Pivotal bioVenture Partners

Pivotal bioVenture Partners, funded by the global investment platform Nan Fung Life Sciences, is a venture capital group that champions medical therapeutics and platforms.  With a new office secured in San Francisco’s highly desirable South Park, they challenged FENNIE+MEHL to transform an 8,600 SF data center filled only with floor-to-ceiling racks of equipment into an inviting and inspiring human-focused environment. 

Now upon entering, the first impression is that one has arrived in a refined and serene space very much concerned with the comfort and wellbeing of all who enter.  Pivotal’s international management team wanted a modern yet approachable design aesthetic, and F+M created an environment whose entrance feels as if you have walked into a beautifully appointed and welcoming home. There is copious natural light streaming in from three sides, and sleek lines are reflected in the architecture, lighting, and furnishings. Light oak floors and matching doors replaced dingy concrete. 

The staff is made up of scientists, academics, and business professionals who appreciate an environment that supports focused intellectual work and confidential conversations. So numerous glass-wall private offices of various sizes complement multiple conference rooms. The highly visible formal boardroom with its custom millwork credenza also has a handmade walnut wood slab conference table with copper accents repeated throughout the project. Not only is AV management elegantly incorporated into the design of the table, but a seamless wireless user experience guarantees that guest users and clients can present easily anywhere throughout the office.  There is also a short-term incubator office space within the office, so that early stage Pivotal clients can benefit from being just a few steps away.  

The office also perfectly balances supporting the company’s cultural needs of social time and renewal.  An unexpected open lounge right off the entrance is completed by a beautifully appointed kitchen that is the site of many happy hours, team lunches, and client events. 

With a steady stream of businesses coming though their doors to pitch exciting and dynamic ideas – to say nothing of the visiting partners and advisors from all over the world – the quiet elegance of Pivotal’s new offices allows everyone to feel welcome and to want to stay for a while. 

Our offices are certainly fantastic, and boy, it’s amazing what new digs can do for our team’s culture, well-being, and motivation!

Rob Hopfner, RPh, PhD, MBA, Managing Partner, Pivotal bioVentures