Masonry Magazine October 1967 Page. 10
THE CANNERY
An overall view of the Cannery project behind its colorfully painted protective fencing erected for the duration of the reconstruction period. This view gives some indication of the immense scope of the conversion.
Overlooking Fisherman's Wharf, was one of them. After the 20's, time and neglect exacted its toll and the building fell into disrepair. For the last 15 years its empty windows have peered at the waterfront as if to say: "I don't fit in anymore, but I am part of an exciting past."
The "appeal" of this great old cannery building scarcely made an impression on anyone until 1960 when she was slated for some hard knocks from the wrecker's ball. However, the Cannery's nervous "brick-down" never came off. A group of Designers and Architects, led by financier Leonard Martin, undertook a historical 'rescue' in the form of a plan to rebuild the structure and create a complex of shops, arcades, garden terraces and restaurants. All will constitute a new enterprise called "THE CANNERY' when completed.
The problems of converting this almost ancient block-square building into a dazzling and bright dining and shopping arcade were enormous. Architects Esherick and Church had to start from scratch. Their bold solution is a lesson for any city wishing to retain part of its architectural history in a modern setting.
In order to keep the building's exterior brick charm (which was virtually all that remained at this point!), all interior wooden beams, braces, and floorings were ripped out. Heavy steel, which offered a maximum of support at a minimum of space, replaced the wood. Then it was tied into the building's brick shell. Interior spaciousness was furthered by cutting a pedestrian mall, open to the sky, through the complex dividing it into two halves connected by elevated walkways.
The next objective was the integrating of the old brick with the new brick wall additions such as the gracefully arched patio-arcade and walkway leading to the second level. Sand mold common brick did the trick... and suddenly 1966 looked like 1900 again.
The main floor will house food concessions. The second level, pictured here, will feature elegant shops; while the third tier offers view-sweeping restaurants with outdoor garden terraces.
masonry
Nov./Dec., 1967
10