Revel Architecture & Design, San Francisco: Passionate, Committed, Fun.

When the firm started back in 1994, they were just a couple of San Francisco-based designers with a passion for doing standout work. They have become one of the top firms in the Bay Area with clients throughout the country and world. In 2017, they changed the name from NicholsBooth to Revel to better reflect the collective and approachable spirit of the firm. 

The current studio, based in the heart of the Financial District, is blessed with some gorgeous bones: concrete ceilings, wide open floors and lots of natural light. Many of their clients and vendors are located nearby, which is an advantage, while easy access to bars, restaurants and public transportation makes it easy for employees to have fun and play. “Even though we do business all around the Bay Area, our core focus is San Francisco,” says COO Scott Clement. 

Revel is a horizontal organisation and as such, everybody is in the same studio together, in an open desk environment. “We believe that people do their best work when they’re happy and that 

creating a culture that fosters relationships, mentorship, career goals, as well as encouraging work-life balance to enjoy the great city we live in, that directly relates to doing great work,” says Clement. Those that have lived in the Bay Area for a longer time, who can show them the hidden spots, give new team members an informal induction to the city. “We encourage our staff to own the culture of the firm and they have created events like Inspiration Fridays, which involves going to a place of inspiration as a group and just enjoying it,” says Clement. “Revel is a place where you can define what you want to do, be given a wide latitude to explore, and push boundaries.”