theLAB Emeryville Wins AIASMC Award of Merit
theLAB Emeryville received an Award of Merit at the AIA San Mateo County 2024 Design Awards!
Originally built in 1919 for the Sherwin-Williams Company, this building operated until the mid-2000s as a paint factory. Re-envisioned as a Class-A lab and office space, theLAB Emeryville adaptively reuses the 72,000-sf, three-story brick building, giving a new sense of presence and purpose to a neighborhood anchor.
The jury noted the strategic reuse of the existing structure and praised the new passthrough, saying “The renovation kept the best of the existing building, without excessive modification. The bike and pedestrian passage is a generous and bold move for the public, as well as for the building.”
The interior spaces retain the spacious, textured, and daylight qualities of the original building.
Additionally, DES Associate Mikaela Leo, an accomplished architect passionate about education, community impact, and fostering collaborative, sustainable environments, was honored with the chapter’s coveted Emerging Professional Award!
Dedicated to project success from every angle, Mikaela actively contributes to both project outcomes and financial goals. Mikaela’s proactive approach, anticipating challenges and developing solutions before they arise, underscores her forward-thinking mindset. Her flexibility in working across all our market sectors and willingness to adapt further showcase her can-do attitude.
Beyond her professional contributions, Mikaela has been an active participant in the DES firm culture. She has contributed to redefining the company’s core values, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative work environment. Mikaela has also organized and participated in various social events, including potluck lunches, fashion shows, and networking events. She is a member of the DES’s gardening club, promoting sustainability and wellness within the office.
Juror comments described Mikaela as “thoughtful and energetic, clearly the future of the profession.”
We had a great time celebrating and networking with other design professionals, and are excited to continue to have a strong presence in AIA San Mateo County in 2025!
