National Carbon Company Building
historic place
The National Carbon Company Building, located in San Francisco's South of Market Street industrial neighborhood, is a significant historic place. Designed by architect and engineer Maurice Couchot, the original structure was erected in 1917, with an extension added in 1920. This building stands as a notable example of early 20th-century reinforced concrete industrial architecture in San Francisco. It was commissioned by the Eveready battery division of the National Carbon Company, a leading manufacturer of batteries and lighting products. The design integrated advanced industrial features like a sophisticated ventilation system and reinforced concrete construction, while also incorporating classical ornamentation. Over time, its use evolved. In 1937, the Blake, Moffit, and Towne Company, a paper distribution firm, acquired the original portion, eventually using the entire complex as its headquarters and warehouse until 1981. The building was converted to wholesale showrooms in 1982 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places that same year. More recently, in 2012, Airbnb leased a significant portion of the building. The National Carbon Company Building is historically important for its architectural style, showcasing the blend of industrial function and aesthetic detail prevalent in its era.