The 5M project is a four-acre development at Mission and 5th Streets that includes the historic San Francisco Chronicle Building and incorporates affordable arts and community spaces as part of its core. A critical aspect of the plan focuses on welcoming (rather than displacing) the surrounding existing community.

The site will accommodate a number of cultural and community-based anchors including Tech Shop, Intersection for the Arts, and The Hub (a co-working space focused on social impact). 5M will also include two new residential buildings and an office tower totaling 1.8 million square feet.

Volume developed a brand and website that embodies 5M’s values and helps convey the project as a place of vibrancy and openness, with porous property boundaries that are welcoming to the existing neighbors and new residents alike, facilitating greater social and professional exchange. The website provides the philosophy behind the development and tales of its rich past and future plans.

5M is often held up as an example of how real estate development can be more equitable and sustainable, contributing to an overall community and not just adding more space. Our branding and website had a part in helping tell that story and then hold the developers to the standard set out by the project.