.jpeg "Three Embarcadero Center scenes with landscaping")
The Embarcadero Center, the massive office-and-hotel-and-outdoor-shopping complex that shapes part of the Financial District's skyline, has very thoughtful and colorful landscaping.
.jpeg "Upstairs Embarcadero bridge plus hydrangeas and other white-pink-red flowers")
Historically I recall the landscaping was simpler: there were many hanging vines from the planter boxes that were built into many of the structures, notably including the Hyatt Regency atrium. The outdoor patios in the lower-rise shopping center have always had many green elements, but in recent years those have been refreshed pleasantly. Succulents now dominate the rooftop patios, with a mix of blooming shrubs, colorful maples, and other small trees.
.jpeg "Views from Embarcadero patios of other downtown SF buildings plus landscape plants")
I worked on contract at a few law firms in or near the complex, and so spent time there decades [cough] ago. I find the new landscaping quite appealing, along with the updated outdoor furniture. It's a pleasant area to spend with some takeout food, an iced coffee, and/or a book on a warm day.
.jpeg "View of spiral Embarcadero ramp and fountain plus landscape succulents")
Along with the rest of the Financial District, which hasn't recovered from shifts in working patterns since the peak of the COVID pandemic nor from corporate landlord fantasy rents (a problem in the City that officials are reluctant to address), I'm hoping this area is lively again in the future.
