Any one who works or shops by the waterfront will be privy to a new perk. Embarcadero Center is unveiling their new Urban Patios (UPs) in the heart of the Financial District. The unique, retreat spaces will provide an ideal setting for meeting up with your friends, reading, grabbing a bite, catching up on work away from the office and even better – a little refreshing R&R.

The UPs were designed by RTKL who eloquently balanced city elements and nature. IPE decking, concrete and anodized aluminum are a beautiful backdrop for lush greenery. Plants are thoughtfully placed, creating living screens that provide smaller, more intimate nooks in the patio space.  A colorful landscape stands out against the cool, hard materials with mix of brightly Variegated Bamboo, Japanese Red Maples and Horsetail complimented by the white bark of the Pyramidal Birch. The area is highlighted with pendulous branches, layers of softness, color and texture that make for tranquil surroundings. In Two and Three Embarcadero Center, glass art panels will be installed showcasing maps of San Francisco, the work of artist Troy Corliss of Truckee, California.

The Embarcadero Center Urban Patios were created to encourage extended visits to the area, all week long. The buildings are home to large retail stores, unique boutiques, restaurants and services located throughout the four iconic buildings. Embarcadero Center is creating an active, social environment in the Urban Patioswith live music, entertainment, culinary events and more on weekends to compliment the already bustling traffic throughout the week.

The grand opening of the Urban Patios will take place on Thursday, September 26, 2013 from 4:30 - 8:00 p.m. Embarcadero Center’s Ultimate Urban Patio Party will include live music, flat screen game viewing, food vendors, beer/beverage gardens and more. The public is invited to join the fun, experience the excitement first hand and see what’s UP at Embarcadero Center.