I have a lifetime membership to Mechanic's Library so I recognized the stairway and re-read the article to confirm which office building he was talking about.

I get what you mean about old buildings in SF (living in a drafty victorian is not as pleasant as a modern flat), but I love that particular building. I always take the stairs instead of the elevator, striding two steps at a time, whether going up or down, they're not slippery. The bathrooms are indeed funky but pleasant enough, and even ventilated with an open window. The oak tables by the huge multistory windows on both library floors are a wonderful work environment, with decent outlets and wifi.