Hub SF

A modern third place in downtown San Francisco

Vision

Hub SF aims to be a modern third place, reviving the cultural and social fabric of San Francisco and beyond. We aspire to showcase how vacant commercial real estate may be up-leveled into sustainable spaces for connection and community.

Space

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Community area

Daytime living room — evening events, music, & culture

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Pop-up F&B/retail

Local vendors providing artisanal goods & experiences

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Boutique stays

Affordable, mid-term accommodation
Progress
Initiative
Status
Notes
1
Present the Hub SF concept to the city stakeholders, get feedback, understand what kind of support we may get
In progress
Open
2
Find minimum two popup shops/stores
Done
Open
3
Find a hostel or coliving provider to help run the accommodation space
In progress
Open
4
Run “customer developer interviews” to define personas and pain points
In progress
Open
5
Find a suitable property that can be easily adapted to our needs
In progress
Open
6
Architecture and interior design drawings of Hub SF
Not started
Open
7
Find funding / sponsorship
Not started
Open
There are no rows in this table
If you can help with the initiatives above, please don’t hesitate to !

About

Hub SF is a nonprofit initiative focused on converting vacant commercial real estate in San Francisco into community owned, 24/7 third places. It is born out of a desire to provide sustainable spaces for connection, learning, flexible work, and community building. We build in public, sharing our journey openly so others can replicate our model in their own neighborhoods. Read more in .

Contact

To join the Hub SF initiative, help with contacts and suggestions, suggest a partnership, or simply ask questions, email us at .

FAQ

What is a third place?

Third places are cafes, tea rooms, libraries, lobbies, and other cozy spots where people gather to chat, read, or work, while engaging with the community.
Their characteristics are:
Neutral ground - people may come and go as they please
Act as a leveler with no social or economic status barriers to entry
Conversations are lively and engaging
Accessible and conveniently located
Regular patrons contribute to the atmosphere, newcomers are welcomed
Wholesome character of the environment maintains a cozy feel
Playful mood, encouraging longer stays and repeated visits
A home away from home, providing a sense of belonging and ownership

Why are third places important?

Third places are essential for civil society, democracy, and civic engagement. They contribute to our well-being, and inspire ideas, art scene, and civic-mindedness.

What are some examples around the world?

, San Francisco: Membership-based space supporting curiosity, co-creation, & collective flourishing
, Traverse City: Real estate cooperative integrating wellness, arts, family and food
, Jersey City: Co-owned cafe, bed & breakfast, and a live music venue
, Bangkok: Community-first mall with a food hall, open work-friendly areas and sustainable design
, Fukuoka: Hotel with open library and community work and reading space
, Belgrade: Open cafe and breakfast venue, turning into event space by night
: A “cultural department store”, including exhibition spaces, movie halls, assembly rooms, restaurants, and books. showcasing a new type of public space.

Where can I read more about third places?

Here are some links to learn more about third places and their importance:


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