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Neutral ground - people may come and go as they pleaseAct as a leveler with no social or economic status barriers to entryConversations are lively and engagingAccessible and conveniently locatedRegular patrons contribute to the atmosphere, newcomers are welcomedWholesome character of the environment maintains a cozy feelPlayful mood, encouraging longer stays and repeated visitsA home away from home, providing a sense of belonging and ownership
, San Francisco: Membership-based space supporting curiosity, co-creation, & collective flourishing, Bangkok: Community-first mall with a food hall, open work-friendly areas and sustainable design: A “cultural department store”, including exhibition spaces, movie halls, assembly rooms, restaurants, and books. showcasing a new type of public space.
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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
Community area
Daytime living room — evening events, music, & culture
Pop-up F&B/retail
Local vendors providing artisanal goods & experiences
Boutique stays
Affordable, mid-term accommodation
Progress
Initiative
Status
Notes
Present the Hub SF concept to the city stakeholders, get feedback, understand what kind of support we may get
In progress
Open
Find minimum two popup shops/stores
Done
Open
Find a hostel or coliving provider to help run the accommodation space
In progress
Open
Run “customer developer interviews” to define personas and pain points
In progress
Open
Find a suitable property that can be easily adapted to our needs
In progress
Open
Architecture and interior design drawings of Hub SF
Not started
Open
Find funding / sponsorship
Not started
Open
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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:
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?
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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