RS94109 Space for Experimental Music
RS94109 is a record store located in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco. Hobstetter Architecture Studio worked with RS94109 to renovate the space and update the program to accommodate its expanding role as a cultural center for arts and music. Hobstetter Architecture Studio approached the renovation as a form of architectural archaeology, exposing the hidden building materials and structural skeleton of the 1920’s building technology. The design peeled back layers to reveal patinas on the original riveted steel and brick construction and the ghostly traces of the materials that once concealed them.
RS94109 is a record store located in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco. Hobstetter Architecture Studio worked with RS94109 to renovate the space and update the program to accommodate its expanding role as a cultural center for arts and music. The design included upgrading accessible access, the addition of a cafe and bar to welcome the wider community, the creation of dedicated listening stations, and a counter for record sales and performances. Events at the space include dj sets, live music, experimental video and art performances, and installations.
The floor plan is organized into two basic zones. One zone for coffee and bar and the second area for music and performance. A record display, listening stations, and record racks connect the two zones across the rear of the space, drawing visitors deep into the space.
Hobstetter Architecture Studio approached the renovation as a form of architectural archaeology, exposing the hidden building materials and structural skeleton of the 1920’s building technology. The design peeled back layers to reveal patinas on the original riveted steel and brick construction and the ghostly traces of the materials that once concealed them.
The design reflects the types of music RS94109 is known for: dark, hard, and experimental sounds. New building elements created from concrete and linseed oiled steel were selected for their toughness and imperfect material beauty. They are treated in a manner that expresses the construction, with the welds on the steel counters left roughly ground, and a linseed oil finish that bears the marks of its usage.
The design approach was not only practical to the economic limitations of a community arts space, but also served as a record of the space’s continued history. In an era of San Francisco’s rapid urban development marked by the erasure of creative culture, RS94109 emphasizes its authentic and enduring material place.
RS94109 was founded by musicians Skander Harooni, Sohrab Harooni, and Josh Woods with the goal of creating a space for experimental music in San Francisco. R94109 is committed to serving the underground music community though in-store events, independent distribution, and a wide collection of music. Please visit RS94109 in San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighborhood at 835 Larkin St.
