San Francisco, CA

Onsen Spa has transformed a former auto repair shop into an intimate Japanese spa and tea parlor in San Francisco's Tenderloin district. The design beautifully integrates warmth and tranquility into the industrial brick construction, softened by reclaimed redwood elements and retained skylights that fill the space with natural light.

The reconstructed facade features large window fenestration and a complementary entrance, inviting guests into a serene environment. The spa includes six private treatment rooms and a luxurious bathing area with a pool, showers, a sauna, and a steam room. At the front, the tea parlor and kitchen offer a welcoming space open to both spa guests and the public, providing a unique blend of relaxation and community.

This adaptive reuse project seamlessly combines industrial charm with Japanese-inspired aesthetics, making Onsen Spa a distinctive retreat in the heart of San Francisco.

Photography: Mark Wickens