In San Francisco, Side A is a bistro, listening bar, and weekday coffee and doughnut joint (serving The Coffee Movement) from Jim Skånberg, architect, fabricator, and principal of 280 West. Skånberg tapped Studio AHEAD to convert what was previously the Universal Cafe into a music-centered venue that preserves some of the old cafe while ushering it into its new life. Working with cofounders of Side A, Parker and Caroline Brown, Studio AHEAD remastered the former elements of the space with sleek and steel layers.

The original space featured custom galvanized steel, a marble bar counter salvaged from a historic bank, and bentwood plywood banquette seating. These elements were preserved by Studio AHEAD and added onto with custom elements, fabricated by 280 West.

This includes a new brushed aluminum DJ stand that begins the space, as well as the metal shelving behind it which organizes the record collection. In the same metal finish, the team designed chairs and barstools whose minimal form mixed with steel materiality creates a sculptural quality. They’re finished with padded cushions of industrial waxed canvas to soften the metal motif.

Other elements help warm things up. Rounded acoustic panels crafted from upcycled sheep’s wool felt are installed along the banquette wall to both soften the use of the metallics and bolster the vinyl experience. A raw canvas curtain also lends a soft touch while helping to divide the space.

The mix of textiles, metal, and wood coalesce into a warm yet chic interior. It’s finished by an equally contemporary sound system by Good Question Sound and 280 West, utilizing a Tub’s Audio speaker.