The San Francisco Planning & Urban Research Association (SPUR) opened its brand new, multi-functional venue space, the SPUR Urban Center, in May 2009. A bright and airy venue designed by renowned local architects Pfau Long Architecture, this $18 million facility offers a beautiful space for hosting events of all kinds.

Located just steps from the Moscone Convention Center, this contemporary, green building is scheduled for Silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Innovative elements such as cabinetry made of crushed sunflower seed husks and countertops made of recycled newspaper are incorporated into the Urban Center, though all green building features of the Urban Center are purposefully understated. Commenting on these features, writer Kenneth Caldwell notes, “SPUR will be the kind of place where sustainability is integrated into policy, or everyday life… anticipating the future, when green design isn’t showcased; it’s a matter of fact.”

Rental of the entire Urban Center offers exclusive use of three event floors including: the 1st floor Gallery, 2nd floor Public Assembly Hall and 4th floor Penthouse with terrace, providing over 3,840 sq feet of space for up to 425 guests. The Urban Center can also be rented on a floor-by-floor basis and is ideal for intimate or large-scale, dynamic meetings and events.

With creative planning, the space can also be utilized for much larger groups. SPUR partnered with Cappa & Graham, Inc. to transform a public thoroughfare and neighboring nightclub into a seamless and elegantly branded block party for the Urban Center Grand Opening party, accommodating 2,500 guests. Photos from the stunning Urban Center Grand Opening party are available here.

For Urban Center rental information: Brendan Lange, SPUR Urban Center Manager, rentals@spur.org or 415-644-4296. Media Contact: Kelly Hardesty, khardesty@spur.org.