Temple Nightclub Owner Acquires Historic Oakland Greyhound Site

The owner of San Francisco’s Temple Nightclub, Paul Hemming, has purchased the historic Greyhound station located at 2103 San Pablo Avenue in Oakland for $2.3 million. This acquisition marks a significant step in revitalizing the long-vacant property, which has been closed since 2021. Hemming aims to transform the site into a vibrant venue for pop-up events, a rooftop bar, and potentially multifamily housing.

The historic Greyhound station, originally built in 1926 as the Union Stage Depot, features striking Beaux-Arts and Renaissance architectural details that have diminished over recent decades due to neglect. Following the closure of the station, the building saw a brief resurgence in 2022 when underground party promoters utilized the space. However, the city intervened, shutting down these events due to safety concerns.

Hemming confirmed the acquisition during his appearance on the “Social AM SF” podcast in April 2025, describing the building as “a unique opportunity.” He expressed a vision for creating “a whole indoor-outdoor immersive entertainment complex in downtown Oakland.”

Plans for Renovation and Development

The renovation project will unfold in several phases, as detailed in plans submitted to Oakland’s Planning and Building Department. The first phase focuses on essential structural repairs, including upgrading walls and bathrooms, as well as adding a new electrical room.

In the second phase, Hemming plans to introduce a retractable patio trellis, an elevator, and the much-anticipated rooftop bar. The interior will be redesigned to accommodate retail and food service spaces, featuring a new kitchen and bar amenities. The final phase could see the addition of multifamily housing, although specific unit numbers have yet to be disclosed.

Axis Architecture, renowned for its work in luxury residential and hotel projects in the Bay Area, has been engaged for the design. Principal Cory Creath confirmed their involvement, noting that the project is still in the preliminary stages and undergoing “due diligence.”

Hemming’s background in the Bay Area nightlife scene is notable. He previously ran a record store and music studio in Oakland before launching Temple Nightclub in SoMa in 2007. Although the nightclub closed in 2024 due to financial difficulties, it has recently reopened, as indicated on its website. While no nightclub has been officially proposed for the Oakland site, Hemming’s extensive experience in nightlife, which includes venues in Los Angeles and Denver, leaves the possibility open.

A New Cultural Anchor for Oakland

The location of the Greyhound station in Uptown Oakland, a neighborhood that has outperformed downtown in post-pandemic recovery, positions it as a potential new cultural anchor for the city. Hemming’s plans could contribute significantly to revitalizing Oakland’s nightlife and cultural scene, making it an appealing destination for both locals and visitors.

As the project evolves, it will be interesting to see how Hemming’s vision unfolds and how it shapes the future of this historic site in Oakland. The community eagerly awaits the revitalization of a landmark that has long been a part of the city’s history.