Beginner’s Mind Temple/City Center Renovation

Update 2025

We are pleased to announce that the renovation project was a success! Deep bows to everyone who was instrumental in bringing this vision of Beginner's Mind Temple to fruition, including the renovation committee, Studio Bondy, Herrero Builders, the SFZC sangha, volunteers, and donors, and all the many others who contributed their time, energy, and resources.

Among the accomplishments are:

  • Replaced the lobby entrance with a new Welcome Center, creating more space to greet
    guests and invite them in to share the Dharma
  • Restored and made major improvements to the antiquated communal bathrooms
  • Added a new ramp to the bookstore, a chair lift, and an elevator for better accessibility throughout the building
  • Installed heating and ventilation in the zendo
  • Installed new floors in basement
  • Fresh paint in the kitchen, dining room, Buddha Hall, hallways, and staircases

We can’t wait for the sangha to experience the new Welcome Center on the main floor, flooded with sunlight through four grand arched windows that until now have been hidden. This open and inviting area will be available for all to share a cup of tea, host book readings, and more.

The renovation will be celebrated in 2025 with some planned gatherings, so we hope you will join us at an upcoming party and rededication in the new year. For updates, please subscribe to Sangha News, our weekly newsletter.


In January 2024, San Francisco Zen Center will embark on a large, much needed renovation project at 300 Page Street (City Center). We are very excited and grateful to finally take the steps necessary to care for this precious 100-year-old building. The project includes, among many things, a new Welcome Center, complete bathroom restorations, and adding a new ramp and elevator for broader accessibility.

300 Page Street will be closed for renovation beginning in 2024; however, the zendo will remain open so that zazen, Dharma talks, classes, and workshops can continue. Practice/affinity groups will also continue to meet. The aim is to maintain the continuity of our Dharma offerings throughout the renovation year, both in person and online.

Beginner’s Mind Temple Renovation Project

An introduction and overview of the project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions and details of the project and how it affects those visiting and staying at Beginner’s Mind Temple/City Center.