The revival of the legendary Esther’s Orbit Room is the brainchild of East Bay Permanent Real Estate Cooperative Director Noni Session. Guided by her vision for this historic site, the project restores a vital West Oakland jazz and blues landmark while introducing new art and dance spaces to the neighborhood’s cultural fabric.
The restaurant, bar, and live music venue will return through a careful integration of original architectural elements within a rebuilt building shell, supported by modern building systems and contemporary stage lighting and sound. The project also includes a gallery and retail space, a yoga and dance studio, and three renovated residential units.
Preserving Esther’s as a cultural touchstone is central to the design. Original fabricated stone from the exterior has been meticulously removed and will be reinstalled as part of the restoration. Inside, historic artifacts—including an antique safe, roll-top desks, and period furnishings—will be prominently featured, reinforcing the site’s layered history.
