Co-Owner of Midway to Open the 'Four Seasons' of Gay Bathhouses In SoMa

Kevin Born is set to open Maze SF, a luxury gay bathhouse, in SoMa, San Francisco, capitalizing on a recent law that permits such establishments. The bathhouse will feature a modern design, operating 24 hours a day, and aims to provide an experience comparable to high-end spas. This venture comes after the repeal of a 1984 ordinance that restricted gay bathhouses due to public health concerns during the AIDS epidemic. The new ordinance, approved in November 2024, signals a shift in public health policy regarding queer spaces. Born, who operates Ashbury General Contracting & Engineering, has noted the absence of proper queer bathhouses in San Francisco, with only one non-sexual option available.

He has conducted market research to evaluate demand, citing daily visitor numbers at similar establishments. Born, identifying as straight, plans to manage the business through a hired operator. Currently, the timeline for Maze SF's opening remains uncertain as city approvals are awaited.