We’ve been fortunate to host many Sofars in stunning spaces chock-full of magical ambience, even before a single note is played. From ornate chambers to simple, spectacular rooms, here are 7 Sofar spaces that drop our jaws, every time.
1. The Queen’s Gallery in Buckingham Palace | London
Talk about a house show. We’re perpetually pinching ourselves to have been able to bring Sofar into the art gallery of Buckingham Palace–home of the British Monarch–as part of a partnership with Tiqets. The space typically showcases a rotating set of pieces from the royal collection, roughly 450 works at a time. What a treat to hear music amidst those red walls and stunning exhibits.
The Queen’s Gallery in Buckingham Palace in London, photo by Jane Jimenez
2. Whales of Iceland Museum | Reykjavik
That’s right, we’ve gotten the chance to sit beneath life-sized models of whales bathed in soft blue light hearing dreamy tunes (note, the museum also offers interactive installations and virtual reality experiences). It doesn’t get more soothing than this.
Whales of Iceland Museum in Reykjavik, photo by Ben Gruber
3. Worcester College Chapel | Oxford
A gem tucked into the Worcester College campus. The 18th century chapel is detailed to the nines, peppered with unexpected flourishes (keep an eye out for a unicorn and blue whales). A delightful place for intimate live sounds, indeed.
Worcester College Chapel in Oxford, photo by Ian Wallman
4. Haveli Dharampura | Delhi
This three-storied boutique hotel aims to evoke the architecture and grandeur of the Mughal era, with antique balconies and jharokhas, overlooking Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. It’s truly breathtaking.
Haveli Dharampura in Delhi, photo by Tanya Nath
5. Vigadó Concert Hall | Budapest
Nestled on the Eastern bank of the Danube, this 19th century concert hall balances elegance with intimacy, gathering people together on the floor beneath intricate craftsmanship and wide, warm chandeliers.
Vigadó Concert Hall in Budapest, photo by Diana Komroczki Gergō Matos
6. Lytehouse Studio | NYC
A favorite of our New York City spaces. This Williamsburg spot is a blank canvas that’s always shapeshifting into vivid textures, soaking our surroundings in rich color. It’s downright immersive.
Lytehouse Studio in New York City, photo by Rachel Ansley
7. Washington National Cathedral | Washington D.C.
The Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington– aka, Washington National Cathedral. The space is a Neo-Gothic design, and the second largest church in the US. It’s a special feeling to hear voices arch and hit the high ceiling.
Washington National Cathedral in Washington D.C., photo by Kill The Light Photography