The Upper Floor

One Woman's Ascendance

The Upper Floor (TUF) is known among many in the San Francisco BDSM community (and beyond) as the go-to place for a truly kinky time. (Master) Peter Acworth founded Kink.com in 1997, and acquired his 200,000 square foot building, the site of a former National Guard armory, nine years later. He has since transformed the armory into a stunning tribute to The Story of O, giving life to Pauline Réage's fantasy slave-training community. In 2009, The Upper Floor streamed its very first live show, The First Supper. Since then, a substantial group of paid members of Kink.com tune in for many parties, my favorite of which are Stefanos' Brunches, which have become a staple of TUF since their first show in January 2010.

I was quite nervous before going to The Upper Floor for the first time. I had only been introduced into the public BDSM community just over a month before attending my very first event at Kink.com. My submissive training had only just started, and my understanding of protocol was still new and incomplete. I had not yet become familiar and friendly with many people in the scene, and felt unworthy. Once my Sir and I arrived, however, much of my fear melted away. The atmosphere was quite relaxing, the crowd was welcoming, and it didn't take long for the cameras to fade into the background. Sir and I figured that our first time there would just be to meet people and feel it all out, but with a little encouragement, we played in that very first visit, and have played every time since.

Even after a number of parties, the setting still takes my breath away; TUF feels so extravagant, yet so cozy. The house slaves are all beautiful, and I've been getting to know them all as I continue to attend The Upper Floor. There's never any doubt that at The Upper Floor, you're in good company. The only part that really takes any getting used to is Margaret. She is the computerized voice that reads off the posts made by Kink.com members who are watching The Upper Floor stream live. It's nice to hear from the members, but even they will make fun of Margaret. I usually don't notice her once things really get started, and I completely forget about her (and much of everything else) when I am lost in a scene. I especially love that I can live out my exhibitionism, knowing that I am naked and beaten before a live audience both in person and on camera.

All in all, attending The Upper Floor is an exclusive privilege where I feel safe and welcome to explore my own and others' kinks and fantasies. Toys and all the necessary accessories are never in short supply, and there's always something sexy to do or watch. As soon as I leave, I find myself counting the days until my next visit.