Nestled in the heart of Berkeley, California, the Old Berkeley City Hall, also known as the Maudelle Shirek Building, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural elegance. This iconic structure, a beacon of the Beaux-Arts style infused with French Renaissance flair, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike.
The story of the Old Berkeley City Hall begins with its design, inspired by the Town Hall in Tours, France, an architectural masterpiece by Victor Laloux. The building was crafted by the talented duo of John Bakewell Jr. and Arthur Brown Jr., who won a 1907 competition to replace the original Town Hall, tragically lost to a fire in 1904. Completed in 1909, the building has since been a cornerstone of Berkeley's Civic Center, embodying the City Beautiful movement's principles with its grand vistas and prominent public buildings.
In 1977, city offices moved to a new location, and the building was affectionately dubbed the Old City Hall. Its historical significance was further cemented when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 and designated a Berkeley Landmark in 1975. In 2007, it was renamed the Maudelle Shirek Building, honoring the esteemed former Vice Mayor and City Council member.
The Old Berkeley City Hall is a two-story marvel constructed with steel-reinforced concrete, finished with stucco, and adorned with an attic and basement. Its U-shaped design features a semi-circular stair-bay at the rear, with a central section flanked by two smaller wings. The building's symmetrical facade, set back from the street and surrounded by lush gardens, is a sight to behold.
The main facade boasts a broad central stairway leading to a balustraded terrace. The ground floor's round arch openings and wood-framed sash windows are complemented by shallow balconies with classical balustrades. The second-floor windows, now updated with aluminum sash, retain their original elegance with projecting balconies. Six giant order-length ionic columns grace the central facade, supporting a cornice adorned with ornamental dentils and monumental urns.
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One of the building's most striking features is its 60-foot lantern and spire. Rising majestically from the roof, the lantern features a paneled base encircled by a high metal balustrade. An open colonnade supports a classic entablature, crowned by a narrow dome with engaged piers and finials, topped by a beveled spire. This architectural gem is a defining element of the Berkeley skyline.
Inside, visitors are greeted by a broad U-shaped stairway leading to the second floor. The stairway's wrought iron banister is decorated with gold-colored medallions, adding a touch of opulence. The interior walls, ceiling, and columns are masterfully crafted to mimic more expensive materials, with plaster painted to resemble dressed stone and tooled leather. The genuine marble wainscoting in the main hallway adds authenticity, while the scagliola columns imitate marble with remarkable skill.
Despite its age, the Old Berkeley City Hall has undergone minimal alterations, preserving its historical integrity. The main facade's wooden sash windows were replaced with aluminum to maintain the building's original design. In 1950, a rear extension was added to create more office space, subtly blending with the building's overall aesthetic.
Today, the Old Berkeley City Hall stands as a symbol of Berkeley's rich history and architectural heritage. Its walls echo stories of the past, from its inception to its role in the city's civic life. As you explore this magnificent structure, you are transported back in time, experiencing the grandeur and elegance that have defined Berkeley for over a century.
Whether you're a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Old Berkeley City Hall offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Its timeless beauty and historical significance make it an essential stop on any visit to Berkeley, inviting you to discover the stories and secrets that lie within its storied walls.
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