Martin Luther King, Jr. Civic Center

Berkeley, CA | historic
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A simple yet elegant renovation and seismic upgrade preserves the legacy of Berkeley’s landmark civic center.

Drawings showing the natural ventilation scheme for the Civic Center

A seismic upgrade and interior renovation have transformed Berkeley’s landmark 1940’s Civic Center building. The historic building exterior and lobbies were preserved, and new meeting spaces were added to the penthouse level. Energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems, operable windows, and use of green products have resulted in light-filled, comfortable work spaces which were once a maze of metal-partitioned offices. The six-story structure is base isolated and can move 30 inches in any direction to absorb seismic forces with minimal damage or disruption of operations.

Awards

Berkeley Design Advocates Award of Excellence

American Public Works Association, Northern California Chapter Distinguished Project Award

California Preservation Foundation Craftsmanship & Preservation Technology Award

AIA East Bay Merit Award

Savings By Design Efficiency Integration Award

AIA California Council Honor Award

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association Special Commendation

Project Stats
  • Client

    City of Berkeley

  • Size

    77,000 sf

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