A LIVING LANDMARK
More than just a beautiful building, BERKELEY CITY CLUB in California is a haven of hospitality. Designed by one of the most influential architects in American history, it invites members to enjoy the best of the past and present.
Tucked away on a quiet street near the University of California, the Berkeley City Club is one of the state’s most distinctive architectural landmarks. Often referred to as the “hidden jewel” of Berkeley, the building is a rich tapestry of history and design, brought to life by the legendary architect Julia Morgan, one of the first and most influential female architects in the United States.
The Berkeley City Club was originally founded in 1927 as the Berkeley Women’s City Club by a group of civic-minded women. Its mission was to create a centre for social, cultural, recreational, and family activities in the East Bay. The club commissioned Julia Morgan, already renowned for her work on Hearst Castle and more than 700 other projects, to design the building. Morgan was the first woman licensed as an architect in California, and her vision was both groundbreaking and elegant. The building she designed for the women of Berkeley would become one of her most celebrated works.
Completed in 1930, the Berkeley Women’s City Club gained over 4,000 female members. Fast forward nearly a century, past the opening to all genders in 1963 and the designation as a city landmark in 1975, the building is still a private club, hotel, event venue, and historical site, welcoming guests from around the world who come to admire its beauty, learn from its past, and experience its unique ambiance.
A timeless gem of Californian architecture
The architecture of the Berkeley City Club is an exquisite blend of Gothic and Moorish Revival styles, infused with a California sensibility. Drawing inspiration from Medieval cloisters and Mediterranean villas, Morgan created a space that feels at once grand and intimate. From the outside, the building’s colonnaded arches, wrought iron balconies, and climbing ivy suggest a European villa, while the interior features vaulted ceilings, intricate tile work, decorative columns, and leaded glass windows. The details reflect Morgan’s mastery of proportion and her commitment to craftsmanship. The public spaces – lounges, libraries, ballrooms, and dining rooms – are interspersed with tranquil courtyards and gardens, creating a harmonious flow between interior and exterior.
One of the club’s most breathtaking features is the indoor swimming pool, surrounded by arched windows and ornate tiles – a serene space that feels like a hidden Roman bath. The pool has become an iconic symbol of the club, admired for its timeless beauty. Members and guests are welcome to take a dip in this historic gem.
The club thrives as a private club and public boutique hotel, offering 38 guest rooms for visitors seeking a unique and historic stay. It is also a sought-after event venue for weddings, receptions, meetings, and performances, with its architecture providing a memorable backdrop for any occasion.
California cuisine
Inside the club’s elegant surroundings is Julia’s Restaurant and Lounge, a culinary gem that pays homage to Morgan’s legacy not just in name, but in atmosphere. With high ceilings, arched windows, and period detailing, the dining room offers an ambiance that is refined and inviting. The menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced California cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and creative interpretations of classic dishes.
The adjacent bar and lounge provides a cozy, historic setting to enjoy craft cocktails, regional wines, and small plates, making it a favourite among both guests and locals for everything from casual drinks to celebratory dinners. Whether dining under the warm glow of chandeliers or sipping wine by the fire, visitors to Julia’s are treated to an experience that reflects Berkeley City Club’s dedication to hospitality and heritage.
The club has a choice of bedrooms on the upper floors, all featuring elegant architectural details, vintage furnishings, and thoughtful touches. Many rooms offer views of the surrounding city, hills, or the club’s serene courtyard. While honouring its historic roots, the club ensures a restful stay with modern essentials, making it an ideal retreat for visitors to the city. Members and visiting members from affiliated clubs enjoy exclusive access to all the club’s amenities, including a private social lounge, and the iconic indoor pool. The club’s lounge, gardens, and library are popular spots for members and guests to relax, read, or socialise. The club hosts a calendar of events throughout the year, ranging from speaker series and live music nights to wine tastings, art exhibits, and seasonal celebration. From engaging with members, exploring the arts, or simply unwinding in a beautiful setting, the club offers a rich and welcoming experience.
For visitors to Berkeley, stepping inside the club is like stepping into another world – a quieter, more graceful era, lovingly preserved and still vibrant with life. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Berkeley City Club offers a rare opportunity to experience California’s cultural heritage at its finest.
Berkeley City Club
2315 Durant Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94704, United States
Tel: +1 510-848-7800
reservations@berkeleycityclub.com/a>
www.berkeleycityclub.com