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Maudelle Shirek Building Old City Hall

5
·3 reviews·Berkeley, United States

A historic architectural marvel by Julia Morgan, once a women's club, now a hotel and event venue.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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C H

Maudelle Shirek Building Old City Hall

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic architectural marvel by Julia Morgan, once a women's club, now a hotel and event venue.

5
(3 reviews)

"Fascinating building designed by Bakewell and Brown and completed in 1909."

Vertical photo
TIP

Architectural Appreciation

Take time to admire the intricate details of Julia Morgan's design. :camerawithflash:

Event Venue Insights

Check for events or weddings to see the building in its full glory. :party_popper:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

5 · 3 reviews

Type

Event Venue

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Julia Morgan's Architectural Gem

Julia Morgan's Architectural Gem

Entire Building

Explore a stunning 1930 design by Julia Morgan, once a women's club, now a hotel.

Historic Bakewell and Brown Design

Historic Bakewell and Brown Design

Exterior

Admire the 1909 craftsmanship of Bakewell and Brown, a testament to early 20th-century architecture.

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Planning Your Visit

A Glimpse into History

This historic building, designed by Julia Morgan, offers a unique architectural experience. Originally a women's club, it now serves as a hotel and event venue. Plan your visit to appreciate its design and legacy.

Seismic Retrofit Considerations

The Maudelle Shirek Building, while historically significant, is noted to be in need of seismic retrofitting. Visitors should be aware of this information when planning their visit or events.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Event days
Why
Experience the venue's purpose
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Designed by Julia Morgan as a women’s club in 1930, and now open to all as a hotel. #architecturelovers #hotels #weddingvenue @Berkeley City Club
@anyanring
21.2K likes • 113.5K views

Architectural Appreciation

Take time to admire the intricate details of Julia Morgan's design. :camerawithflash:

Event Venue Insights

Check for events or weddings to see the building in its full glory. :party_popper:

reddit.com

I made a list of the 21 things you need to do and experience in Berkeley before you graduate, as well as my bucket list for the surrounding area--also good if you're looking for ways to spend spring break! Have I left anything out?

\[I wrote up the original version of this on my [blog](https://elbow99.substack.com/p/21-things-to-do-in-berkeley-before) if you want to read it there--it's more nicely formatted and also has pictures\] # The 21 Essential Things To Do * **Go thrifting at Urban Ore** *This…

reddit.com

Visiting Berkeley! Any tips on accommodation and sightseeing?

Hey guys and gals! I'm from Sri Lanka, and I plan to visit Berkeley in September for Porter Robinson's Second Sky concert in Cesar Chavez Park. I'll be there for 3 days as I'm on a tight budget and accommodation is pricy. I'll be AirBnb'ing, so if y'all have any cheaper…

Historical Context

Learn about its past as a women's club and former school district office. 📚

reddit.com

is Berkeley worth a walk through?

i'll be visiting from overseas and in the general area, is it worth walking through and checking out the college? i have had some friends do the 'main' tourists one but don't know anyone who's visited Berkeley; thoughts?

Tips

from all over the internet

Architectural Appreciation

Take time to admire the intricate details of Julia Morgan's design. :camerawithflash:

Event Venue Insights

Check for events or weddings to see the building in its full glory. :party_popper:

Historical Context

Learn about its past as a women's club and former school district office. 📚

What Travellers Say

5
(3 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are fascinated by the Maudelle Shirek Building's rich history and striking architecture, particularly Julia Morgan's design. While its past as a women's club and school district office is noted, its current function as a hotel and event venue is also a point of interest. Some reviews mention the need for seismic retrofitting, a practical consideration for the historic structure.

"Fascinating building designed by Bakewell and Brown and completed in 1909. Also known as the Maudelle Shirek Building, and its last occupants were the Berkeley Unified School District. I believe this building is in need of a seismic retrofit to meet modern safety standards"

Ton T

""

Amarjit Singh

""

J Walter Toney II

What People Like

Historic architecture
Julia Morgan design
Event venue appeal

What People Dislike

Seismic retrofit needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Maudelle Shirek Building is located in Berkeley, California. Public transportation options like BART and local buses are readily available. Parking in the area can be challenging, so consider ride-sharing or public transit for easier access. Reddit

Street parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak hours or events. Some nearby parking garages might offer options, but it's advisable to check their availability and rates beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the building's exterior and public areas may be possible, but it primarily functions as a hotel and event venue. For specific access or tours, it's best to check with the venue directly or look for scheduled public events. TikTok

As the building is now a hotel and event space, there are no fixed public opening hours. Access is typically granted to hotel guests or during scheduled events. Inquire with the venue for specific visiting times. TikTok

While not always advertised, some architectural tours might include the Maudelle Shirek Building. It's recommended to search for local architectural walking tours or contact the venue to inquire about potential guided visits. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you can admire Julia Morgan's distinctive architectural style, which was originally designed for a women's club. The building has also served as the Berkeley Unified School District headquarters. TikTok

Information on accessibility can vary as the building has transitioned uses. It's advisable to contact the current management of the hotel or venue to confirm specific accessibility features and accommodations. Reddit

The Maudelle Shirek Building showcases the architectural brilliance of Julia Morgan, designed in 1930. It also features elements from its earlier design by Bakewell and Brown, completed in 1909. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, the building's unique architecture offers excellent photo opportunities, both inside and out. Capture the details of Julia Morgan's design and the historic facade. TikTok

Focus on the intricate stonework, the grand entrance, and any interior architectural details visible to visitors. The building's historical significance makes for compelling shots. TikTok

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Maudelle Shirek Building Old City Hall (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide