Crews have completed demolition of University Hall and its annex building at 2140 University Avenue in Downtown Berkeley, Alameda County. Our recent site visit shows the parcel is currently graded in preparation for the first of two phases to rise for the UC Berkeley Innovation Zone development, the six-story Bakar Labs for Energy & Materials.
2140 University Avenue construction progress seen from UC Berkeley’s Crescent Lawn, image by author
2140 University Avenue construction progress, image by author
University Hall was completed in 1959 with an originally International Style design by Welton Becket & Associates. The distinctive X-bracing was added across the facade in 1991 by Hansen, Murakami, Eshima Inc. Offices and meeting spaces had occupied the structure for the university until it was vacated in 2023. During a 2020 seismic performance evaluation, the property was deemed a priority for improvement. Crews started demolition last August.
Bakar Labs for Energy & Materials, rendering by Gensler
Bakar Labs for Energy & Materials, rendering by Gensler
Phase one will see the completion of Bakar Labs for Energy & Materials, a five-story academic facility designed by Gensler. The structure will contain a mix of wet laboratories and spaces for the purpose of supporting “startups rooted in chemistry, material sciences, and rapid instrument prototyping, propelled by artificial intelligence and machine learning,” according to UC Berkeley Capital Strategies’ press release.
Phase two, named the Innovative Genomics Institute and Bakar Labs, is expected to support startups focused on health and agricultural applications of genome editing technology. Weiss / Manfredi Architects will be the lead designer, with DGA as the executive architect. Landscaped courtyard space will be added between the two structures as a public open-air amenity to further the nurturing of community and collaboration.
UC Berkeley Innovation Zone North Building, rendering by DGA and Weiss/Manfredi
UC Berkeley Innovation Zone North Building view from Oxford Street, rendering by DGA and Weiss/Manfredi
The first phase is expected to open in 2028, with phase two planned to start next spring and be completed by 2029. Further demolition is expected ahead of phase two for two landmarked buildings along University Avenue, the Ernest Heron Building and Martha Sell Building. Turner Construction is listed as the general contractor.
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Thank goodness. That stump has been such an eyesore for far too long. Neighbor next door proves they could’ve gone a little taller, but the replacements look to have some good quality. Hopefully construction will be swift.
I wish they had stacked the proposed north and south buildings, since they appear to have similar uses, and then used the other half of the site for housing.
Agreed, really disappointing they went for only six stories right on the intersection of campus and University.