The Studio Building, Berkeley, California
historic place
The Studio Building, located in Berkeley, California's Alameda County, stands at 2045 Shattuck Avenue. This historic place was constructed in 1905 by real estate investor Frederick H. Dakin. Its design is attributed to his son, Clarence Dakin, or possibly his niece, Edna Deakin. Upon its completion, the five-story masonry structure was one of Berkeley's earliest and, for a short period, the tallest building in downtown. The fifth floor was specifically designed for artists' studios and galleries. A tile mosaic of an artist's palette, created by Frederick's brother, Edwin Deakin, marks the entrance. The building played a role in Berkeley's cultural development. It hosted the city's first art exhibit in 1906. In 1907, it became the founding site of the California College of the Arts. A historical marker, erected in 1982, commemorates its significance as the first home of the California College of Arts and Crafts. For much of the 20th century, the building operated as the Berkeley Hotel. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. The Studio Building is historically significant for its early architectural presence and its role in Berkeley's artistic and educational history.