Donald and Helen Olsen House

The Donald and Helen Olsen House is a modernist residence in the Berkeley Hills elevated on steel columns with extensive glass walls. The open rooms are filled with natural light throughout, while the structure sits strategically against the hillside.

Architect Donald Olsen, who studied under Walter Gropius at Harvard University, designed this International Style residence in 1954 as his own home in Berkeley. The house was built during a period when modern architecture was transforming California's building culture.

The house displays a mural by artist Claire Falkenstein, showing how fine art was woven into the architecture itself. Visitors can see how this artistic touch shapes the spaces and connects with the mid-century modern design throughout.

The house sits near John Hinkel Park and is surrounded by mature trees that shape the setting. Its hillside location means visitors should expect steep paths in the area.

The main floor is elevated on supports creating covered parking underneath, an inventive feature for its era. This raised position also means the original views of San Francisco Bay have shifted over time as surrounding trees have grown.

Location: California

Architects: Donald Olsen

GPS coordinates: 37.89611,-122.27250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:41