Cloyne Court Hotel, student housing cooperative in Berkeley, California, USA
Cloyne Court Hotel is a building on the National Register of Historic Places in Berkeley, California, designed in 1904 by architect John Galen Howard in the First Bay Tradition style. It stands out for its extensive wooden shingle covering, making it the largest surviving shingled building in the city, with originally thirty-two separate suites and an unusual design where the upper floors of the wings do not connect to each other.
The building was constructed in 1904 for the university community and initially served as a hotel for visiting scholars and academic guests. A major fire destroyed much of Berkeley in 1923, but the Cloyne Court survived due to its sturdy wood construction and was later acquired in 1946 by a student cooperative that continues to operate it today.
The building is named after Bishop Berkeley from Cloyne, Ireland, reflecting its connection to the university's founding vision. It has served as a student cooperative since the mid-20th century and evolved from a male-only residence into an inclusive community that emphasizes shared living and mutual support among residents.
The building is located near the university campus and is easily accessible on foot with clear signage from the street. Keep in mind that it is a private residential space with limited public access, so it is best to appreciate the exterior or check in advance about any visiting opportunities.
The building is covered with murals created by generations of residents, giving it a personal artistic character that continuously evolves over time. It was also known for hosting performances by later-famous bands like Green Day and Rancid in its courtyard and music rooms before they achieved international success.
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