Features

Two Berkeley landmarks have been singled out recently for recognition, one a Craftsman creation and the other the embodiment of Art Deco. 

In its March issue, Gentleman’s Quarterly—aka GQ—listed Bernard Maybeck’s First Church of Christ, Scientist, at 2619 Dwight Way, as number six out of 25 of “the most beautiful and important structures in America.” 

Maybeck’s 1910 building was the first landmark recognized by the city (December 1975) and was declared a National Landmark a year later. 

The second honor was bestowed by the Art Deco Society of California on the J.W. Harris house at 2300 Le Conte Ave. The effusive monument to the Art Deco style remains largely as it was designed in 1936 by architect John B. Anthony. The structure was declared a Berkeley landmark in 1976. 

The Art Deco Society will present its award at the society’s 20th annual Art Deco Preservation Ball on April 30. The event will be held at Sweet’s Ballroom in Oakland, which the society honored with a similar award five years ago.