Yes, it is always a good idea to discuss your research objectives with an archivist and determine if the collection has useful material before making arrangements to visit. Contact the archives for more information - designarchives@berkeley.edu.
CAN I STOP BY?
Because we have limited staff time and want to assure both our researchers and our records the attention they deserve, we are open by appointment only.
WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?
We are located at 280 Bauer Wurster Hall on the University of California, Berkeley campus. See campus maps for details.
DO YOU ONLY HAVE RECORDS OF FAMOUS ARCHITECTS OR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS?
No, we have records of many architects and landscape architects who practiced in the Bay Area. Much of the built environment of the area was created by prolific designers who are not widely known by name. Refer to our list of collections for specific individuals.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION ON MY HOUSE, GARDEN, OR OTHER BUILDING I'M RESEARCHING? CAN YOU TELL ME IF MY PROPERTY WAS DESIGNED BY A FAMOUS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT OR ARCHITECT?
We can check our database to see if we have records relating to a particular project. However, our project files are not always comprehensive lists of a landscape architect or architect's work. When contacting us, please provide us with the following information if possible:
I DON'T KNOW THE NAME OF THE ARCHITECT WHO DESIGNED THE BUILDING I'M RESEARCHING. CAN YOU HELP ME?
Our collections are organized by the architect (or landscape architect), so without that information, we cannot locate drawings and other materials. We suggest you use some of the tools covered in this guide.
CAN I MAKE COPIES OF THE MATERIAL?
We can make copies for you, but the size, condition, and medium of the material may limit what types of reproductions can be made. Almost all material can be reproduced digitally. You may also take snapshots with your own camera. For fees please contact us.
CAN I CHECK OUT THE MATERIAL OR GET IT THROUGH AN INTERLIBRARY LOAN?
Because our collections consist of irreplaceable original material, researchers may use items only in our secure reading room.
DO YOU HAVE RECORDS RELATING TO THE COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN?
The Archives has records relating to administrative activities, publications, and the records of Dean William Wurster. Although neither comprehensive nor systematic, we also hold records for the Departments of Architecture and Landscape Architecture & Environmental Planning including student work and activities; publications, photographs, and departmental records. Teaching files can be found both in the Department records and in the collections of individual designers. The other repository for records related to the College or its Departments may be held by the University Archives, which is the official repository for the University’s administrative records.