Whittier School
CITY OF BERKELEY LANDMARK
designated in 1984
WHITTIER SCHOOL
Dragon, Schmidts, Hardman and Officer,
Associated Architects, 1939
Chester Bowles, Jr. and Associates, 1994
This reinforced concrete Moderne-style building replaced an 1892 wood frame
school. Faculty of the original school planted the five Coast Redwoods at the
southwestern edge of the school grounds. The structure is notable for its molded
detailing, fluted columns, curved balconies, and rooftop sun deck. Spacious
classrooms with large operable windows expressed an early 20th century emphasis
on the healthful benefits of sunlight and fresh air.
Changes to the building’s Depression-era design occurred during an
extensive structural renovation in 1994. The school was named after
the American poet John Greenleaf Whittier (1807–1892).
Berkeley Historical Plaque Project
2000