TOOLBOX

Architectural Styles in the East Bay

Architecture affects the use and enjoyment of a home through the flow of the floor plan and the incorporation of natural light.  It can also directly impact the strength of the underlying structure.  In addition, good architecture can create value through style, charm and character.  For home sellers, the more you know about your home’s architectural style, the more effectively you can market your property.  For home buyers, knowing the details of good home design can help you develop an eye for enduring value.  By remaining sensitive to their home’s intrinsic style, nearly every homeowner can maximize the value of home improvements.

For a quick course in architecture styles, take a tour around the East Bay. You'll see classic examples of Arts and Craft, Italianate and Tudor homes, bungalows ranging from Spanish Revival stucco to post-Victorian Queen Anne, and just about everything in between.  More recent influences include classic Ranches, Mid-century Modern and Contemporary homes.  Notable Bay Area architects include; Julia Morgan, Bernard Maybeck, Walter H. Ratcliff, Jr., John Hudson Thomas, Roger Lee, William Wurster and Albert Farr.

To learn more about East Bay house styles, click on the following links.

Architectural Style Guide

The Getty Arts and Architecture Thesaurus

Architectural Styles of America

The Arts and Crafts Society

The Art Deco Society

The California Office of Historic Preservation

The California Preservation Foundation

The Alameda Architectural Preservation Society

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association

The Berkeley Historical Society

Oakland Heritage Alliance

The Old House Web

The Victorian Alliance of San Francisco