Masonic Center, Oakland, California

♦ 2003 Partners in Preservation Award, Oakland Heritage Alliance
♦ 2004 Small Firms, Great Projects Exhibit, American Institute of Architects, San Francisco
♦ 2005 Preservation Award, California Preservation Foundation

The 1926 Rockridge Masonic Temple is a classic Renaissance Italian palazzo and was designed by a local firm well known for their revival-type buildings. Between 2000-02, Jerri Holan & Associates, AIA, completed a major restoration of the historical building’s neglected facade and designed signage more appropriate for the building’s historic character. Most of the original architectural elements are extant, having been repaired or replaced with careful craftsmanship. In addition, through the application of the State Historical Building Code, accessibility improvements were installed to satisfy ADA requirements which included a non-conforming entry ramp in order to preserve the building’s historical facade. The splendor of an Italian palazzo was finally expressed in vibrant Tuscan colors and the building remains one of the more spectacular community/commercial buildings along ever-bustling College Avenue.