North of the Berkeley Hills, nestled in the quiet community of Kensington, lies an abandoned mansion called the Blake House. At the end of a short gravel path, the home historically reserved for the UC president lies behind two wrought iron gates.
But the 13,200-square-foot Mediterranean-style mansion — with an elevator, two kitchens, a massive library and panoramic views — has been empty for more than five years.
— dailycal.org
1 Comment
Wow. What a beautiful home, through its simplicity, massing, respect for its vernacular, and even its siting, with that long linear pool in front as a counterpoint to the home's width.
I wonder if some UC president was trying to make a statement by NOT living there. There have been governors who have chosen not to live in their states' governor's mansions to make a statement that they are more like the general populace. I believe Jerry Brown of CA did that the first time he was governor of California, but he's quirky to begin with.
They should open this home and its grounds for tours and tell UC presidents to get a nice apartment in funky Berkeley instead.
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