Vernacular Architecture in Northern California
Vernacular architecture is construction of, by, and for the people using local designs and materials. Starting with Alta California's Spanish and Mexican pueblo and ranchero adobes, this course moves you through time, examining Gold Rush wood frame dwellings, prefabricated houses shipped from around the world, cottages housing industrial workers, modest bungalows for working and middle-class households, industrially produced ranch houses, and the modern detached and multi-family houses built for California’s expanding post WW II population. Discussions will explore refinements correlating with economic development and shifts in demography.
Each session will be enriched by extensive use of drawings, maps, and archival photographs.
Faculty Bio
Linda L. Day is an Emeritus Professor of City and Regional Planning, Cal Poly – San Luis Obispo, where she teaches and writes about California’s architectural history. She earned a Masters in Architecture from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and a PhD from the Maxwell School of Syracuse University.
This is an In-Person, Livestreamed + Recorded Course
- Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 365, at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
- Classes will also stream live simultaneously, and be video recorded
- Fee assistance is available if cost is a barrier. Learn more.
Schedule Highlights
- Course starts on Monday, Sept. 18 and ends on Monday, Oct. 23
- Classes meet for six weeks, two hours per session (1–3 PM)
- Videos will post on Fridays in Member Dashboards
- All course materials, including videos, will be available to view and enjoy through Dec. 31
Member Praise for Linda Day
God bless, Linda Day — honest, inquisitive. and delightful. Great class!
The professor's enthusiasm was infectious. Her diligence in following up on questions was appreciated.