South Berkeley, otherwise known as the Lorin District, is a colorful area that’s rich in history. Home to antique stores, a thriving arts district, and a growing number of restaurants and cafes, it remains one of Berkeley’s most accessible and affordable neighborhoods.
Development began in the 1870s, when farmland was turned into residential neighborhoods. Most of the homes — primarily one- and two-story Victorians and colonial revivals — were built before 1939, so the streets are wide and the architecture detailed.
The Ashby BART station makes getting around easy and hosts an ongoing flea market on the weekends. It’s also home to the [Ed Roberts Campus](http://www.edrobertscampus.org/), a collection of agencies and nonprofits that serve the disabled community, named after a pioneer of the disability rights movement. You’ll also find the [Ashby Arts District](http://www.epicarts.org/ashbyarts/), which includes critically acclaimed theater group the [Shotgun Players](http://shotgunplayers.org/) and the [Black Repertory Group](http://www.blackrepertorygroup.com/).
The temple of fresh produce, Berkeley Bowl, isn’t far away. But if you prefer having your meal prepared, you’ll find an array of restaurants and cafes.
The [Spiral Gardens Community Food Security Project](http://www.spiralgardens.org/), [Sunday brunches at the Thai Temple](http://www.yelp.com/biz/wat-mongkolratanaram-berkeley), and an impressive [Tool Lending Library](http://www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org/about_the_library/neighborhood_branches/tool_lending_library/) are further evidence of South Berkeley’s community-oriented vibe and livability. It’s a great place to put down roots.
