Deservedly named “Berkeley’s most romantic neighborhood” by the Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association, Panoramic Hill (which is also partially in Oakland) encompasses a residential enclave southeast of the university notable for its stunning natural landscape, extensive trail network, unique architecture, and spectacular vistas.
Surrounded by Claremont and Strawberry canyons, Panoramic Hill homes are one of a kind both in their rustic architecture and natural setting, surrounded by ample trees on hilly, irregular lots. Eleven homes in this neighborhood are listed in the State Historic Resources Inventory, including ones designed by Julia Morgan and Walter Steilberg. Some of the most sought-after homes are the simple brown-shingled cottages and bungalows by famed California architect Bernard Maybeck.
There are also a number of unusual contemporary homes, including a Frank Lloyd Wright Usonian house and a recent renovation by California architect Mark Mack that was designed to take advantage of the many commanding views from the hill.
Cars can only access Panoramic Hill by one narrow, winding road, but pedestrians can connect to the university, downtown Berkeley and the surrounding Strawberry and Claremont canyons via a well-connected network of pathways, staircases and trails. Just don’t be surprised if you run into a deer or two.
