April 09, 2019

1035 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley


The 1909 MacKerricher House at 1035 Shattuck Ave., an early design by John Hudson Thomas, is significant for its sheer mass and balance. As impressive as it is from the exterior, the original interior details are exceptional: The burl redwood paneling in the living room and entry feature a most remarkable graining pattern. The old-growth tree that produced this material was said to have come from Duncan MacKerricher’s property in Mendocino County, which would become a state park. MacKerricher felled the tree at the birth of his daughter, Edith, who lived in the house from the time of her marriage until her death. (GreenBungalows.info)


Our featured home today is an early and exquisite shingle style craftsman by prolific local designer John Hudson Thomas. Thomas is perhaps best known for his later Secessionist structures but he began his career, like many of his contemporaries, working in the First Bay tradition. Even then in his earliest designs, Thomas’ fondness for heavy timbers and exaggerated details is already apparent. Here the public spaces are lavishly wooded with board and batten, boxed beams, built-ins, and a beautiful inglenook. It is an impressive showing from a burgeoning East Bay talent. (Edificionado)

Street View of 1035 Shattuck Ave c. 2018

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