Text and Photos: ANZOR MAKHARADZE

With the opening of new BAMPFA (Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive) we have one more good reason to visit Berkeley. Located in the downtown Berkeley, new museum building,  designed by New York–based firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro will catch your attention from the distance with its smooth futuristic shape and bright LED screen.  New attachment literally embracing the old printing plant build in 1930's, creating a beautiful and thoughtful juxtaposition of styles. The DS + R brought much needed diversity to the overall conservative architecture scene in the Bay area. The visitat BAMPFA starts from the inside where the building of the museum is a piece of the art on its own.

Once inside, you will find yourself in an area full of light and art space. While browsing the galleries and enjoying the art do not forget that you are at the Pacific Film Archive as well. Check the schedule and perhaps you will find something interesting to see later at night.  The pleasant surprise is the opening hours of the museum whose doors stay open till 9 pm. Don’t forget to stop by at Babette on the second floor for coffee and some treats. Find your seat next to the window above the street and observe the slow flow of local life.

The next stop is the recently renovated and re-branded "Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel". Take a 30 minute walk from the museum through the University of Berkeley campus or request a short ride from one of the car services. After you walk through the tastefully decorated lobby enjoy the drink at the lobby bar with the spectacular view of the bay. Take a spa menu on a way out to plan your future retreat.