Modernism, Born in California: Glen Park BART Brutalism [Tour]

Tour Ernest Born's Brutalist masterpiece, Glen Park BART Station—bold concrete, landscape & public art converge.
About this Event

Join us for an in-depth tour of Ernest Born's Glen Park BART Station in partnership with the UC Berkeley Environmental Design Archive and their current exhibition . Described by one former SF Heritage President, Michael Buhler, as “the best example of Brutalism in San Francisco, if not the entire Bay Area,” and Born’s self-declared “masterpiece.” No matter who describes it, the Glen Park BART Station is a standout example of how architecture, landscape, and infrastructure come together in the Bay Area. Ernest Born, working closely with the architectural firm Corlett & Spackman and landscape architect Douglas Baylis, designed the station, which is a strong example of mid-century modern civic design shaped by both artistic vision and the city's needs.

One of the tour highlights is Born’s eye-catching marble mural, an abstract piece that energizes the station’s interior and reflects his lifelong interest in art and materials. This work reflects his belief that public spaces should improve everyday life through beauty and good design.

During the tour, we’ll look at the station’s design, how it fits into the landscape, and its role in the history of Bay Area modernism and public transit.

Accessibility: This tour is fully accessible. Check BART Station elevator status here.

Transportation and Route: This tour starts at the Glen Park BART Station Plaza at 2901 Diamond Heights Boulevard. It is recommended that you use public transportation or rideshare to reach the starting point.

Agenda
Overview of Ernest Born's Involvement in BARTs development and graphics design
Tour of the Glen Park BART Station plaza, landscape and exterior architecture
Tour of station's interior, including Ernest Born's marble mural.