Number 7 Dec 1995-Jan 1996

New life is being breathed into downtown Berkeley, and the pulse is at the Oxford Center. Considered the "Gate to the University" by Soheyl Modarressi, president of Oxcent, Inc. and the man whose vision made the center a reality, this new complex has attracted dynamic businesses and has clustered them at one convenient corner: Oxford and Center.

Ken Winfield was selected as general contractor. His interest was in creating a building that would "harmonize with the surroundings and restore the original architectural look to the corner."

Designed by Berkeley Architect Robert Nebolon, the style is a blend of the old and the new architecture of the 1990's inspired by the 1890's. Its "L" shape and uplifted towers were features of a building that stood on the spot a century ago. The charm of the old is seen in the stucco facade, canvas awnings, glass storefront and Spanish roof tiles. The spirit of the new reveals itself in sleek glass, crisp detailing and in the lively ribbon affect of the upper windows. A whimsical clock with sun & moon hands enliven the corner of the building.

Winfield Construction began the project in the heart of winter. but was completed in June in spite of three rainy months. Oxford Center is the first commercial building built from the ground up using design guidelines adopted last year for downtown Berkeley.

Pasqua's Coffee opened in June, followed by Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream, La Cascada Mexican Grill, Sweet Spot (news stand) and Drink (a juice bar). Tokyos Bliss (sushi) opened in October, and the last space is now being finished for Off Center (an art gallery) Soheyl Modarressi is pleased with the results. "We've created an inviting atmosphere. A meeting place on this side of the campus that wasn't there before."

City of Berkeley officials have encouraged this new vitality by approving plans for widening the sidewalks and planting trees. It is hoped that the pulse of the Oxford Center will become a heartbeat that will stimulate a rebirth of downtown Berkeley.

An independent study found that about 15,000 people pass the corner daily. Oxford Center has given them a reason to stroll, pause, or sit for hours with BART and bus connections close by on Shattuck, its an easy reach for shoppers, professionals and students as well.

Winfield Construction feels privileged to be a part of the reemergence and revitalization of downtown Berkley and of being instrumental in creating a quality project where the charm of an older age meets the spirit of the new in an atmosphere of conviviality.

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