The Magnificent 110-Year History of Oakland's Rotunda Building
The Rotunda Building, located at the corner of Broadway and 16th in downtown Oakland, CA, is a magnificent example of Beaux-arts architecture. The building has had quite a journey since it was first built in 1913, serving as the site of several department stores before falling into disrepair and closing in 1980. Despite a failed redevelopment effort in the late 1980s, the City of Oakland stepped in and acquired the building in 1993. It sat empty for several years until the Oakland-based Rotunda Partners development team began a historic restoration project in 1999. This grand building now stands tall as a reminder of Oakland's rich history and architectural legacy.
The Rotunda Building's storied past dates back to the early 20th century when it was initially built for the Kahn's and Joseph's department store. As per its name, the Rotunda Building features a massive rotunda that rises vertically into the air, with intricate plaster detailing on the walls and ceilings. It was the most expensive department store of its time that extended across two full city blocks in downtown Oakland. Over the years, the building changed hands, with Capwell's and then Emporium Capwell's taking over occupancy of the store.
As the years passed by, the building suffered neglect and eventually closed in 1980. In an effort to breathe new life into this historic structure and revitalize the downtown area, a private investor set out a redevelopment plan in the late 1980s. The plan was to convert the building into a mixed-use facility with retail and office space. However, the devastating Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989 put a stop to the redevelopment efforts.
In 1993, the City of Oakland acquired the building as part of the Frank Ogawa Plaza property. It remained empty for several years until the Rotunda Partners development team brought it to life in 1999. The historic restoration of the Rotunda Building was a massive undertaking that involved the creation of nearly 90,000 square feet of office space, the preservation of over 45,000 square feet of retail space, and the repair and restoration of the structure's elaborate façade.
The restoration of the Rotunda Building was performed via a public-private partnership (P3) that involved four different funding sources. Private equity and a private loan provided the majority of the funding, with $12 million in redevelopment agency funds and federal historic preservation tax incentives providing the remainder of the financing. Through their efforts, the development team ensured that the building's original character and architectural details were preserved, while also bringing it up to modern standards of safety and accessibility.
The Rotunda Building is a testament to the resilience of Oakland's architectural heritage. From its beginnings as a department store to its role in revitalizing downtown Oakland, it has played a vital role in the city's history. Today, it stands as a stunning example of Beaux-arts architecture and a beacon of hope for the future of Oakland. The story of the Rotunda Building is one that demonstrates the importance of preserving our historical structures, and the significant role that public-private partnerships can play in safeguarding our built heritage for future generations.
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