Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects Renovates UC Berkeley Creekside Center for Disability Program

Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects has completed the renovation of the Creekside Center at UC Berkeley, transforming it into a centralized, accessible hub for the Disabled Students' Program (DSP). The 8,800-square-foot building, located in the heart of the campus, now houses over 4,000 students and consolidates DSP staff previously scattered across multiple locations. The renovation prioritizes seismic safety and universal design, guided by eight impact areas inspired by The Kelsey's 'Housing Design Standards for Accessibility and Inclusion' and Arizona State University's report on housing for adults with autism spectrum disorders. Key features include a sensory-low room near reception, ramped corridors connecting east and west wings to mitigate a five-story height difference, unisex bathrooms with the building's first elevator (operable by foot or wheelchair), and MERV-13 filtered ventilation. Finishes are free of VOCs, phthalates, and PFAs. The design process involved inclusive engagement with DSP leadership, staff, students, and campus stakeholders, using 3D-printed clay models, alt text, and captioned meetings. Chris Downey of Architecture for the Blind and Ben Perez, UC Berkeley's Physical Accessibility Compliance Manager, served as advisors.