August 4, 2022

Better than ever: Faculty Club reopens after renovations, preserving what Bruins have cherished

In 1959, the UCLA Faculty Center opened its doors to faculty who by paying their 50-cent monthly dues could enjoy meals and a home away from home on campus. But the center was and always has been much more than this. For decades, it has provided an array of services that includes hosting conferences, banquets, receptions and meetings.

During its last 63 years, the mid-century modern building nestled just west of Hilgard Avenue has helped enhance collegiality and good relationships among faculty and staff across the entire campus. Within its glass walls and amid its open floorplan, colleagues have shared lunches, entertained prospective hires, rented out space for meetings (even weddings), and celebrated holidays with family and friends.

While many have cherished the Faculty Club for its time-capsule-like feel, by 2016 the building needed structural and infrastructure work. The roof was leaking, roots invaded the pipes, electrical systems needed upgrades, and the air conditioning and heating systems struggled to keep the temperatures comfortable. In addition, over the years, the building had been modified with finishes and lighting fixtures that contrasted with mid-century California Ranch style.

The club also needed painting and new carpets, and the outside trellises needed replacing. But a renovation had to be done carefully to preserve the integrity of the building and its contributions to campus culture and history.

So in 2019, UCLA allocated $10 million to the UCLA Faculty Center Association’s board of governors to cover an extensive infrastructure upgrade and seismic reinforcement of a few areas. Thanks to contributions from donors, including professors Donald and Sherie Morrison, more than $3 million has been raised to address a variety of improvements.

“This building is deeply beloved by many across campus, but time certainly took its toll,” said Chancellor Gene Block, who was enthusiastic to support the renovation project. “The renovations were needed to ensure that many more generations of Bruins would be able to enjoy the space and use it to forge strong bonds.”