First Church of Christ, Scientist, Berkeley

The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Berkeley, was constructed in 1910 and is acknowledged as architect Bernard Maybeck’s masterpiece. Maybeck’s unique marriage of varied styles produced a building of charm and elegance.

In October 2007, ARG Conservation Services was retained by the Friends of the First Church to conduct materials conservation and research in the Church. Conservation work involved the repair of a fallen column capital in the Auditorium, the cleaning of the fireplace face, analysis of Bubblestone and concrete, and matching metal finishes for new steel brackets. Recommendations were also made for repairing the wood veneer on a cabinet in the Fireplace Room, removing watermark stains on interior wood timbers, and visually integrating surface finishes in the Auditorium floor. Brief housekeeping guidelines were provided for optimal upkeep of the Church.

Extensive laboratory and on-site testing were conducted to understand the most efficient conservation methods and materials to use in the treatment phase.