State of California, Jesse M. Unruh Building Renovation Criteria Documents

The Unruh Building on Capitol Mall is a Classical Greek architectural-style structure with significant historic features and sculptural works adorning both the exterior and interior. The central lobby on each floor is connected by an open marble staircase. Built in 1923, the Unruh Building was designed as the State Treasurer’s Office and has been continuously occupied for 85 years. It is on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Capital Extension District.

Dreyfuss + Blackford Architecture developed the design guidelines to bring another 50 years of life to the building. A large-scale renovation will be done using the Design-Build delivery method and is in compliance with The Secretary of the Interior’s Standard for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

The scope of work includes full existing conditions assessment, user space program, development of design criteria for the building’s skin (which has some alterations inconsistent with the original design of the building), new emergency egress, all new finishes consistent with historic guidelines, all new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and telecommunications systems.