Gothic architecture
UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall and its gothic inspirations
Gothic architecture is the foundation of UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall, which was a popular university style for buildings in the late 19th and early 20th century.
UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall exemplifies the university gothic style by weaving gothic elements into the red-bricked theme of UCLA buildings to create the unique structure Bruins know and love today. The main portion of the building resembles a castle, complete with a seven-story tower and four intricately carved stone spires at the top.
Because of its iconic look, UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall has been featured in famous Hollywood films; its distinctive university gothic architecture makes it a prime filming location for filming movies like Legally Blonde (2001) and the newest period film by Christopher Nolan, Oppenhiemer (2023).
Those looking to rent UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall for the next unique film setting, wedding or other events can reserve the space through Associated Students UCLA (ASUCLA) Event Services through the link below.
More about UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall’s design
UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall’s architectural elements combine to create its iconic castle aesthetic. The most obvious gothic structure in UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall is its intricately carved four stone spires, which occupy the corners of its seven-story tower. The spires, which look as though they might pierce the heavens, make for an impressive image against the bright blue Los Angeles sky.
Pointed arches are also typical features in gothic architecture, and they are present throughout Kerckhoff Hall. The north entrance doorways feature tall pointed arches, and the covered walkway along the Kerckhoff Patio is held up by a system of pointed arches called a rib vault. Aside from their stunning aesthetics, the pointed arches convey a sense of history.
UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall deviates slightly from the traditional gothic architecture for its iconic look, rejecting light-colored stone in favor of the red brick commonly used to build university buildings. This places UCLA’s Kerckhoff Hall firmly in the collegiate gothic style, which serves to renew its relevance beyond its historic inspirations and origins.
