Editor’s Note: This article is a review and includes subjective thoughts, opinions and critiques.

Daunting towers. Bubbling fountains. Elegant libraries. Welcoming gates. 

Both Stanford and UC Berkeley’s campuses are stunning and impressive, standing as prime examples of architectural mastery. Every day, visitors and students walk through the campuses of both schools, inspired and motivated by the buildings that surround them. But ultimately, which campus’ architecture reigns supreme?

Architectural style 

Though the rival schools are close in proximity, architectural styles differ distinctly at Stanford and Cal. Neither campus is fully homogenous — consider the visual differences between Main Quad and the Computer and Data Science building. But generally speaking, Stanford’s campus is a mix of Mission Revival and Romanesque style. Meanwhile, Cal’s campus was built in the classic Beaux-Arts style.

Berkeley’s style, though grand and impressive, can appear cold and unwelcoming. Characterized by jagged structures and gray coloring, it’s a sharp contrast to Stanford’s architecture, which utilizes more warm tones, sandstone and rounded shapes. The softer architectural features of the Farm create an inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the Bay’s clear skies while equalling the grandeur of Cal’s architecture.

Because of this, Stanford beats Cal in overall architectural style. 

Hoover Tower vs Sather Tower 

While the famed Hoover Tower reigns over Stanford’s campus, Berkeley is dominated by Sather Tower, also known as the Campanile.

Hoover Tower stands 285 feet tall, its sandstone color making it a perfect match with Main Quad. More than a tool for timekeeping, it’s also a guiding landmark for students as they traverse the vast campus … but it can’t equal Berkeley’s tower, which comes in at a whopping 307 feet.

Sather is the second-tallest freestanding clock and bell tower in the world. With its granite walls and steel frame, Cal’s tower is undeniably majestic  — and visible for miles beyond the Berkeley grounds. 

By a margin of 22 feet (and some visual prowess), Berkeley beats Stanford in the tower category. 

Main attractions 

Each campus has unique landmarks that draw in visitors and students alike. 

As you drive up the palm tree-lined Palm Drive on your way to Stanford’s campus, the glistening Memorial Church (“MemChu”) slowly emerges from the horizon, welcoming students home with grandeur. Its exterior mosaic, titled “Progress of Civilization in America,” depicts historical scenes and figures in vivid colors and with precision. Built by Jane Stanford in memory of her husband, Leland, MemChu is arguably the most beautiful place on campus. 

The Doe Memorial Library is a notable piece of architecture on Cal’s campus. It serves as a campus centerpiece and a key example of the Beaux-Arts style. The columnated exterior is dramatic and impressive — a reflection of the academic progress happening within its walls. 

Lying at the heart of campus, Stanford’s Main Quad and Memorial Court are some of the most memorable parts of the Farm’s architecture. The arches surrounding  the quad are iconic, and within the three-acre quad are vast open spaces that are simultaneously intimidating and inviting. Walking through the quadrangle on their way to class, students are invited to contemplate the immense history these walkways hold. 

A similarly well-trafficked area on Cal’s campus is the landmark of Sather Gate. Before Berkeley’s grounds were expanded to Bancroft Way, the bronze gate used to represent the entrance to campus. Sather isn’t only an appealing display of the Beaux-Arts style, but also a cultural hub: for decades, Berkeley students have congregated and protested beneath its arches. 

Ultimately, when comparing these four main campus attractions, Stanford clears Cal all the way. Main Quad and Memorial Church are awe-inspiring as independent structures  — but they’re also emblematic of the University as a whole. 

Final tally 

From Cal’s Campanile to Stanford’s MemChu, both Stanford and Berkeley’s campuses have their standout features. But at the end of the day, Stanford’s architecture comes out on top, beating Cal in overall style and main attractions. Stanford’s architecture is incredibly grand for a college campus, while also fitting perfectly into sunny California.    

If you are traveling to the Bay or considering campus architecture in your college decision, Stanford is the clear winner.