“The Waffle.” That’s what students waggishly dubbed Bunche Hall soon after it opened in 1964. But UCLA administrators had grander plans for this 12-story building.
Welcome to Bunche Hall. It is an imposing structure on the UCLA skyline. This building is more than just concrete and glass. It’s a tribute to a remarkable alumnus and a hub of social science scholarship.
Bunche Hall was named for Ralph Bunche. He was a 1927 graduate of UCLA. Bunche was an acclaimed political scientist, intelligence officer, civil rights activist, and diplomat. In 1950, he received the Nobel Peace Prize. He earned it for his work mediating a truce between Israelis and Palestinians.
Ralph Bunche’s journey is inspiring. He worked in the United Nations for many years. In 1955, he became Under-Secretary-General. Bunche also participated in important civil rights events of the 1960s. He was a close ally of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Bunche Hall’s design is noteworthy. When built, it had approximately 229,000 gross square feet. That is 185,217 net usable square feet. The cost was $7,862,684. Its elevated concrete base resembles Le Corbusier’s Unite d’Habitation in Marseilles, France.
Originally, Bunche Hall contained 854 rooms. Most served as faculty and departmental offices. These offices were for scholars in the social sciences. In 2013, the departments of Political Science, Economics, History, Geography, Communication Studies and cultural and gender studies programs occupied space here.
The building has two sections. There is a 12-story tower and a shorter office section. They join to form an “L.” The Palm Court sits between the two sections. This four-floor courtyard features palms and smaller plants.
Look closely at the 12-story tower. Notice the different window designs on the north and south facades. The south facade features square windows. Their casings float against the building’s rectangular mass. These earned the building its nickname “The Waffle.” The windows use specially designed glass to filter sunlight. This reduces air-conditioning costs.
At the building’s dedication on May 23, 1969, Bunche shared something personal. He hadn’t initially wanted to attend college. His grandmother insisted. Once enrolled, he gained purpose, confidence and self-respect.
UCLA, he said, was where it all began. College was the genesis and the catalyst for him. Bunche Hall stands as a testament to his legacy. It also shows the power of education. It is a place where future leaders and thinkers are shaped. Remember Ralph Bunche’s words and strive for peace and understanding.