Conversations on the Lake

The History of The Lake Merritt Hotel with Owner Randy Berger 

Randy Berger, the man who saved The Lake Merritt Hotel from the wrecking ball, will bring the fascinating history of our building to life. The Madison-Lake Apartments that opened in 1928 were part of Oakland's urban living boom. Since then, the building has grown and changed along with the city. It’s been a nightlife hotspot, broadcast headquarters, restaurant, event space, apartment building, hotel and now independent senior residence. You’ll hear how an endless cast of characters has made this beautiful building’s story a very human one.