FAQs from the Question Box
We’ve collected your questions about our new home and shared the answers here. Thank you for your continued patience and flexibility as we fine-tune the space and create the best possible experience for everyone!
Will there be disabled access via the courtyard gate?
We’re actively coordinating with our contractors to confirm ADA access and will share updates as soon as we have a clear timeline.
Will there be bicycle parking with bike stands in the side yard of Camelia?
Yes! The metal structure on the north side of the building will serve as a secure bike cage. Members who need access will receive a keypad code once it’s operational.
In the meantime, you’re welcome to lock your bike to any public fixtures near the building (such as poles and the metal fence).
The wheels are way too close together. My knee touches the person next to me and I have short legs.
We’ve heard you! We’re working on adjusting the layout to create more space and comfort between wheels.
There is nowhere to put your tools and larger pieces in the student wheel area. The wood shelf is way too narrow.
We’re exploring options, including adding a rolling rack to use during classes to provide more workspace.
The ventilation noise is very loud - can it be improved?
We’re aware of the issue and are working on a solution. Our top priority is maintaining proper air ventilation to keep the studio safe and dust-free while reducing noise levels.
The polished concrete floor is very slippery when wet! It seems hazardous.
The floor will become less slippery with use. A light sealant layer is wearing off as foot traffic increases, improving traction over a short time.
Will there be an acoustic barrier…?
Yes! As we continue settling into the space, we’re developing thoughtful sound-mitigation plans to improve acoustics throughout the studio.
Where do we hang backpacks and coats?
There are currently hooks on all the wooden Handbuilding Tables, and we’re adding more throughout the studio for everyone’s convenience.
Can there be a loading zone in front of the main door…?
A loading zone has been designated near the front entrance, and we’re waiting on curb painting. Rolling carts are also available inside the front doors — feel free to use them to transport materials to and from your car, and please return them near the front desk afterward.
Can I park in front of the roll up door on the corner/next door?
Please do not park in front of the roll up doors at the corner of 4th and Camelia, as those are the entrance to Eric Powell’s metalwork studio.
Please put shelves by the front door. Unloading is so hard…
We’ve installed a sturdy metal shelf near the front entrance to make unloading easier.
When will the soda kiln be ready?
The soda kiln rebuild depends on coordinating the kiln yard layout. We’ll share more details soon. In the meantime, the Raku kiln is up and running for class use, and member bookings will open shortly.
Will the spray booth be up and running any time soon?
The spray booth setup is underway and should be ready for use soon!
When will there be bulletin boards by the bathrooms?
Yes! We’ll be installing a bulletin board in the bathroom hallway soon. In the meantime, check out the two active Community Boards — one in the Handbuilding Room and another in the hallway near the Glaze Wall.
I'm interested in perhaps doing a work exchange? If ya'll still do that…
We do offer Work/Trade opportunities on an as needed basis. If you’re interested, email operations@berkeleypottersstudio.org. Openings vary throughout the year, and right now we are looking for support with janitorial work and front desk.
Could we have a clock in the Members' space?
Yes! Clocks have been installed in both the Member and Student areas.
Will there be phone charging stations (so your app doesn't die)
Charging stations will soon be available in the Community Space. Coming shortly! We’re also looking at installing phone chargers in the Member and Student areas.
Hello! Noticing that there are no bins for menstrual products in the restrooms!...
Thank you for catching this! We’re adding bins for menstrual product disposal in all restrooms, along with product dispensers for everyone to use.
I suggest a monthly ‘appreciate the staff’ potluck.
We love this idea! Staff appreciation events are typically coordinated by the Potters’ Studio Community Support Group. Email lauraleaverton@gmail.com if you’d like to participate or help organize. Stay tuned for an announcement soon.
Can there be a non-digital way to access the space?
We’re exploring options for alternative access methods that don’t rely solely on smartphones. Our current digital system supports safety and accountability, including the ability to alert or contact you quickly in case of emergency.
Could there be a 'Staff on Duty' board at the front desk?
Yes! We’re bringing back the “Staff on Duty” board soon to make it easy to know who’s available for support.
New stool fund?
We always welcome in-kind donations! We’re also working to add more adjustable stools to improve comfort and accessibility for everyone.
Can you add a reminder ‘do you have your app key’ sign on the door…
We’ll be adding a “Remember Your Phone” sign near the front door to help prevent after-hours lockouts.
Can you ask us Members to do a work day(s) and help? We want to help.
We greatly appreciate your kind words and willingness to help. The transition has come with its challenges. It’s been a lot of work for everyone involved and we know change can be hard. As we continue to settle into the new space, we’re planning some Member Clean-Up Days and a community meeting. We’ll share the dates very soon and would love to have you join us.
What will go in the courtyard and the kiln yard?
The courtyard will serve as a quiet, phone-free space for relaxing, eating, and connecting. We’ll announce when it’s open for use. The kiln yard will also host clay storage, soda and Raku firing, and outdoor wet sanding areas.
Could we establish an area outside for clay items that need to dry?
We’re reviewing this request and will update members once we’ve identified a suitable solution.
Please get a rolling pin with "loose handles" wider than 12"
Great suggestion — we’ve got more coming!
Please consider taping the dip times onto the lids of each bucket - the glaze wall is located quite a distance from the actual glaze buckets.
We’re working with the team to make this improvement. Staff are coordinating to ensure dip times are clearly labeled. Thanks for the suggestion!
The bathroom sink faucet is too short to wash hands and forearms without touching the sink itself. Very difficult washing wrists, forearms.
The bathroom sinks are designed for handwashing only. For washing up arms and removing clay, please use the longer-spout faucets in the main studio rooms. These sinks include clay traps and are better suited for cleaning off clay materials.
Where is the Doom Shelf?
The Doom Rack is located near the exit door to the kiln yard.
Is there a Lost and Found?
All lost items are stored safely in our Lost & Found box at the Front Desk, with valuable items kept in a secure location. If you find something, feel free to drop it at the front desk with a quick note!
Thanks for reading all the way through! More questions will be added soon. If you have questions or suggestions, please email us HERE. You can also drop questions/suggestions into the box at the the front desk.