Los Angeles Historic Buildings

**HISTORIC BUILDINGS OF LOS ANGELES**
The History of Los Angeles would never be complete without a study of its historic buildings. This is not an attempt to make a comprehensive list of all historic buildings in Los Angeles. That goes way beyond the scope of this website (and my personal abilities!). Despite this site being principally about restaurants and bars, for some reason this page gets the most traffic! These are my favorite places or the places I find most interesting (or to be honest, in some cases I just happened to drive by them).
Alto Nido Apartments, 1851 N. Ivar Ave. Hollywood and the Parva Sed Apartments, 1817 N. Ivar Ave. (Do Not Disturb Residents!) The Alto Nido Apartments. The Parva Sed Apartments	Alto Nido - previously the property of Marie Dressler. Elizabeth Short, the once little known actress, supposedly lived here before she gained fame with her gruesome murder in 1947. She became known as the "Black Dahlia". Her murder was never solved and this remains one of Los Angeles' great conundrums. This was also the setting for the living quarters of the William Holden character in Sunset Boulevard (Joe Gillis). It can be seen in the beginning of the movie. UPDATE: According to Larry Harnisch (who appeared on the City Confidential Show about the Black Dahlia), a leading expert on the Black Dahlia (and soon to released a sensational book which may name the most likely suspect) "While she was in Hollywood in the second half of 1946, Elizabeth Short lived in a private home at 6024 Carlos Way (demolished), at the Hawthorn Hotel on Orange Drive (demolished) and at the Chancellor Apartments 1842 N. Cherokee (still there). I know which apartment it was, but am holding it back for my book. She stayed very briefly at two other places in Hollywood (neither of them the Alto Nido) but I'm holding them back for my book as they have never been revealed publicly." UPDATE II: The myth of Elizabeth Short living at the Alto Nido may be perpetuated, as the Alto Nido is seen in the movie "The Black Dahlia" as a locale where she lived. So see the Alto Nido for Sunset Blvd purposes only I guess. Nathaniel West (born Nathan Weinstein - I guess he wanted to hide his Irish origins) hung out in the Parva Sed (which means "small but suitable") Apartments in 1935 when he wrote "Day of the Locust". West died in a car accident (supposedly due to his wanton and willful negligence), along with his wife Eileen McKenney, near El Centro, California (a small town in the Imperial Valley also known for another momentous event - the birth place of "Cher" - not much happens in El Centro!). Not far from Musso and Frank's, Miceli's, the Pig 'n Whistle, the Pantages, the Frolic Room, Boardner's, the Egyptian theater, the Chinese Theater, the Power House, and the El Capitan Theater.
Alexandria Hotel, 501 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (213) 626-7484	Once the most elegant hotel in Los Angeles (before the Ambassador and the Biltmore were built). Now - long past even faded glory. But memories remain, including the stained glass in the former ballroom and a few decorative details. I often wonder what great things hide behind the drywall of later remodelings. I believe this is where Gloria Swanson met Herbert Somborn. This is where the stars hung out before Hollywood became the film capitol. Above are surviving interior details in the Alexandria Historic shots of the Alexandria in its heyday
The Ambassador Hotel (Myron Hunt -1921- closed 1990 - Demolished 2006), 3400 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA Except for the shell of the "new" Coconut Grove - this is now all gone. The Ambassador (and the Coconut Grove) just prior to demolition. Photo taken from the Gaylord Apartments by E. Shamie. This relief at the outer gate of the Ambassador site still stands (at least for the moment). The above matchbook images were generously donated by Larry Cole. Collection of Bronwen B. Collection of Sandra Z.	It opened its doors in 1921 ten minutes before Auld Langsyne was played on New Years Eve. Closed in 1990 and demolished after a preservation battle to save it failed, this was one of the most historic hotels in Los Angeles. Built on the site of a dairy farm owned by Reuben Schmidt, the academy awards were convened here in 1930, 1932, 1934, 1940 and 1943 (sans cows). Howard Hughes also dwelled here from time to time in a bungalow. It once housed the famous Coconut Grove nightclub as well, with a sand lagoon pool and palms left over from a Valentino movie. This is where Robert Kennedy was slain on June 5, 1968. Supposedly, Richard Nixon composed his Checkers speech here, that restored him to the good graces of the American public. The jury for Charles Manson made this place a home for a number of months from '69 to '70. Russian dictator Nikita Khrushchev pontificated about burying the West here in the Hotel's Embassy Room (unfortunately his prediction came true regarding the hotel itself). A recreation of the Coconut Grove can be seen in the movie the Aviator. The Brown Derby was across the street (now a sad shell at times painted silver). The former hotel site is near the HMS Bounty, the Prince, the Brass Monkey, and Frank 'n Hanks, and Taylor's Steakhouse (as well as the former sites of the first Brown Derby, the Bull 'n Bush, the Mona Lisa Restaurant, and the Haig Jazz club). Update: The Los Angeles Conservancy has lost its brave and hard fought battle to save the Ambassador. Except for a remnant of the Coconut Grove nightclub - it's now adios. Gone are the visual memories of Hollywood's heyday and Robert Kennedy's last day. Were it not for the Los Angeles Conservancy and Hollywood Heritage, I think Los Angeles might become one big parking lot! Update II: Due to supposed structural problems, even the Coconut Grove remnant will now be torn down. An older version of the Ambassador's sign (originally not a sign but decorative element - the letters were added later) was exposed when the remodeled version was demolished. Collection of Daniel Sullivan This is what's left of the Ambassador (as seen from the Equitable Building) to be incorporated into the school complex being built. Note the arches of the original Coconut Grove (well, now this is a goner as well it appears!).
Angelino Heights, Carroll Ave., Los Angeles	This neighborhood was one of the earliest "suburbs" for the rich, lined with still existing beautiful Victorian houses. The Los Angeles conservancy conducts a tour of this neighborhood. Now that Bunker Hill has been leveled, this is your next best bet.
Angelus Temple (A.F. Leicht 1922-1923), 1100 Glendale Blvd. Echo Park	The temple that evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson built. It holds seats for 5000 people. Predecessor to the televangelists of today - she was a great innovator in using the radio media to evangelize. Sister Aimee took Los Angeles by storm in the 20s and 30s by means in part of her radio program and her positive outlook. While her career was at times controversial and filled with mystery, she opened many pathways in woman's rights and is still much loved by the members of the church and denomination she founded. She died in 1944, but her church lives on becoming one of the largest Pentecostal Denominations in the world - Four Square Gospel Church Larry F. provides this important information: Angelus Temple was built in 1922 and opened January 1, 1923. It has been remodeled twice, however, the immense dome, pipe organ grille with mural, stained glass windows and balconies remain original in shape and design. The original W.W. Kimball Pipe Organ dates back to April of 1923, and is being restored.
(Mercantile) Arcade Building , 540 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA (1924, Kenneth MacDonald Jr.)	This long suffering classic building is currently undergoing a wonderful restoration that promises to help bring Broadway back to its former glory. The passage way under the arch goes between Broadway and Spring street. It once was populated by upscale shops (which will hopefully now return). The Arcade movie palace next door was named for this place. Note the restored interior above.
(The Regent) Beverly-Wilshire Hotel, 9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills (310) 275-5200 (1926)	I have not been in here for many years. Last time I was in there, my son saw Tommy Lasorda there, who was very nice and took the time to talk to him. The hotel was featured in the movie "Pretty Woman".
Bradbury Building (1893 George Herbert Wyman), 304 South Broadway Bradbury Interior	Constructed for Lewis Bradbury - a mining tycoon in Mexico and creator of the town of Bradbury near Monrovia (is it still there?)This building was a masterpiece of design by George Herbert Wyman - a young man with little experience at the time he conceived the idea for the building. Wyman had doubts about his abilities but took the commission after his dead brother told him to do so by means of a Ouija Board. While the Bradbury exterior is somewhat mundane, the interior is utterly striking. It’s the 1890’s vision of the future. The building has a pitched glass top that creates an incredible lighting effect, wrought iron curlicues ornamentation, and beautifully ornate open cage elevators that are still functional. Wyman was inspired to this design while reading science fiction books of the time. In fabricating this edifice, an underground stream was encountered which threatened the stability of the construction. Expensive reinforcements were made, the cost of which was offset by utilizing the water for steam heating and hydraulic power for the elevators. Ironically, Wyman did get some architectural training after doing the Bradbury, but did little else of note after this magnum opus (well - he did remodel the Jonathan Club - near and dear to my heart). Seen in movies like Blade Runner, Wolf, The indestructible Man, Greedy, Murder in the First, D.O.A. (1950 version) and a Burning Passion, it’s a must see if you are touring Broadway. After checking with the security guard, you are free to roam the bottom floor. Nice shop with great books on Los Angeles inside as well. Truly, the most mystical of downtown buildings, the Bradbury is another "must see". Near the Redwood 2nd St. Saloon (now "the Redwood"), as well as Clifton's Cafeteria, Cole's Pacific Electric Buffet, Phillipe's, the Original Pantry Cafe, Hank's Bar, and the Yorkshire Grill.
Brown Derby Hat (mummy), 3300 Block of Wilshire Blvd. on top of the "Brown Derby" mini mall. Thank goodness Herbert Somborn and Bob Cobb didn't have to see this. Fortunately, it appears these horrible decorations in the windows are removable. I guess it's now the Pink Brown Derby.	See the restaurateur page and Brown Derby History page of this site for more detailed information, especially about Herbert Somborn and Bob Cobb. This is the remnant of the second version of the Brown Derby hat (after it moved one block from its original location at 3427 Wilshire Blvd., the second version of the Brown Derby was part of a larger coffee shop). A brave battle was waged to save the Brown Derby Hat, but it appears to have been a pyrrhic victory. The remnants are so sad - at one point the Brown Derby Hat was a Korean restaurant painted silver. It's almost like having a mummified Marilyn Monroe in a showcase. For some reason, pop culture historical treasures are still treated as having no value. If the Brown Derby is brought back to Los Angeles as a recreation, Koreatown is probably not the place to do it (even though I love Koreatown). Unverified rumors I hear about the place range from a claim that this is just a recreation of the hat - to claims that not only is it the original (2nd) hat, but the hat brim is the original as well. Of course - the part that merged into the coffee shop must have been filled in. Someone - please educate me as to the truth. UPDATE: For what it's worth, the mummy has been spruced up a bit and is once again a Korean restaurant. Near the HMS Bounty, the Prince, the Brass Monkey, Frank 'n Hanks, Taylor's Steakhouse, Langer's and the ghost of the Ambassador.
(The) Bryson Apartment Hotel (1913), 2701 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles (Noonan & Kysor - Beaux Arts style).	Once a real estate investment by Fred MacMurray, this is one of Los Angeles' great classic apartment buildings (although it seem to have some city public use now). Featured in a number noir stories and movies, including Raymond Chandler's "The Lady in the Lake". This dates from an era where Westlake/MacArthur Park was an elite suburb part of Los Angeles. Seen in the great noir film Double Indemnity and the TV series Fallen Angels.
Bullock's Wilshire - 3050 Wilshire Blvd. (now a law library for Southwestern Law school and not open to the general public I believe) - Built 1929 and closed in 1992 - designed by John and Donald Parkinson. Matchbook from the downtown Bullock's - Bronwen B. collection. Bullock's Wilshire of course was famous its Tea Room as well.	Bullock's actually traces its origins to the Broadway Department stores. The Broadway was the idea of Arthur Letts who created it in 1896 at 7th and Broadway. It was Letts who put John G. Bullock, a long time worker at the place in charge of the Broadway. When the chain wanted to expand, Letts actually let Bullock put his name on the new store (also downtown). Later, when the bold move was made to expand to the hinterlands of Wilshire Center - the Bullock's name was used. One of the greatest art deco treasures of Los Angeles and thankfully preserved by Southwestern Law School including many interior elements. This former department store was quite an innovation in design when it was first built. At a time when virtually all retail business was centered downtown and looking like big boxes, this was the first suburban department store. Even in the 1920s, parking and traffic were a big problem downtown and this was the first major store designed with the car and parking in mind. A gamble that paid off! Sure wish someone would let me go in and take pictures!!!! Near Langer's, the HMS Bounty restaurant, Langers Deli, Taylor's Steakhouse, the Brass Monkey and the Prince Restaurant (Windsor) Collection of Daniel Sullivan
Capitol Records Tower, 1750 N. Vine St. Hollywood, CA (1954-1955 -Welton Becker)	According to the wishes of Johnny Mercer and Nat King Cole, the building was designed to look like a pile of records. Supposedly the light on top signals "Hollywood" in Morse code.
Charlie Chaplin Studios (The Jim Henson Company), 1416 N. La Brea. Hollywood	Chaplin not only made movies here in his first studio, he was also a resident here for a time. George Reeves starred as Superman in the TV series done here in the 50s before his untimely death. These buildings are remarkably almost unchanged from Chaplin's time - although I don't think the frog was there!.
Castle Green Apartments, 99 S. Raymond Ave. Pasadena (1890 or 1898) More Information	An awe-inspiring building constructed by Col. George Green as a resort (originally named the Webster Hotel and the Green Hotel). Looking at it, you'll think you've been magically transported out of California. This was used to represent the Hotel Nacional in Cuba in the movie Bugsy. Also seen in the movie "The Man With Two Brains" and "The Time Machine" - hey I like that title!.
Chateau Marmont Hotel, 8221 Marmont Lane (or Sunset Blvd). 323 656-1010 (opened Feb. 2, 1929 - Designer Arnold Weitzman)	This may be the ultimate Hollywood experience for those into movie star history. As the name suggests, this place looks like a castle in France. This is truly the most noteworthy hotel in Hollywood history (originally it was an apartment building). In its early days virtually everyone important in the film industry stayed or partied here. In later years, all the greats of rock and roll hung out here including John Lennon and Jim Morrison. If you want to really splurge it’s a great place to stay (not cheap!) and hang out by the pool. Everywhere you go in the hotel you hear people pitching their movie scripts to others. Several complete books have been written about this hotel. Last time I stayed there it was wonderfully un-remodeled (although the room numbers have changed so you can’t figure out which stars lived in which rooms). Of course I have to mention, John Belushi died here in 1982, but don’t hassle the staff in asking which bungalow it was. That would be telling! I just revisited the place and it is still in great shape. The hotel has been bought by the owner of the Standard Hotel, which means it is in good hands. Unlike the staff of the two Los Angeles Standard Hotels who are generally warm and friendly, here they seem to have trained the staff here to be professional but emotionally cool (I guess "aloof" is the word). Not my preference but I guess that appeals to Hollywood types (or perhaps I got that reception for being a nobody). Despite that, I recommend getting a fairly expensive drink in the hotel lobby (where they automatically include a 15% tip - my server just told me the price without mentioning this (and got a second full tip - I guess I looked the innocent type). I discovered it when I went back another day and charged it and got a receipt). Despite the mild negatives - you get a big bang for your buck in time machine ambiance and history. They only begrudgingly seem to allow non-hotel guests in the lobby and restaurant (hopefully me letting you know won't end up in non-hotel guests being completely barred). Probably best to go on a slow week night. Enter through the garage entrance. I don't mean to complain so much, but this is such an historic place - I wish it were a little more accessible to "plain folks" like me.
Chinatown	I'm too lazy to give you a history at this point, but here are some nice pictures of still existing places in Los Angeles's Chinatown.
Corbin Bowl, 19616 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana California, 91356, 818-996-1579	Another 50's bowling alley with a great Googie sign. Some traces of the original interior inside, including a small lunch counter. Near Darby's Coffee Shop and My Brother’s Bar BQ.
Covina Bowl, 1060 W San Bernardino Rd, Covina, (626) 339-1286 (1955)	This may have been the first and most magnificent of the great bowling centers in the 50s. The Pyramid Room inside (named after the giant pyramid entrance) used to have an Egyptian theme. Unfortunately, the Pyramid room is now closed, although it's in perfect shape for someone to reopen it. The bowling is still going strong.
Cross Roads of the World, 6671 Sunset Blvd. (Robert V. Derrah, architect, 1936-1937).	You sometimes hear a claim that this was the world's first shopping center, but that is not correct (for example the Arcade downtown was much older). Described as a shopping court or pedestrian mall when opened, it was a predecessor I guess to the mini-mall (you can see how much our culture has plummeted!). It is however an art deco master work, with a variety of themes, including the styles of England, Spain, Algeria and Persia. Architectural styles include Streamline Modern, Spanish Colonial, and French Provincial motifs. I believe you can see this in LA Confidential (the business suite of Sid Hudgens) and Indecent Proposal. Strangely enough, there is an almost exact replica in a theme park in Florida. Near the Coach and Horses bar, the Hollywood Athletic Club, the Cinerama Dome and the site of Earl Carroll's nightclub.
Eastern-Columbia Building, 849 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA (Claude Beelman, 1929) Has there ever been a more beautiful building?	I think this is my all time favorite building exterior. Art Deco sublime. The colors and ornamentation could not be better. It originally housed the Eastern Outfitting Company (appliances, etc.) and the Columbia Outfitting Company (clothing). Both businesses had the same proprietor, Adolph Sieroty. This building is being used as lofts and condominiums. It can be seen in Batman Forever and Predator 2. Near Clifton's Cafeteria, Cole's PE Buffet, the Yorkshire Grill, Philippe French Dipped Sandwiches and Hank's Bar.
The Elks Club No. 99/Park Plaza Hotel (Claude Beelman and Alexander Curlett - 1923-24 ) Matchbook image generously donated by Larry Cole.	This is a truly magnificent building with an enormous lobby. At one point it became almost a dive hotel and then later was restored in an attempt to make it a luxury hotel. That failed probably due to the crime ridden area that McArthur Park has become. The fabulous murals on the ceiling were painted Anthony Heinbergen. Feminists will certainly appreciate that the male Chauvinist club once had a separate (but equal?) entrance and room for "ladies". This place is now used almost continuously for filming. See my architectural detail page for some more detailed pictures.
Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain, 1526 Mission St, South Pasadena, CA 91030	Definitely an interesting place, although it has a fair dose of creeping knick knackism. When I was a kid, we ate at drug stores more often than any other place. In Maryland, it was Reads drug store and Drug Fair. Only a handful of these places remain in any large city. The only other original soda fountain at a drug store I know of in the Los Angeles Metro area is Watson Drug's in Orange. Near Monty's Steak House (now closed), El Cholo (Pasadena branch), Russell's Hamburgers (closed?), El Torero Mexican restaurant, Freddie's 35er bar, the Rialto theater, and Gus's Barbeque Restaurant.
Farmer's Market, 6333 West 3rd Street Los Angeles, CA 90036 since 1934 More Information	I wasn't sure what category to put this in. Started by farmers in the depression, this place has stayed amazingly true to its character all these years. It started out as 18 stands. Now sort of attached to an upscale outdoor mall (The Grove), they have thankfully not changed the market itself. Owned by the A.F. Gilmore family. All sorts of different shops and food stands and fairly good for movie star sightings. Man - if you can't find something good to eat here - you might as well stop eating! Make sure to eat at the historic "Patsy's Pizza" - the best and first pizza in Los Angeles. The Grove, in combination with the Farmer's Market, makes for a very nice place to walk at night. Validated parking at the Grove is best for visiting both places (but you must validate at the Grove). Near Canter's Deli, Tom Bergin's, the Miracle Mile, the El Coyote restaurant, Patsy's Pizza (inside the Market) and Molly Malone's.
Florentine Gardens, 5951 Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood	One of the last remains of a Hollywood nightclub from the 1940's. This was never a big star hangout, but was immensely popular nightclub for the middle to working class. However, Norma Jean Baker held the reception for her first wedding here (she married unknown Jim Dougherty in 1942). Recently it was endangered but it appears the City of Los Angeles will preserve it. Collection of Joel C.
Grand Central Public Market, 317 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, 90013, Mon-Sat. 9am-6pm, Sun. 9-5, 213-624-2378	Originally built to serve the wealthy on Bunker Hill, this is still a wonderful place for produce and exotic ethnic foods (mostly Hispanic). Well-preserved neon signs inside. Superlative place to find all sorts of esoteric Mexican candies, many of which use hot chili powder. Mexican soda pop, such as the Sangria flavored "Senorial" are also a real treat for the uninitiated. Incidentally, if you want to experience what Bunker Hill might have been like before the skyscrapers, San Diego has a similar hill where the El Cortez Hotel is located that has not been leveled and is full of Victorian houses (good place to shoot a movie for a Bunker Hill period piece). Near Clifton's Cafeteria, Craby Joe's, Cole's French Dipped Sandwiches Restaurant, Philippe the Original French Dipped Sandwiches, Hank's bar and the Yorkshire Grill.
The Gaylord Apartments, 3357 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA (Walker and Eisen) Photo by E. Shamie of Wilshire Blvd. looking East from a window in the Gaylord Apartments. You can see the Talmadge Apartments and Bullocks Wilshire. Collection of Daniel Sullivan	In this mildly gentrified (not to suggest that's a good thing) area of Koreatown, the Gaylord stands out as one of the nicest old apartments. Once considered one of the most elegant in town (and it's still classy), it was named after Gaylord Wilshire, the eccentric millionaire and real estate tycoon. Check out the beautiful lobby (after checking in at the security desk). The HMS Bounty Restaurant and bar is located here as well. The Gaylord started out as one of the first condominium projects in Los Angeles, but converted back to apartments after the depression (and did a stint as a hotel). Located in a very historic part of the Wilshire District, the Brown Derby used to be right next door, the Ambassador Hotel across the street. The the Haig jazz club of Chet Baker fame was virtually across the street on Kenmore, as well as the Bull 'n Bush and Mona Lisa Restaurants (the later being a Musso and Frank Grill progeny). Richard Nixon maintained a place here in the early 60's but it was probably just for brief visits. Formerly owned by Fred Harris. You can see the beautiful "Gaylord" neon sign briefly in the 1950's noir classic "D.O.A" and in the opening credits of "Playboy After Dark" in the 60's. Near the Prince (Windsor) restaurant, the Windsor Apartments, the Brass Monkey bar, Langer's Deli, Elks Club/Park Plaza Hotel and Frank 'n Hanks bar.
Griffith Observatory, Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, just above the Los Feliz neighborhood in Los Angeles. More Information	This had been closed for a while for remodeling. Of course, weird as I am, I liked the old interior better (but they didn't completely remove all of the historic interior)You can go to their site to find out about reservations, shows, etc. I love the incredible views of Los Angeles from here and the trail on Mount Hollywood, which took someone else - Sumeet - to motivate me to hike even part of it. Great views of the Hollywood sign here as well. Seen in many movies, probably most notably "Rebel Without a Cause". Classic art deco building. A must see. Not likely to be used in a Porsche commercial Ahhhh - Los Angeles!!!!! Sure do love this place.
Hollywood Athletic Club, 6525 Sunset blvd. Hollywood, California (Meyer and Holler 1924)	Hollywood classic building, featured in the film noir great "Kiss Me Deadly" (this is where the great Whatsit was stored in a locker). The gym early on was a hangout for many Silver Screen male stars like John Wayne and Dick Powell (the later being my favorite of 1940's actors). Take a nice Meyer and Holler tour in this area including the Egyptian Theater, the Chinese Theater, the former Montmartre building, the Hollywood Athletic Club, the E. Clem Wilson Building (Samsung sign) and the Hollywood First National Bank Building.
The Hollywood Palladium, 6215 Sunset Blvd. 323-962-7600 since (Gordon B. Kaufmann 1940 Normand Chandler - original owner) (highly endangered at present!)	Great survivor of the big band swing era. Lawrence Welk's TV show was based here for a while. I recently asked an older big band musician if he had played here and he gave me a look like I had asked if there was traffic in Los Angeles (it was a stupid question). I'm hearing rumors this place is endangered. The exterior has been remodeled (don't know when or why - the old exterior was more attractive). I haven't been inside. The Day of the Locust was filmed here. It used to be one of the largest dance floors anywhere. UPDATE: This place is great danger of disappearing at present. Contact the Los Angeles Conservancy to see what you can do. UPDATE II: This place has apparently been saved by a new long term lease. Good news!
Hollyhock (Barnsdall) House (1920 Frank Lloyd Wright) - 4800 Hollywood Blvd in Barnsdall park. The pattern of the stone's above represents a Hollyhock - Barnsdall's favorite flower. Below are some beautiful photos of the place generously provided by Phil B. who is a real fan of the Wright creations:	Beautifully preserved house, inside and out, one of several homes by Frank Lloyd Wright (and Lloyd Wright) in the Los Angeles area. Pre-Columbian Mayan influences in style. I'm not expert, but it seems Frank Lloyd Wright was a big influence on the later art deco style. This home utilizes Wright's ingenious method of incorporating hollow terra cotta tiles in the walls (although this isn't the most durable of construction techniques - given California propensity to "Shake, Rattle and Roll"). Built on land acquired in 1919 for eccentric millionaire Aline Barnsdall (1882-1946) who allegedly had a few trysts with Wright. Barnsdall, adhering to the same wacko Socialist school of thought as H. Gaylord Wilshire (she was a big fan of Russian anarchist Emma Goldman), had plans to make this an artist hang out in the style of a commune. Despite her love of the proletariat, she had a fortune of close to six million dollars, inherited from her dear old dad. She had one daughter, Aline Elizabeth Barnsdall. When Wright and Barnsdall had a tiff over what she perceived as Wright's neglect of the housing project, Wright brought in his son Lloyd, as well as two other architectural greats - R.M. Schindler and Richard Neutra - to help finish up the project (while Frank Lloyd worked on building the Imperial Hotel in Japan). Talk about a "dream team"! Schindler did the Studio Residence A himself in 1920 and Schindler and Neutra both worked on the pool area. Barnsdall only lived in the main residence for about two years before handing it over to the City of Los Angeles (a reluctant recipient). She later sued Los Angeles to try to recoup the property when the illustrious Angelino government let the place become a wreck. When in Los Angeles, Barnsdall would crash in the smaller "Director's House - Residence B", where she eventually checked out to that great commune in the sky in December of 1946. For reasons unknown to me, the Residence B was leveled in 1954. It's rather amazing how close the Hollyhock house was to being torn down on many occasions. Barnsdall's contributions to the culture of Los Angeles were not appreciated in her day, due to her perceived off beat character. She was actually in the pokey briefly in 1945 for having over twenty dogs on her residence without a leash. All kidding aside, Barnsdall obviously made a magnificent gift to Los Angeles culture and architecture. Nice tours are available. Near the Dresden Room, the Rustic Inn, and the Los Feliz Brown Derby Drive-in site (now thankfully saved by the Save the Derby organization).
Hollywood First National Bank Building (originally the Pacific-Southwest Trust and Savings), 6777 Hollywood Blvd. (1927-28 Meyer and Holler)	One of the most beautiful and detailed buildings on Hollywood Boulevard (at the corner with Highland) designed by Meyer and Holler (my favorite architects) who also did the Egyptian and Chinese theaters. This building was constructed for the princely sum of $750,000 in 1927. Both Gothic and Art Deco in design, this was either the tallest or second tallest building in Los Angeles (depending on who you talk to) up until 1932. UPDATE: This building (see lower left) now has one of those large time machine destroying signs covering much of the exterior like the Hollywood Roosevelt. I understand that you can't make property owners bear the burden of preserving history for the masses. It's a shame that the City of Los Angeles can't purchase a few of these landmarks and use them for public purposes, rather than let them become so degraded. This building is really the anchor of Hollywood. Near Musso and Frank's restaurant, Boardner's bar and restaurant, Miceli's Italian restaurant, the Pig 'n Whistle, the Frolic Room bar, the Chinese theater, the Egyptian theater and the Pantages theater.
Hollywood High School, 6800 Sunset Blvd.(opened in 1904, the current building was built in 1933)	While the demographics of the students here has changed dramatically, some of the graduates include Mickey Rooney, Jason Robarts and Judy Garland. Near Musso and Frank's, Boardner's, the Pig 'n Whistle, The Power House, Miceli's, the Frolic Room, the Chinese Theater, the El Capitan Theater and the Egyptian Theater. Pretty easy tour, perhaps by foot during the day.
Hollywoodland Realty, 2700 N Beachwood Dr, Hollywood, Typical original Hollywoodland mansion (do not disturb residents).	Hollywoodland, developed in 1923 by C.E. Toberman (who developed much of early Hollywood including the Chinese Theater), Harry Chandler (the publisher at the time of the L.A. Times) and his partner was Mack Sennett of Keystone Kops fame (according to Delores H.) It was the motivation for the world famous Hollywood sign, which originally read Hollywoodland and was an ad for the development. The "land" part of the sign fell down (or was removed) in 1945. Hollywoodland, a 500 acre development in the Hollywood Hills, has countless Los Angeles "movers and shakers" as well movie stars. Most of the original homes (including Elizabethan, Moorish and Normand styles) are well preserved and worth seeing in a slow and careful drive around the extremely narrow and winding streets of this neighborhood. This is no place for aggressive drivers! C. E. Toberman's other main office was located at 6763 Hollywood Boulevard.
The Hollywood (land) Sign on Mt. Lee, Hollywood (1923). Looking North on Franklin Ave. I hope you guys appreciate I risked my life to get you this picture! Here's another view from a Hotel in K-town:	Any resident of Los Angeles knows that the sign originally read Hollywoodland, as a sales gimmick for the original Hollywoodland residential development owned by Harry Chandler. Each letter of the sign is constructed from steel and is 50 feet in height and the length of the sign in 450 feet. When it fell into disrepair and was restored, they left the "land" part off in 1945 and the rest is history. You can't walk right up to it - the land there is restricted. But you can get some pretty good views going up Beachwood Dr. where you will see stone gates that still say Hollywoodland. Most Hollywood buffs also know that Peg Entwistle was the most famous of individuals (an actress) to jump off the sign in 1932 and hopefully meet her maker. The test of the real Hollywood "get a life" enthusiast is whether they know which letter she jumped off of! It appears she jumped off the "H" (unless she bounced - actually this too is a subject of controversy! Some say the 2nd "D" and others the first "O"). Unfortunately, other people have followed in the footsteps of Peg's bad decision (probably the reason for restricting access to the area). Apparently, not everyone is shouting "Hurray for Hollywood".
Knickerbocker Hotel (1925, 1714 North Ivar Ave, Hollywood, California	Now a senior home (mostly Russian I guess). Probably most famous for being the place Francis Farmer very publicly went bonkers in 1943. D.W. Griffith kicked the bucket here in July of 1948. Other people to visit here were Dick Powell (perhaps the best Philip Marlowe), Elvis Presley (whose fans Shaked, Rattled and Rolled so much here that he had to high tail it over to the Beverly Wilshire Hotel), Francis Albert Sinatra, and of sugar phobic Gloria Swanson. Supposedly this is where Joltin' Joe did go with Norma Jean for their honeymoon in 1954. William Fawley passed to the great unknown here in 1966.
Los Altos Apartments (Do not disturb residents), 4121 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA (Edward B. Rust 1925)	Beautiful Spanish revival apartments with Moorish and Italianate influences. This may have been built by William Randolph Hearst (although there is some dispute about that). He definitely did live here from time to time with Marion Davies. This was one of the first condominium type apartments in Los Angeles. Perino's was right next door. No sign of "Rosebud" anywhere.
Los Angeles City Hall, 200 N. Spring St. (Albert Martin Sr., John and Donald Parkinson, and John C. Austin Interior by Austin Whittlesey - April 25, 1928 - a hodgepodge of styles including classical, Romanesque, Beaux Arts)	The ultimate symbol of Los Angeles. It always gives me a good feeling inside to see it. Built at a cost of four million dollars. The only building originally allowed to exceed the now defunct 13 story (150 ft) height limit for buildings for some 50 years (it has 28 stories). It was supposedly highly influenced by the Nebraska State Capitol, which also is sort of a skyscraper sandwiched between a base. It can be seen in the old Dragnet shows (on the badge) and it served as the Daily Planet in the old Superman TV series. Seen repeatedly in that great old film noir "Criss Cross" and more recently in the movie, the Black Dahlia. It was damaged in the Northridge earthquake, but later completely restored. Collection of Sandra Z.
Los Angeles Public Library, Los Angeles Public Library 630 West Fifth Street - (213)228-7000 (Bertram Goodhue 1925 or 1926 Roman, Byzantine, Egyptian and Islamic architectural styles)	This is a excellent place to research Los Angeles history, although the bathrooms can be an unpleasant adventure (even the down and out need some place to go - perhaps the City of Los Angeles should develop better places to serve their needs). They also have an extensive website with data bases that anyone can access (including a menu collection). Even if you are just visiting Los Angeles, stop in and get a visitor's library card, so that you can use a more extensive collection of data bases on the website. Residents of the area get access to the full data base collection on the site. Fantastic book store on the premises, with lots of books on Los Angeles history and nostalgia. There are even restaurants in the building. Much of the original interior was destroyed in a fire in 1986 and subsequent remodeling (but some original elements remain).
Malibu Pier, Malibu, CA	Don't have any history on this for you today. When I quit being lazy I'll do the research. I remember seeing this in a film noir flick. Can someone remind me what it was? I can't decide which is nicer - Malibu or Laguna Beach. Guess I'll have to buy a mansion in both cities! Not likely.
Max Factor Building/The Hollywood History Museum (1931 remodel by S. Charles Lee - Regency Moderne), 1666 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, California	Max Factor (born in Russia and immigrated 1904), movie makeup inventor and genius made this beautiful art deco building the home of his makeup empire in the 1930s. It is now the Hollywood History Museum, a great place to visit for anyone even vaguely interested in the history of the movies. Also has a prodigious collection of photos of the history of "the City" of Hollywood (for those of you not living in Los Angeles, Hollywood was only briefly a true city until it was incorporated early on into the City of Los Angeles). The lobby was used in the movie "The Two Jakes", a much better film than the critics gave it credit for (Harvey Keitel should have gotten the best supporting actor Oscar for his role in this film).
The Miracle Mile (from Fairfax to La Brea) The May Company, 6067 Wilshire (now LACMA museum) - 1940 Albert C. Martin and S.A. Marx Sontag Drug Store (now Wilshire Beauty Supply) - Norstrom and Anderson -1935 - originally contained a soda fountain and grill and coffee shop. One of the largest drug stores in America when constructed. streamline moderne El Rey Theater (formerly movies, now a music venue) - 1928 - W. Cliff Balch Wilshire Tower Building, 5500 Wilshire Blvd. - 1928-1929 (Gilbert Stanley Underwood) - Originally Desmond's clothing store and Silverwood's. Silverwood's was the favorite clothes store for the dapper Mickey Cohen. E. Clem Wilson Building, 5217 Wilshire Blvd. - Meyer and Holler - 1930 (the sign which damages the architectural effect may change subject, but it's been there for a long time). Originally J.J. Newberry Variety Store. The Darkroom - 5370 Wilshire formerly a programmatic Camera shop in the shape of a camera (is that redundant?). Marcus P. Miller - 1938. Dominguez Wilshire Building, Morgan, Walls, and Clement 1930 (originally Myer Siegel Dept. Store).	Early commercial development by the great A. W. Ross, who had the foresight to see that parking problems downtown would shift business to the "suburbs". This was one of the first commercial shopping areas to cater to the automobile with parking and entrances in the rear of the stores. Built at the height of the Art Deco craze - there are many Art Deco gems here. Collection of Daniel Sullivan They are calling the shopping area in the Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas "the Miracle Mile" - yeah, right!
Montecito Apartments (Marcus Miller - 1931 - zig zag art deco ), 6650 Franklin Ave. Hollywood (Do not enter or disturb residents!)	One of the most classically beautiful and mysterious art deco apartments in Los Angeles. Whether specifically named or not, these apartments were the inspiration for many a noir detective story, including a short story by Raymond Chandler - "The Little Sister" (where it played the role of the Chateau Bercy). Ronald Reagan lived here early in his Hollywood career. Postcard collection of Sandra Z. The Montecito in the forground.
Olvera Street, Downtown Los Angeles The Avila Adobe - the oldest house in Los Angeles. La Golondrina Cafe - T T Interior of La Golondrina Cafe The original Plaza on Olvera St. The first Catholic Church - rebuilt after being destroyed in a flood I believe. This was not part of the Mission chain. The Pico House (1870) - once the tallest building in Los Angeles and the most luxurious hotel. It was built by Pio Pico, the governor of California (who was bi-racial Black and Mexican). It now stands peacefully alone, but it was once surrounded by an early dense urban area, much of which was lost when the 101 was built.	This is where El Pueblo de Nuestra Senora La Reina de Los Angeles de Porciuncula began. It includes the first church (rebuilt), the original plaza (although it moved a few times), remnants of the original water canal, the oldest buildings in Los Angeles and numerous restaurants, stands and stores. Definitely worth seeing. It's hard to imagine Los Angeles as the original dusty wild west Mexican town it once was, but this is your best opportunity. Be sure to check out La Golondrina Cafe with good Mexican food. I believe it dates from the 1920s. There is a ton of history regarding this street and the establishment of the City of Los Angeles, but that goes well beyond the topic of this site (a convenient excuse for being lazy!).
One Bunker Hill Building, 601 W. 5th St. Downtown, Los Angeles, CA (1930-34 Allison & Allison).	I guess this is the only original building left on Bunker Hill. It's an art deco masterpiece. Many people pass it by each day for lunch without poking their heads in to see the jaw dropping incredible marble lobby (yes, I know I need to get a picture of it, but the guard in the lobby looked pretty menacing last time I was there!).
(James) Oviatt Building (Walker and Eisen and Joseph Feil 1927-28), including the restaurant Cicada, 617 S. Olive St., Los Angeles (213) 488-9488 See Cicada on the restaurant page for more pictures.	The incredible dream of James Oviatt who fell in love with Art Deco after the 1925 Paris Exposition that created Art Deco. The interior was once a men's store known as Alexander & Oviatt. This (restaurant and Penthouse), along with the interior of the Queen Mary and the Pantages Theater, probably marks the most pristine and authentic Art Deco interiors in the Los Angeles area. The penthouse of the building, which can be rented for parties, is true Art Deco Nirvana. The interior of the Cicada restaurant is also stunningly beautiful Art Deco (I may be damaging my macho image here - but remember - I like Nick's Cafe as well - thank you very much!). Cicada is a very highly reviewed restaurant and site of many movies and commercials (whose crews seem intent on damaging the priceless interior). At a minimum, stop in to get a drink at the bar and marvel at the place. Originally a men's shop and full of Rene Lalique etched glass. A treasure. Near Clifton's Cafeteria, Cole's PE Buffet French Dipped Sandwiches restaurant, Hank's bar, Philippe the Original French Dipped Sandwiches restaurant, the Biltmore Hotel, the Standard Hotel and the Second Street Redwood Saloon (soon to reopen)
The Pasadena Freeway (Hwy 110)	Inaugurated on December of 1940, it's the patriarch of freeways in the West and Los Angeles metro's first. If you thought Los Angeles traffic was a recent phenomena, you may be comforted in knowing that the 110 had it's first unintended parking lot experience three days after it opened due to a mass exodus from the Rose Bowl. About eight miles in length and very winding with short entry ramps. Better hit the gas! You've just got to love a city where even the freeways are Art Deco! The tunnels go beneath Elysian Park. By the way - keep your eye on the road!
Terminal Annex Post Office, 900 N. Alameda St. near Union Station, downtown Los Angeles, since 1938.	Don't know much about this place, but it has great 40's style WPA art deco(ish) murals of Los Angeles history. You can visit the lobby on a weekday and walk to Olivera Street as well. Seen briefly in the opening credits of Criss Cross. Interestingly enough Charles Bukowski worked here for a while with the U.S. Post Office (and he truly hated the place and the job). Close to Union Station, Hop Louie's and Philippe's French Dipped Sandwiches restaurant and not too far from Cole's, Clifton's, the Biltmore, the Yorkshire Grill and Hank's bar.
Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 310-435-3511	Despite its tourist trap reputation, the interiors here are some of the best preserved Art Deco around, including a very well preserved bar. This is one of LA metro's least appreciated and underrated attractions in my opinion. The tours into the interior are well worth it, to see the abandoned pool and main ball room, among other things. The rooms are very well preserved, and in my experience the claims of being haunted may not be entirely bogus. The Poseidon Adventure (1972) was filmed here, as well as Farewell My Lovely (1975), Treacherous Crossing, and Meet Danny Wilson. Recently, several scenes from the Aviator were filmed here as well. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the Queen Mary is/was larger than the Titanic. At certain times of day, you can enter for free if you eat in one of the restaurants (and pay for parking). Near the V room bar, the Reno Room, the 36 36 Club, the Indian Bar, the Alhambra Bar, TC's Cocktail Lounge and Clancy's Irish bar and restaurant.
Santa Monica Buildings, Santa Monica, CA	You can tell I'm getting really lazy. Someday I'll give you some history on these. Santa Monica sure has a different feel to it than LA. It seems like everyone here dresses like a supermodel (who has the time to be so perfect?). It's a very politically correct town. Last time I was there, I just tapped someone's bumper while parking and did no damage, but half of the outdoor cafe where I parked got up and started searching for the owner to turn me in! When the owner came out - fortunately she could have cared less (maybe she wasn't from Santa Monica) All kidding aside, it is a beautiful place. The Third Street Promenade (above) is a nice place to walk at night for tourists who are not comfortable in more funky areas. Also good for night time walks are the Sunset Strip and the Universal City Walk (but see my warnings page).
The Talmadge Apartments (1923 A. Curlett and C. Beelman) - 3278 Wilshire Blvd. at Berendo in Koreatown/Wilshire Center (Do not enter or disturb residents) More Information on this historic apartment building	The elegant apartments are named after Norma Talmadge who was given the building as a present from her husband, Joseph Schenk, chairman of 20th Century Fox (or was he president of United Artists?). This building appears in the movie "Bound". Near the HMS Bounty restaurant, Langer's Deli, the Prince restaurant, the Elk's Club/Park Plaza Hotel, the Townhouse Hotel, the Bryson Apartments, the Brass Monkey and Frank 'n Hanks bar.
Sheraton Town House, 2959 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA (1929 Norman Alpaugh)	This place was once one of the most elegant Hotels in town (this was once ground zero for the elite of Los Angeles and near the origin of Wilshire Boulevard). It contained the famous Zebra Room nightclub (designed by no less than Wayne McAllister). Elizabeth Taylor married Nicky Hilton here in 1950 (Conrad Hilton had bought it in 1942 for a million bucks). I believe up until recently is was used as subsidized housing for the poor. Near Langer's Deli, the Bryson Apartments, the HMS Bounty bar and restaurant, the Brass Monkey bar and restaurant, Taylor's Steakhouse, Frank 'n Hanks bar and the Prince Korean Restaurant.
Title Guarantee & Trust Building (John and Donald Parkinson - 1929-1931), corner of S. Hill and W. Fifth, downtown Los Angeles	This may be the second best Art Deco building in downtown Los Angeles. Nice mural inside called "The Treaty of Cahuenga" by Hugo Ballin. This served as the fictitious "Los Angeles Tribune Building" in the TV show "Lou Grant". Believe it or not the original ads for the building claim the location had plenty of fresh air (even a stretch back then!). It’s always a joy to see its white exterior gleaming in the morning sun from the window of the building I occasionally work in near Pershing Square. By the way, the design committee that picked the “new” design of Pershing Square, in my totally unbiased opinion, must have been blind. Couldn’t they have picked something more consistent with the history of the park and the area. More trees might have been nice in this otherwise concrete jungle (a few full time policemen would have been worth it to give the area more greenery without attracting the drug element). Oh well.
Union Station (completed 5-7-1939) - John and Donald Parkinson with help from Edward Warren Hoak, J.J. Christie, H. Gilman and R. J. Wirth) - Streamline Moderne, Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival) 800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles	The last great train station built in the U.S. Officially the name of this place is the Union Passenger Terminal. Created by the efforts of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe (try to put that into a song), the Southern Pacific and Union Pacific Railways. This train depot has an excellent Art Deco interior. Also a locale for Blade Runner, Criss Cross, and Bugsy. Take the Los Angeles Conservancy tour of this place and see the remains of the beautiful original restaurant that was here in the 1940’s - the Fred Harvey Restaurant (designed by Mary Jane Colter). It now has a nice new restaurant there as well - Traxx. In the 1940's stars would take trains here with the names "The Super Chief and The City of Los Angeles" and arrive here (or get off in Pasadena to avoid fans). Seen in numerous movies including one entitled "Union Station" (which strangely takes place in Chicago). Near Phillipe's French Dipped Sandwiches restaurant, Olvera Street, La Golondrina Cafe, Hop Louie's and the Postal Annex and not far from Cole's PE Buffet, Clifton's, the Yorkshire Grill, the Standard Hotel, Hank's bar and Casey's.
Universal City Walk, Universal Studios, Universal City off of the 101	Obviously not a time machine (although it has nice neon recreations such as the neon from Earl Carroll’s nightclub). I mention this since it’s one of the few places less adventuresome tourists might feel safe walking at night and it’s a great place for people watching and keeping up with Los Angeles fashions and pop culture (at least for the less affluent classes). This would have been a great place to make a Brown Derby recreation. Nice Mexican Restaurant there with Mariachis - Camacho's Cantina (818 622 3333)(a good deal if you take the show into account). The Santa Monica Third Street Promenade (in Raymond Chandler’s Bay City) is also a nice place to walk at night, although for reasons I really don’t much understand I’m not much into Santa Monica – please don’t hate me!
Venice Columns, Windward Ave. Venice, CA (Norman Marsh and C.H. Russell)	Architecturally, this is about all that is left of the original concept for Venice California. Abbot Kinney (1850-1920) attempted to recreate Venice, Italy in California - canals and all. He built his dream in 1905. While it was an initially success, the canals eventually proved to be impractical (although a few still survive). The city underwent a long period of decline where much of the Venetian architecture was lost. It became a very eclectic bohemian area in the 50s and 60s. Also a Jim Morrison locale. Being on the beach in Los Angeles county - this area has now had a resurgence with great promise (in other words - it's yet another area no one can afford to buy a house!).
Walt Disney Concert Hall , 111 S. Grand Ave, downtown Los Angeles, 213/972-4399, 323/850-2000 Picture composed by Paul M. More Information on this Downtown Landmark Building	Yes, this is a building, and quite a beautiful one at that. You don't get much more futuristic than this. And it has incredible acoustics as well. Strangely, the acoustics were so good when I heard the LA Philharmonic here, that it sounded like I was listening to a CD. Almost a little too clean. The interior is rather understated however. Beside a futuristic pipe organ, it's a bit dull, but perhaps that was necessary to have the great acoustics. Finally, some real creativity in a new building in any event. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, who is rumored to be planning another great work for Las Vegas. Near Clifton's Cafeteria, Cole's PE Buffet restaurant, Philippe the Original French Dipped Sandwiches restaurant, the Original Pantry Cafe, the Yorkshire Grill and Hank's Bar.
Westwood Village (developed by Janss Investment Co. starting in 1928 European/Mediterranean theme). Janss Investment Co. Building (1929 - Allison and Allison - Islamic zig zag design)(the Eurochow Restaurant has a pretty incredible interior while not being insanely expensive).	This beautiful development including the UCLA campus is a nice place for a stroll. When I first fell in love with LA as a visitor from San Diego, this was usually the spot I would head to. It used to be packed on weekend nights. Then for reasons I can't really recall I stopped coming here for about 15 years or so (perhaps I got tired of paying for parking or fighting traffic when I would stay in East Los with relatives). On a recent return it seemed very quiet on a weekend. Don't know if was just a slow night or whether competition from newer night spots like the Grove and Universal City Walk have calmed things down here. Still a very stylish and fun place to hang out. Lot's of upscale restaurants and movie theaters, including two movie palaces (see the movie palace page). Holmby Building? (1929 Gordon Kaufman) - correct me if I'm wrong.
Wilshire Center/Koreatown - According to Wikipedia the boundaries of Wilshire Center are Wilton Place on the west, Third Street on the north, Hoover Street on the east, and Eight Street on the south. I'm not sure it makes sense to put boundaries on Koreatown since it seems to expand in leaps and bounds each time I visit. Most of my experience of the area is spent between Vermont and Normandie on Wilshire adding on a few places on 6th and 7th Streets. This is a great part of town with important classic churches, buildings and restaurants. Besides the historic aspects, it's a great place now to learn about Korean Culture. Occasional drive by scenes in Dragnet and Adam 12 are fun for seeing extinct places like the Chapman Park Hotel. Still present are the Tishman Buildings, and the former Texaco and IBM buildings, as well as remnants of the Ambassador and ghosts of the Brown Derby Restaurant, the Bull 'n Bush, the Haig Jazz club, the Mona Lisa Restaurant and other beloved memories. This was a truly happening place in the 30's, 40's & 50's and has become a happening place of a different nature now. Must sees in the area are the Prince Korean Restaurant (formerly the Windsor), the HMS Bounty Restaurant, the Brass Monkey Restaurant and Karaoke Bar, Cassell's Hamburgers, Frank 'n Hank's Bar, Taylor's Steakhouse. There are a massive amount of great Korean Restaurants too numerous to mention that should be explored as well as two large and very interesting Korea shopping Malls on Western Ave. in Korea town. How one views a place has much to do with whether you grew up there or not. Having grown up in Howard County, Maryland which was a cultural wasteland for me (other than perhaps the traditional cultures of the area which I found rather boring), the intermix of classic "American" culture with Korean culture in this area is a wonderful thing for me. For people who grew up in this area in the 30's, 40's , 50's & 60's - it may be a bit disconcerting. Few people relish vast changes in the places they enjoyed in their youth, anymore than I am happy with the massive changes I see in the places I grew up in Maryland (as much as I was discontented with the place in my youth! - you can't win.) The Evanston Apartments (the famous Haig Jazz club of Chet Baker and Gerry Mulligan fame was once next door) See also my blurbs on the Restaurant/Bar pages for the the Prince, the HMS Bounty , the Brass Monkey, Frank 'n Hank's, as well as blurbs on this page for the Ambassador Hotel, the Wilshire Galleria (I. Magnin), Bullock's Wilshire, Talmadge Apartments, the Sheraton Townhouse, and the Gaylord Hotel/Apartments. Nice places nearby Wilshire Center include Lowenbrou Keller, and Langer's. If your not a believer, experiencing the interior of this church (Immanuel Presbyterian) may well change your mind! Can anyone tell me about this magnificent building above? Wilshire Boulevard Temple (1929)	The above photos by Kathleen B. are of the Chapman Park Market designed by Stiles Clements (1929). Much of this area was once referred to as Chapman Park. This photo above by Kathleen B. shows the Immanuel Presbyterian Church built in 1929. Shots of the magnificent interior are to the left. Wilshire Christian Church (1923) The Tishman building (seen in episodes of Dragnet and Adam 12 - designed by Claude Beelman).
The Wilshire Galleria (formerly I. Magnin Department Store -1939 Myron Hunt and H.C. Chambers) 3240 Wilshire Blvd., Koreatown.	Quite a hidden gem in K-Town. This department store, which I believe dates from 1939 has a lot of amazing art deco interior design elements still in excellent shape including a really beautiful art deco chandelier. Now an upscale, predominantly Korean mall - it's an interesting place to walk around in Koreatown. While one hears a lot about Bullock's Wilshire (which I believe was also an I. Magnin for a while), this classic department store goes quietly unnoticed outside of the Korean community.