Steven Taylor, Taylor Equities

As an architecture enthusiast, I’ve long been captivated by the eclectic tapestry of buildings that make up Los Angeles. The city’s architectural landscape is like an open-air museum, weaving stories of different epochs, cultures, and philosophies. From Spanish Revival homes to modernist marvels, every corner of L.A. holds a captivating tale told through brick, mortar, glass, and steel. I want to take you on a journey through time and style, exploring the architecture that makes Los Angeles more than just the City of Angels-it’s a city of architectural wonders.

The Spanish Influence: Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival

Let’s begin with the architecture that mirrors Los Angeles’ Spanish roots. The Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival styles are two of the earliest influences in L.A.’s architecture, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the most iconic examples of Mission Revival is the Union Station. Walking into the station’s main hall, I always feel transported back in time, as I admire its high arched ceilings and intricate tilework that pay homage to California’s early missions.

Hollywood’s Golden Era: Art Deco and Streamline Moderne

As we fast-forward to the 1920s and ’30s, the glitz and glam of Hollywood began to reflect in the city’s structures. Art Deco skyscrapers like the Eastern Columbia Building stand as symbols of this era. On my first visit to this teal-colored wonder, I was mesmerized by its intricate sunburst patterns and terra cotta tiles, feeling like an extra on a film set from Hollywood’s Golden Age.

The Streamline Moderne style, a later evolution of Art Deco, also left its mark on the city. The Coca-Cola Building, shaped like an ocean liner, is a must-see. It’s hard not to admire the nautical illusion created by the building’s curvilinear façade, porthole windows, and even a “bridge” on the roof. It was like finding an architectural time capsule that speaks of a society fascinated with speed, travel, and modernity.

Mid-Century Modernism: The Case Study Houses

The post-World War II era ushered in Mid-Century Modernism, a style characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection with nature. My absolute favorite example is the Case Study Houses-a series of experimental homes designed by renowned architects like Charles and Ray Eames, Richard Neutra, and Pierre Koenig.

Visiting the Stahl House (Case Study House #22) was an awe-inspiring experience for me. Overlooking the city from the Hollywood Hills, the glass-walled house blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living, while offering panoramic views of Los Angeles below. It felt like an elegant synthesis of structure and nature, an ideal that many architects continue to strive for today.

Postmodernism and Deconstructivism: The Walt Disney Concert Hall

In more recent decades, Los Angeles has embraced styles that challenge conventional architectural norms. One such marvel is Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall. The building’s sweeping, metallic surfaces seem to defy gravity and logic. When I walked around it for the first time, it felt like stepping into a sculptural masterpiece, where every angle offered a new form, a new reflection, a new experience.

The Present and Future: Sustainable Architecture

Today, the city is becoming increasingly focused on sustainability, with architects aiming to minimize the environmental impact of buildings. From green roofs to solar panels, these modern structures are designed to coexist with the environment rather than dominate it.

Walking through the recently built campuses featuring sustainable architecture, I feel hopeful for the future. These buildings may not have the historic charm of a Spanish Revival mansion or the dramatic flair of a Mid-Century Modern home, but they hold the promise of a more sustainable and harmonious coexistence with nature.Los Angeles is more than just a backdrop for Hollywood movies or the glam of Beverly Hills; it’s a living, evolving showcase of architectural ingenuity and diversity. As I’ve explored these buildings, from the historical to the contemporary, I’ve come to appreciate Los Angeles as a city that celebrates both its past and its future, through the very structures that make it unique. And so, the journey through time and style continues, with every block in Los Angeles offering a new chapter in this endlessly fascinating architectural story. — Steven Taylor, Los Angeles

Originally published at http://steventaylorlandlord.wordpress.com on October 2, 2023.

In the sprawling cityscape of Los Angeles, where the iconic freeway systems buzz with vehicles and skyscrapers pierce the skyline, an unassuming yet powerful movement is gaining traction: sustainability. From small eco-conscious businesses to grand city-wide initiatives, LA is embracing a future where green is the new gold. This article delves into the heart of the green movement in LA, highlighting the pioneering businesses, initiatives, and community programs that are leading the sustainability charge.

Los Angeles Goes Green: A City-Wide Commitment

The City of Angels has long been known for its entertainment industry, diverse culture, and sun-soaked beaches. However, in recent years, LA’s commitment to sustainability has become increasingly evident. The city’s “Sustainable City pLAn” is a testament to this commitment, aiming to fortify against the impacts of climate change while promoting an inclusive green economy.

A key element of this plan is the target to source 100% of the city’s electricity from renewable sources by 2035. Furthermore, efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by enhancing public transport and infrastructure have been amplified, demonstrating the city’s genuine commitment to a greener future.

Spotlight on Eco-Conscious Businesses

1. Solar Studios : Positioned in the heart of LA, Solar Studios is an eco-friendly venue that’s perfect for events and productions. With solar panels lining the roof, this establishment showcases how businesses can marry functionality with sustainability.
2. Erewhon Market : As an upscale health food store, Erewhon Market is leading by example. They not only source organic and locally-produced items but also prioritize sustainable packaging, further pushing the boundaries of what it means to be an eco-conscious business in LA.
3. Green Truck : Who said fast food can’t be sustainable? Green Truck operates with a farm-to-truck ethos, serving locally-sourced, organic meals from a vehicle that runs on vegetable oil.

Sustainable Community Initiatives

Los Angeles communities are not just bystanders in this green revolution; they’re active participants. Take, for instance, the Los Angeles Community Garden Council (LACGC) . With over 42 community gardens spread across the city, LACGC promotes urban farming, allowing residents to cultivate their own produce. This not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation but also fosters community spirit.

Another commendable initiative is . By temporarily closing off streets to motor vehicles, CicLAvia transforms them into public recreational spaces. This event promotes cycling, walking, and other sustainable modes of transport, encouraging Angelenos to reimagine their city without the omnipresent car.

Eco-Educational Programs

Education is the foundation of any significant change. Recognizing this, LA has witnessed the rise of various programs aimed at instilling eco-awareness. TreePeople , an environmental non-profit, engages the community in tree-planting events, educational programs, and sustainable workshops. By merging action with knowledge, they’re nurturing an informed generation of eco-champions.

The Takeaway

Los Angeles , with its unique blend of glamour and innovation, is perfectly poised to be a global leader in the sustainability movement. As businesses embrace eco-friendly practices, city-wide initiatives focus on green transformations, and communities come together for sustainable causes, LA is setting a remarkable precedent.

While challenges are inevitable, the collaborative spirit of Los Angeles’s residents, entrepreneurs, and policymakers ensures that the city’s future is not just star-studded, but also sustainably bright.

With every sustainable step, Los Angeles is proving that even in a city known for its glitz and glamour, green is undoubtedly the most fashionable color. And as this green wave continues to surge, one can’t help but feel optimistic about a sustainable future for both LA and cities worldwide.

Originally published at https://steventaylorlandlord.blogspot.com.

Nestled between the rolling waves of the Pacific and the towering peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles (often affectionately referred to as LA) has always been a land of dreams. From its early beginnings to its evolution into a global megacity, LA’s tapestry is rich with dynamic changes, architectural marvels, and a fusion of diverse cultures. Journey with us through the annals of LA’s history and witness the incredible transformation of this City of Angels.

From Pueblo to Metropolis: The Early Days

The history of modern Los Angeles began in 1781 with 44 settlers, known as “Los Pobladores.” They established a small pueblo named “El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles del Río Porciúncula” near the Los Angeles River. This little settlement, built around a communal plaza, set the stage for what would become one of the world’s most influential cities.

Throughout the 19th century, LA’s growth was moderate. But with the completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s, the once-sleepy pueblo was thrust into rapid development. The population swelled, and LA began its journey towards urbanization.

Hollywood’s Golden Era: The Birth of an Entertainment Capital

No discussion of Los Angeles’s evolution is complete without mentioning its transformation into the entertainment capital of the world. In the early 20th century, the fledgling film industry migrated from the East Coast, attracted by LA’s favorable climate and diverse landscapes. By the 1920s, studios like Warner Bros., Paramount, and MGM had set up shop, and Hollywood’s golden age was in full swing. The iconic Hollywood sign, originally reading “HOLLYWOODLAND” as a real estate advertisement, became emblematic of LA’s newfound glamour.

Architectural Evolution: From Mission Revival to Modernism

The architectural landscape of Los Angeles serves as a visual testament to its evolution. The early 20th century saw the rise of Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival styles, reflecting LA’s Spanish-Mexican heritage. Structures like Union Station, with its blend of Spanish Revival, Mission Revival, and Streamline Moderne styles, encapsulate this era.

Post-WWII LA embraced Modernism, giving birth to the famed Mid-century Modern structures. The innovative Case Study Houses and iconic structures like the Theme Building at LAX are embodiments of this shift. Today, LA’s skyline, dotted with contemporary architectural wonders like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, continues to evolve, merging the past and present in steel, glass, and concrete.

Cultural Fusion: LA’s Melting Pot

One of the defining characteristics of Los Angeles’s evolution is its rich cultural tapestry. As the decades rolled on, waves of migration from across the world added to its demographic mosaic. Neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Koreatown, Little Ethiopia, and Boyle Heights highlight LA’s multicultural character.

The late 20th century saw significant movements that shaped LA’s cultural and social landscape. The Chicano Movement of the 1960s, the rise of West Coast hip-hop in the ’80s, and the LGBTQ+ rights movement, with LA’s annual Pride Parade being one of the world’s largest, have all contributed to the city’s ever-evolving identity.

Challenges and Resilience: The LA Spirit

Los Angeles hasn’t grown without facing its share of challenges. The city has weathered natural disasters, from earthquakes like the devastating 1994 Northridge quake to recurring wildfires. Civil unrest, notably the Watts Riots of 1965 and the 1992 LA Riots, highlighted deep-seated social issues.

Yet, with each challenge, the spirit of Los Angeles has shone through. Communities have come together, rebuilding and reimagining a better city. Infrastructure projects, like the ongoing expansion of the LA Metro system, and cultural initiatives, such as the revitalization of the LA River, symbolize the city’s resilience and forward-thinking nature.

The Ever-Evolving City of Angels

From a modest pueblo to a sprawling metropolis, the evolution of Los Angeles is a tale of dreams, determination, and dynamism. Every street corner, building, and mural tells a story, chronicling the city’s journey through the ages.

Today, as you drive down the bustling freeways or stroll along the sun-drenched boulevards of LA, it’s easy to get lost in the city’s modern allure. But scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll discover layers of history, culture, and innovation that have shaped this global city.

Indeed, the story of Los Angeles is not just about how much it has changed but about its unwavering spirit that propels it into the future, ensuring that LA will continue to evolve, inspire, and mesmerize for decades to come. — Steven Taylor, Los Angeles

Originally published at https://medium.com.

In the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, a city known for its glamour, innovation, and myriad of entertainment avenues, there exists a legacy that has been intertwined with the city’s cultural fabric-the Los Angeles Lakers . Over the decades, the Lakers have transcended beyond the realm of basketball to become a global brand, embodying the spirit, charisma, and competitiveness of LA. Their influence reverberates through basketball fashion, fan culture, and the dazzling celebrity presence that lights up the Staples Center during game nights.

The journey begins on the hardwood, where the Lakers have had a storied rivalry with teams like the Boston Celtics, adding rich chapters to the NBA’s history. However, the Lakers’ influence extends beyond the court into the realms of fashion and fan culture. The team’s iconic purple and gold colors have become synonymous with basketball fashion, inspiring a myriad of apparel and merchandise that fans proudly wear to showcase their allegiance. Moreover, the Lakers’ signature headbands and throwback jerseys have become quintessential items in the wardrobes of basketball enthusiasts.

The essence of being a Laker fan is unique and extends beyond the borders of Los Angeles. The love of the game and the allure of the Lakers’ brand bind the Lakers’ fan base together as a global community. The camaraderie among fans is palpable during game nights at the Staples Center, which transforms into a melting pot of cultures. This fan culture has nurtured a sense of belonging and loyalty that is unparalleled, making the Lakers more than just a basketball team.

One of the hallmark features of the Lakers’ experience is the star-studded crowd that graces the Staples Center. The front row is often adorned with A-list celebrities from various domains-Hollywood, music, fashion, and beyond. These celebrities, sporting Lakers’ gear, become an integral part of the viewing experience, blurring the lines between basketball and showbiz. This unique blend of glamour and sports has amplified the allure of the Lakers, making them a household name not only in LA but across the globe.

The symbiotic relationship between the LA Lakers and Los Angeles is emblematic. The city’s vibrant culture, its quest for excellence, and its penchant for glamour are mirrored in the ethos of the Lakers. The team, in turn, contributes to the city’s identity, becoming a beacon of community, resilience, and excellence. The Lakers’ success stories, their trials and tribulations, resonate with the city’s own narrative, making them an integral part of Los Angeles’ cultural landscape.

On a global stage, the Lakers have become a brand that symbolizes basketball excellence and the allure of Hollywood. Millions of people around the world watch their games, and every victory is a cause for celebration. The Lakers have become ambassadors of basketball, taking the game to different corners of the globe and, in the process, becoming synonymous with the sport itself.

Moreover, the Lakers have been at the forefront of leveraging social media and digital platforms to engage with a global audience. The team’s endeavors on these platforms have not only bolstered its brand but have also brought fans closer to the action, making the Lakers a household name in countries far removed from the shores of California.

In conclusion, the Los Angeles Lakers are more than a basketball team. They are a cultural phenomenon, a legacy that continues to evolve with time. Through their influence on basketball fashion, the unique fan culture they have nurtured, and the blend of glamour and sports they epitomize, the Lakers have carved a niche that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. Their story is a testament to the power of sports in bridging gaps, fostering community, and creating a global brand that continues to captivate the hearts of many, both in L.A. and beyond.

Originally published at https://steventaylorlandlord.blogspot.com.