West Hollywood, California (January 14, 2010) - The 1954 Googie-style “Hollywood Riviera” at 1400 N. Hayworth Avenue got a boost toward Cultural Resource designation when the WeHo Historic Preservation Commission gave it the nod in Monday’s meeting. 
The 1954 Googie-style “Hollywood Riviera” at 1400 N. Hayworth Avenue. WeHo News. |
The panel recommended the city council approve the designation for what staff describes as “an excellent intact example of post-war courtyard apartment housing design by the notable architect Edward H. Fickett.”
Located on the east side of Hayworth Avenue between Sunset Boulevard and Fountain Avenue, the Hollywood Riviera represents, according to the staff report, Mr. Fickett’s ability to successfully design housing for the mild Southern California climate.
The architect incorporated what became known as characteristic "Fickett" elements in these designs: low pitched or broad sloping roofs and high ceilings with exposed beams, generous use of plate glass set into deep wood framing and a mix of natural and synthetic materials including stone, stucco, fiberglass, steel and wood.
Most of these are designed with a focus on interior patios with swimming pools surrounded by lush subtropical plantings including banana trees, palms, yuccas, and [giant] bird of paradise.
The staff reported that the classic structure met the designation criteria because it is one of only several Fickett designed properties found during the recent cultural resource survey process.
The 1954 Googie-style “Hollywood Riviera” at 1400 N. Hayworth Avenue. WeHo News. |
John Keho, chief planner, told WeHo News that “several people spoke for the designation,” with no one standing against it.
The commission continued the other two hearings on the agenda – one for a 1912 Craftsman bungalow at 8867 Cynthia Street and for a 1913 Craftsman bungalow located at 1201 N. Clark Street.
The Clark Street bungalow’s owner has not allowed the city staff entry to the inside of the home to detail the conditions therein, and lacking that permission, said Mr. Keho, “the commission felt they did not have enough information about the application, and felt they should continue the item in hopes that the owner changes his mind.”
The Cynthia Street home failed to meet criterion for a stand alone designation but the commission directed staff to investigate including it into either the Old Sherman or Craftsman designation groups, ensuring its designation.
That hearing was delayed until next month’s meeting to allow staff time to carry out the direction.
Printer-friendly
E-mail to friend
