top of page

Googie Architecture: Los Angeles' Enduring Love Affair with the Space-Age Aesthetic

Updated: Jul 31, 2023

Welcome to a World of Whimsy and Futurism

In the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles, where the sun kisses the Pacific Ocean, and the entertainment industry reigns supreme, there exists a hidden treasure trove of architectural marvels that transport visitors to a bygone era of futurism and playful design. Enter the whimsical world of Googie architecture, a style that once adorned the streets of this vibrant city with its daring and imaginative structures.

Photo Courtesy of the USC Archives

Unearthing the Origins

In the charming landscape of West Hollywood, a modest coffee shop known as Googie's opened its doors in the late 1940s, blissfully unaware of the architectural legacy it was about to create. Little did anyone know that this unassuming establishment would become the namesake and spark the birth of an entire architectural movement - the captivating world of Googie.


In 1949, renowned architect John Lautner wove his magic into the design of the West Hollywood coffee shop, now known as Googies. Its distinct architectural characteristics and striking aesthetics led to the endearing name "Googie," a loving nod to Lillian K. Burton, the wife of the original owner, Mortimer C. Burton.


As the post-World War II era enveloped the nation in a wave of hope and optimism, the prospects of space exploration, atomic energy, and futuristic technologies fueled the imagination of architects and designers. Eager to reflect America's boundless dreams for the future, these tastemakers, including Lautner, Shulman, Armet, Davis, and many more, created stylized contributions that would become a resplendent reflection of the nation's aspirations.


Join us as we delve into the captivating world of Googie architecture, where soaring rooflines and whimsical designs would briefly become the shining symbol of the American Dream itself. Discover how Googie emerged as a vibrant manifestation of America's dreams and aspirations, leaving a lasting impact on the architectural landscape and capturing the essence of postwar optimism like nothing else in history.


The Googie Aesthetic: Form Follows Futurism

At the heart of Googie architecture lies its distinctive and instantly recognizable aesthetic. Characterized by bold, upswept roofs that mimic the wings of a soaring spaceship, Googie buildings appeared as though they were ready to take flight into the cosmos. These gravity-defying rooflines imbued the structures with a sense of motion, even in their static existence.


Googie architects played with geometric shapes and swooping angles, indulging in curves and asymmetry. They adorned their creations with vibrant colors and playful neon signs that captivated passersby and hinted at the possibilities of a futuristic world. The goal was not just to build functional spaces but to inspire wonder and spark the imagination of all who beheld them.


Iconic Googie Landmarks of Los Angeles

To truly immerse oneself in the world of Googie, a visit to the "Theme Building" at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is an absolute must. Completed in 1961, this architectural marvel resembles a futuristic flying saucer perched upon four curving legs. With its observation deck, it was once a popular spot for locals and travelers to admire the planes taking off and landing at LAX. The Theme Building perfectly encapsulates Googie's out-of-this-world charm and stands as a testament to an era when the skies were no longer the limit.


One of the most iconic Googie structures in Los Angeles, the Bob's Big Boy restaurant in Burbank is a prime example of the style. It features a towering and exaggerated roofline, complete with a curving boomerang-shaped canopy that extends over the outdoor dining area. This location of Bob's Big Boy has been a beloved local landmark since it opened in 1949 - designed by renowned architect Wayne McAllister.


Ben Frank's Coffee Shop (Now Mel's Drive-In!): This exemplary example of Googie architecture left an indelible mark on the mid-20th-century landscape, adorning the Sunset Strip with its futuristic and dynamic designs, including upswept rooflines, bold geometric shapes, and vibrant neon lights. Positioned in the heart of the bustling Sunset Strip, it perfectly encapsulated the post-war optimism and the burgeoning car culture of its time, and was a lighthouse for the glitterati of a bygone era including Andy Warhol, The Rolling Stones, and many more. While Ben Frank's eventually bid farewell to its patrons, its legacy thrives through the beloved Mel's Drive-In, a cherished favorite by LA Explained fans, forever shifting California's car culture while it was at it (American Graffiti, anyone?)


Johnie's Coffee Shop in Mid-City: This Googie-style coffee shop, originally opened in 1956, stands out for its streamlined modernist design with space-age touches. Its dramatically cantilevered roof overhang and a neon sign that resembles a rocket ship add to its charm. Though Johnie's Coffee Shop has had its share of ups and downs over the years, it remains an architectural gem that has been featured in several movies and TV shows.


Covina Bowl, a beloved local bowling alley, is a prime representation of the Googie style with its distinct mid-century modern design elements. Built in 1956, Covina Bowl features a bold and eye-catching upswept roof, resembling the wings of a spaceship ready to take flight. The exaggerated angles and geometric forms of the building's facade contribute to the whimsical and futuristic charm that is characteristic of Googie architecture. The neon signs, retro interior decor, and iconic Googie roof have made it a local landmark cherished by the community.


The Rise and Fall of Googie

As the 1960s gave way to the 1970s, the fervor for Googie architecture began to wane. Evolving tastes in architecture, coupled with the rise of modernism and minimalist design, ushered in an era that favored clean lines and functional aesthetics over whimsy and flamboyance. Many Googie buildings faced demolition to make way for the sleek and unembellished structures of contemporary times, leaving behind only remnants of Los Angeles' Googie heyday.


Googie Resurgence: Preserving the Past for the Future

Despite the decline, the legacy of Googie architecture has not been lost to the annals of history. In recent years, a growing appreciation for mid-century modernism and architectural nostalgia has fueled efforts to protect and preserve the remaining Googie landmarks. These structures are increasingly recognized as important cultural artifacts that offer valuable insights into the aspirations and dreams of mid-20th-century America.


Various organizations and individuals have taken up the mantle of preserving these delightful relics. They advocate for the designation of Googie buildings as historic landmarks, fostering awareness of their significance in shaping the city's identity and architectural heritage.


Embracing the Googie Experience

For those seeking a unique and nostalgic adventure in Los Angeles, embarking on a quest to explore Googie architecture is akin to stepping into a time capsule. Venturing beyond the beaten paths of popular tourist attractions reveals hidden gems that tell a story of the city's whimsical past.


So, put on your explorer's hat, wander the lesser-known streets, and marvel at the eclectic buildings that pay homage to a time when the future was brimming with endless possibilities. As you stand beneath the sweeping wings of a Googie roofline or admire the neon glow of a vintage sign, let yourself be transported to an era when the world dreamt big and dared to reach for the stars. Googie architecture beckons you to indulge in its fanciful charm and embrace the timeless allure of Los Angeles' space-age aesthetic.


Our friend & LA Magazine Editor, Chris Nichols, has written a wonderful book on the topic (and much more) - check him out!



Photo Credits:

The Theme building LAX : The USC Archives
Theme Building LAX 2: Credit EditorASC via wikimedia commons
Googies Coffee Shop Exterior : waterandpower.org
Googies Coffee Shop Couple: Photo by Earl Leaf/Michael Ochs Archives
Johnie's Coffee Shop Exterior Side: Photo by John Eng
Johnie's Coffee Shop Exterior Front: Photo by Los Angeles Conservancy, 1995
Bobs Big Boy & Wayne Mcallister Photos: Bobs Big Boy Website
Covina Bowl Exterior: The USC Archives
Ben Franks (Now Mel's Drive-In): AP Photo / George Brich



30 Comments


jackssons
Jun 27

Overwhelmed by complex theories and endless essays? Pay Someone to Take My Online Philosophy Class for Me and let our qualified experts handle your assignments, discussions, and exams with clarity and precision. Whether it’s Aristotle, Kant, or modern ethics, our professionals provide well-researched, thoughtful responses to help boost your grades. Designed for busy students, our service is confidential, affordable, and fully tailored to your academic needs. Don’t stress over abstract ideas—pay someone to take your philosophy class today and get the academic support you need to succeed with confidence and ease.

Like

Guest
Jun 26

This was such an engaging read! The way Googie architecture captures the optimism and futuristic vision of post-war Los Angeles is truly fascinating. It's amazing how design trends reflect the cultural aspirations of an era.

As a student exploring architectural styles for a design module, I’ve found that understanding historical context is just as important as structure and aesthetics. While researching for a recent project, I came across some great tafe assignment help servies that made it easier to connect theory with examples like Googie. Posts like yours really add depth to that learning—thanks for the inspiration!

Edited
Like

Guest
Jun 25

Need help with assignment tasks that are piling up? AssignmentHelpPro is here to support students with expert academic assistance across a wide range of subjects. Our team of qualified writers delivers well-researched, plagiarism-free assignments that meet your university’s requirements and deadlines. Whether it's an essay, case study, research paper, dissertation, or coursework, we provide customized solutions to help you score better. With 24/7 support and budget-friendly pricing, AssignmentHelpPro makes academic success simple and stress-free.

Like

carter Anderson
Jun 18

Overwhelmed with deadlines and economic theories? Wondering if someone can take my online economics class for me? At takemyonlineclasss.com, we provide reliable academic help by taking your entire economics course on your behalf. Whether it's microeconomics, macroeconomics, or any other specialization, our experienced tutors have the knowledge and skills to help you succeed.

We handle everything—from weekly assignments and quizzes to discussions and final exams—on platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, and MyLab Economics. Our U.S.-based experts deliver accurate, high-quality work on time while maintaining 100% confidentiality.


Like

Guest
Jun 16

When academic stress hits hard, students across the Kingdom turn to Assignment Help Pro Saudi Arabia for reliable Assignment Help Online that truly delivers. Whether you're buried under engineering diagrams, case studies, programming tasks, or management reports, their experts create original, well-structured solutions tailored to Saudi curriculum standards.

But this service goes beyond just writing—it’s about building academic momentum. You get personalized support, subject-specific insights, and guaranteed on-time delivery without compromising quality. It’s fast, focused, and designed to help you excel in your coursework while freeing up your time for what truly matters—learning and succeeding.

Like

L.A. Explained Blog

HARBOR HOUSE .png

© 2024 by LA Explained,  EARTH EXPLAINED LLC (R)

All Rights Reserved.   

     

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • TikTok

CONTACT us

Thanks for submitting!

bottom of page