The Architect of Hollywood

The Architect of Hollywood

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.

Los Angeles is rich with architectural diversity. On the same block, you could find a retro-futuristic Googie diner next to a Spanish-style mansion, sitting comfortably alongside a Dutch Colonial dwelling, all in close proximity to a Deconstructivist concert hall. In the golden era of Hollywood, in the 1930s, 40s and 50s, the new movie industry titans who flocked to L.A. had an opportunity to construct whatever style houses they wanted. After all, Los Angeles had a lot of open space to develop, and no unifying architectural style. And there was one particular architect who could make any kind of building and make it well: Paul Revere Williams. Avery Trufelman reports.

The Architect of Hollywood

Live in LA with Helen Zaltzman 4/14, use code “savethearts” for special $20 tickets

Vote for Roman as “Best Host” in the Webby Awards

Don’t forget: Radiotopia Live, May 8- 12!