The 12 buildings of this study, identifiable the world over, demonstrate the personality and power of Los Angeles as a major metropolis. Their stories are the story of a city in progress, an urban biography that tells a century's worth of history. The architect of the Bradbury Building accepted the commission after consulting a ouija board and was inspired by a futuristic novel written in the late 1800's; in 1984 the building became a set for the futuristic-noir film "Blade Runner". The Jetson-style LAX Theme building provides an indelible image of one of the world's busiest airports; however, few know the poignant story of its designer, Paul Williams, one of Los Angeles's most important African-American architects. Frank Gehry's design for the Disney concert Hall suffered criticism, public apathy and political frustration: in 1999 construction officially began on what will arguably be the city's most visible and popular landmark. Other buildings discussed include Griffith Conservatory, the Getty Center, Watts Tower, and Case Study House #22.
- ISBN10 1890449083
- ISBN13 9781890449087
- Publish Date 1 February 2001
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 19 December 2011
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Balcony Press,U.S.
- Edition Illustrated edition
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 120
- Language English