May Company Building, Streamline Moderne museum building in Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, United States.
The May Company Building is a five-story structure in Streamline Moderne style at the corner of Fairfax Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard. Its most distinctive feature is a gilded cylindrical tower at the corner, which serves as the western gateway to Miracle Mile.
The building opened in 1939 as a luxury department store for May Company California, helping shape the retail district's growth. After more than five decades as a shopping destination, it transitioned to a different purpose in the late 1900s.
The building represents a turning point in retail architecture, where commercial needs met artistic design through Streamline Moderne style. The fusion of practical shopping spaces with architectural flair continues to define the neighborhood's character today.
The building sits on Wilshire Boulevard at a central location with parking options near the structure. Its position on a major thoroughfare makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
The signature golden cylinder at the corner was carefully restored and remains one of the most recognizable architectural features in the entire district. This shimmering element is visible from many angles around the area and serves as a visual landmark for many visitors.
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