Blackstone Building, Historic commercial building in Broadway Theater District, Los Angeles, United States.
The Blackstone Building is a six-story commercial structure in the Broadway Theater District designed in the Beaux Arts style, with large windows featuring multi-paned sidelights and an ornate denticulated cornice. The facade also displays decorative fluted corbels that frame the upper stories, while ground-floor retail spaces face the street with residential apartments occupying the upper levels.
Nathaniel Blackstone established the business in 1895, and architect John B. Parkinson designed this location, which was completed in 1916. The structure represents an important chapter in downtown Los Angeles' evolution as a retail and entertainment hub during the early 20th century.
The building was designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 2002, marking its importance as a record of the city's commercial heritage. Visitors walking past can observe the original architectural details that reflect how early 20th-century commerce shaped the downtown district.
The building can be viewed from the street to appreciate the facade details and architectural features, with walkable sidewalks along Broadway making it accessible throughout the day. The ground-floor retail spaces add foot traffic and activity to the area, making it an easy stop while exploring the Theater District.
The building appeared in the 1923 silent film Safety Last as a filming location for a memorable climbing sequence. This connection to early cinema history adds an unexpected layer of interest for film enthusiasts visiting the area.
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