Occidental Life Building, Commercial building in Downtown Albuquerque, US.
The Occidental Life Building is a commercial structure in downtown Albuquerque, constructed with white terra cotta tiles, pointed arches, and quatrefoil windows in Venetian Gothic Revival style. The structure combines European stylistic elements with practical American office design from the early 1900s.
The building opened in 1917 and shaped Albuquerque's commercial skyline in the early 20th century. After a fire in 1933, architect W. Miles Brittelle preserved the outer walls while completely rebuilding the interior.
The name reflects the Occidental Life Insurance Company, the original tenant that shaped its purpose. Visitors can still see the decorative details on the facade and entrances that show the connection to Venetian models.
The building sits at the intersection of Third Street and Gold Avenue in downtown, making it easy to find and access. A second story was added during a 1981 renovation, so the lower and upper levels differ in age and design.
The Denver Terra-Cotta Tile Company manufactured custom terra cotta elements for this building, including floral ornaments on the spandrels and capitals with pointed turrets. These hand-finished details show the craftsmanship that went into early American commercial buildings.
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