Crossroads of The World HABS Photography – HABS Photography Exposed

I should have posted these HABS photos back in 2023, after they were accepted into the Library of Congress HABS collections, but something probably came up. Something always does.

CROSSROADS OF THE WORLD
HABS No. CA-2965
6671 Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles

Historic American Buildings Photography of Crossroads of the World. — HABS Photography of Crossroads of the World.

Large Format Historic American Buildings Survey photography from July 2022.

Crossroads of the World (constructed in 1936-37) is historically and architecturally significant. It is significant in the history of commercial development in Los Angeles as a distinctive example of a pedestrian-oriented shopping center. The type was introduced in the United States after World War I and is characterized by a building complex with distinctive architecture and a mixture of mutually reinforcing tenants. While the property represents a range of architectural styles, those styles come together to form a cohesive whole with a whimsical, movie studio backlot setting.

The property is also significant as a prominent example of fantasy architecture and notable example of the work of Robert V. Derrah who is considered a master architect. The design and construction of Crossroads of the World was intended to make it a destination for the shoppers and a reflection of the merchants. The cultural climate of Los Angeles during this period was particularly receptive to the striking architecture, which went hand-in-hand with the creative energy of the budding film industry. From the HABS Historic Report by Teresa Grimes and Katheryn McGee.