Uniform title: La Tijera Theatre (Los Angeles, Calif.) - UCLA Library Digital Collections Search Results

Description:: In the late 1940s and 1950s architects combined the fluid forms of the Streamline Moderne style with the square modules favored by International Style architects. In California a new form of modernism was developing that favored the use of natural materials, especially stone and wood, in architecture, foremost in residential building. These influences, however, were also felt in commercial buildings, especially in the suburbs. Hence La Tijera Theatre, on Sepulveda Boulevard in a growing suburban area near the airport. A streamlined automobile is entering the porte-cochere on the left.
Date:: 1948-49
Resource Type:: still image
Photographer:: Blakeslee, Alpheus A.
Collection:: S. Charles Lee Papers, 1919-1962

Description:: The auditorium walls curve towards the screen, interrupted in each side by a scalloped wall edge where the screen curtain, lit by indirect lighting begins. The effect is further enhanced by the continuation of a vine pattern on the walls in cut-out form over the front exit openings. Globes of light at the center of grilles concealing the ceiling fans neatly combine two functions. The ceiling is further decorated by a scalloped design painted around the light and ventilation fixtures.
Date:: 1948-49
Resource Type:: still image
Photographer:: Todd, L. A.
Collection:: S. Charles Lee Papers, 1919-1962

Description:: Round stools and round mirrors at the vanity counter and a curved banquette fitted to the curved wall of the ladies' lounge reinforce the Streamline look. Even the wallpaper, printed with a pattern of round tents, echoes the theme.
Date:: 1948-49
Resource Type:: still image
Collection:: S. Charles Lee Papers, 1919-1962

Description:: Lee's concept combines the flowing forms of Streamline Moderne, still considered the height of modernism, with the square modules and slim brick rectangular pylon borrowed from the International Style.
Date:: 1948-49
Resource Type:: still image
Photographer:: Hoffman-Luckhaus
Collection:: S. Charles Lee Papers, 1919-1962

Description:: A mural on the slanting and curved wall of the foyer depicts a workman carrying a heavy basket (of sugar cane?) and a woman kneeling, both in a tropical setting.
Date:: 1948-49
Resource Type:: still image
Photographer:: Lee, S. Charles, 1899-1990
Collection:: S. Charles Lee Papers, 1919-1962

Description:: Lee designed his theatres to be most effective at night. The tall neon sign seems to hang in the air above the building. A grid of round lights underneath the canopy forms a high marquee and illuminates the entrance. Translucent panels on the lobby walls glow invitingly and the aluminum frames reflect the light. The poster cases are illuminated internally and outlined by neon strips.
Date:: 1948-49
Resource Type:: still image
Collection:: S. Charles Lee Papers, 1919-1962

Description:: A curved banquette flanks the candy counter and popcorn machine. Bouquets of flowers on the shelf above the banquette indicate the photo was taken on opening night.
Date:: 1948-49
Resource Type:: still image
Photographer:: Todd, L. A.
Collection:: S. Charles Lee Papers, 1919-1962

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