Los Angeles is a city of instant recognition. Like characters in a movie, each of the thirteen landmarks of Iconic LA has played a role in an unfolding human drama complete with political intrigue, personal struggle, tragedy and triumph. Their stories are the story of a city in progress, an urban biography that tells a century’s worth of history.

The architect of the Bradbury Building accepted the commission after consulting a Ouija board and was inspired by a futuristic novel written in the late 1800’s.

The Jetson-style LAX Theme Building provides an indelible image of one of the world’s busiest airports. On the surface it symbolizes a modern outlook, but in contrast, the story of its designer, Paul Williams, is a poignant tale of difficult social times.

From its dusty beginnings as a mission outpost to its status as the ultimate urban laboratory, innovation and invention have continued in this land sometimes called Eden.

The Author
Gloria Koenig is an award-winning short story writer and journalist whose work has appeared in numerous publications including the Los Angeles Times. A Los Angeles resident, she brings an informed literary sensibility to an historical exploration of the city's architectural heritage.