historic diner renovation, central los angeles CA

This historic “googie” style diner has been used in many films, television shows and ads over the years.

The non-profit group protecting the site and working with the owners to retain the building’s historic significance want to highlight both its architectural and cinematic history.

In collaboration with our client, WGA is also working with the Los Angeles Conservancy, other local non-profit groups, owners and other preservationists to best decide how to protect, preserve, and give new life to the 1950s-era diner.

With the rich cinematic history of the building and its primary role as a shooting/set location in recent years — it hasn’t been used as a functional restaurant since 1997 — our design approach is to meld the technological and logistical role of filmmaking with the new function of the building: a visitor’s center for tourism in the area. Stage lights, props, booms and bounce boards would animate the space and give it the feel of a “hot set” in the midst of filmmaking, while welcoming visitors in to learn more about local histories, tours, and area museums.

SCHEMATIC & CONCEPT DESIGNS 2019