Heard of Superman’s Daily Planet headquarters? The E. Clem Wilson Building might ring a bell. Standing here at 5225 Wilshire Boulevard, look up. This Art Deco gem has a story that stretches far beyond its striking facade.
The E. Clem Wilson Building stands tall. It is a 182.5-foot midrise. It anchors the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. For nearly a century, it has marked the gateway to Miracle Mile.
Originally, the lot housed a Wilshire Highland Square sales office. A Gilmore automobile service station also stood here. In 1928, E. Clem Wilson purchased the lot. He paid a record $420,000.
Meyer & Holler designed and constructed the E. Clem Wilson Building. They were masters of their craft. They also built Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Egyptian Theatre. This building became the second of three tall towers defining Miracle Mile before World War II.
Over the years, the E. Clem Wilson Building has worn many names. It started as the Mutual of Omaha Building. Later, Asahi Breweries and then Samsung took their turn. Today, a blank blue sign sits atop.
In 1931, retail chain J.J. Newberry became a prominent tenant. In 1954, General Insurance Company remodeled the building under Welton Becket. Many remember the Mutual of Omaha sign from 1961. Asahi replaced it by 1991. Samsung took over the branding by 2002.
Notice the building’s Art Deco features. The two-story base fills the entire lot. Above, a ten-story zigzag Moderne tower rises. Multiple setbacks create a distinctive profile. Fluted square corner posts extend beyond the roof. Zigzag chevron molding adorns the parapets. Geometric ornamentation adds further detail.
Look closely at the tenth floor. Eight corner posts are topped with pinnacles. They resemble abstract men with ribcages. Flying buttresses support the building’s crown. Thin vertical piers rise from each window. Stylized figures enhance the design. The building retains its original metal-casement windows.
Inside, marble panels line the walls. The marble floor features geometric designs. Rectangular insets of white marble create triangles and diamonds. The lobby includes an entrance to the garage. This reflects A. W. Ross’s Miracle Mile design. It accommodates automobile-driving customers. A brass mailbox features a molded geometric design.
The E. Clem Wilson Building has been nominated as a Historic Cultural Monument. This recognizes its importance to Los Angeles history. It exemplifies the rapid development of Miracle Mile. The building represents a notable work by Meyer & Holler. It embodies the characteristics of Art Deco architecture.
So, as you stand before the E. Clem Wilson Building remember its layered past. From car sales to beer signs, this building reflects Los Angeles’ evolving story. It stands as a testament to architectural vision and cultural change.