Imagine oversized, colorful fragments fallen to earth. That’s the Pacific Design Center. It is a landmark that’s both loved and criticized. Let’s dive into the story of this West Hollywood icon.
The Pacific Design Center or PDC is the West Coast destination for global design. It is located at the corner of Melrose Avenue and San Vicente Boulevard. The PDC is home to over 70 luxury showrooms. They offer an unparalleled lineup of residential and commercial products.
In 1975, the “Blue Whale” emerged. Its outrageous size and hue made it an instant landmark. Cesar Pelli and Norma Merrick Sklarek designed it. They worked for Gruen Associates. The building was created as a multi-use facility for the design community.
The Green Building followed in 1988. It featured a huge, faceted, bright green design. Finally, the Red Building arrived in 2012. It offered class A creative office space.
The Pacific Design Center spans 1.6 million square feet. It presents nearly 100 boutique to international showroom brands. These represent 2,200 product lines. Professional interior designers, architects, and facility managers source them. Decorators and dealers also visit.
The PDC serves the design, entertainment, and arts communities. It provides spaces for screenings, exhibitions, lectures, meetings, special events, and receptions.
Inside the Pacific Design Center, you will find two restaurants. There is the Design Cafe and Silver Bullet Express. The SilverScreen Theater offers a luxury film venue. The Conference Center is fully equipped for meetings. A Michael Graves-designed Fitness Center is also available.
Cesar Pelli conceived the buildings as oversized fragments. They are united by central courtyards and walkways. The interiors are larger than the surrounding landscaped areas.
The Red Building has two towers. They join at the center on a raised plinth. A sky garden offers views of the Hollywood Hills. It also conceals parking underneath. The Red Building anchors the north side of the campus. It creates a public plaza with fountains and palm trees.
The Pacific Design Center is more than just buildings. It is a cultural icon. It established West Hollywood as an internationally renowned design district. As Cesar Pelli said, “As a gathering place, the Pacific Design Center created the environment for West Hollywood to happen.”
The Pacific Design Center continues to evolve. It hosts exhibitions and programs. These explore the intersections of art and science. You might see installations by various artists in the lobbies.
So, as you stand before the Pacific Design Center, remember its daring exuberance. It is a testament to design and innovation. It is a landmark that has shaped West Hollywood.