THE HIGH TOWER ELEVATORLocation: Hollywood, CA
Accessibility: Easy Created: 1920s |
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There is Hollywood, and then there is Old Hollywood. Hollywood is a bustling place with movie screenings, museums and unique food trucks. Old Hollywood is a feeling of nostalgia and class brought on by landmarks and other places untouched by modern times. In the neighborhood of Hollywood Heights is a structure that stands out among stairs and foliage as a unique piece of architecture and history. The High Tower Elevator was built in the 1920’s and its structure was modeled after campaniles (free-standing bell towers) seen in Italy.
Between 1935 and 1956, architect Carl Kay designed the four buildings surrounding the High Tower Elevator. It is almost as though the elevator stands as a sturdy solider among the homes and meant to protect it’s tenants. While visually appealing, the High Tower Elevator serves an important purpose. It is for tenant use only, in the event that those who live in the High Tower Courts do not want to climb several flights of stairs to reach their front door.
But this hidden gem in the hills did not stay private for long. Soon, Hollywood set its sights on the beautiful star.
The High Tower Elevator has been featured in films: “The Long Goodbye”, “The High Window” and “Dead Again”. It was also seen in a 1961 episode of "Naked City" and mentioned in Michael Connolley’s novels: “Echo Park” and “The Closers”.
Visitors planning to ride the High Tower Elevator must understand it is for private use for the residents only and not accessible without permission or a key. However, thanks to one of the local residents, we had the privilege of actually riding the elevator. Click on the video above to watch our adventure!
Between 1935 and 1956, architect Carl Kay designed the four buildings surrounding the High Tower Elevator. It is almost as though the elevator stands as a sturdy solider among the homes and meant to protect it’s tenants. While visually appealing, the High Tower Elevator serves an important purpose. It is for tenant use only, in the event that those who live in the High Tower Courts do not want to climb several flights of stairs to reach their front door.
But this hidden gem in the hills did not stay private for long. Soon, Hollywood set its sights on the beautiful star.
The High Tower Elevator has been featured in films: “The Long Goodbye”, “The High Window” and “Dead Again”. It was also seen in a 1961 episode of "Naked City" and mentioned in Michael Connolley’s novels: “Echo Park” and “The Closers”.
Visitors planning to ride the High Tower Elevator must understand it is for private use for the residents only and not accessible without permission or a key. However, thanks to one of the local residents, we had the privilege of actually riding the elevator. Click on the video above to watch our adventure!