In a surprising turn of events, a rundown establishment known more for its dismal online reviews than its grandeur, the Hollywood Premiere Motel, has officially cemented its place in Los Angeles history. This unassuming structure, famously sporting a mere 1.7-star rating on TripAdvisor, has been formally designated a Historic-Cultural Monument, marking an unprecedented first for a motel in the city’s storied past.
The pivotal decision unfolded during a recent July 30 city council meeting, an assembly that seemingly brought out the comedic best in its participants. With every council member poised with a witty one-liner, the atmosphere was a mix of skepticism and bemusement regarding the nomination of a motel to such a prestigious list. Commission President Barry Milofsky himself voiced initial doubts, questioning the merit of the nomination.
Yet, in a city where public perception and glowing reviews often dictate success, the Hollywood Premiere Motel, located at 5333 Hollywood Boulevard, remarkably defied expectations. Despite its notorious reputation for less-than-stellar guest experiences, the vote to enshrine it on the Historic-Cultural Monument list was unanimous, highlighting a deeper appreciation for its unique role in the urban landscape of Los Angeles.
Beyond its recent historical designation, the Hollywood Premiere Motel carries additional significance. Built in 1960, the property features 42 units and boasts an iconic Googie-style neon sign, a distinctive architectural element that captures the mid-century modern aesthetic of Southern California. Its architect, a pioneering figure in her field, is notably only the third woman to have a building included on this esteemed list.
Like many structures embedded in the fabric of Los Angeles, this historic motel has also served as a versatile backdrop for numerous creative endeavors. Its distinctive facade and interiors have appeared in a diverse array of projects, including the popular series “Mad Men” (specifically Season 3), and famously featured in Justin Timberlake’s upbeat “Can’t Stop the Feeling” music video, further solidifying its status as a unique Los Angeles landmark.
The Historic-Cultural Monument list itself is a fascinating tapestry of Los Angeles’s architectural and cultural heritage, encompassing everything from the widely recognized Griffith Park Observatory to the beloved French restaurant Taix, and now, the Hollywood Premiere Motel. This eclectic collection underscores the city’s commitment to preserving diverse aspects of its past, recognizing value beyond traditional notions of grandeur.
It is crucial to understand that while inclusion on this prestigious list acknowledges a structure’s cultural significance, it does not automatically confer absolute protection against future development or demolition. The designation primarily mandates that the Office of Historic Resources must review any permit applications for alterations to the building, and an environmental review is required before any demolition proceedings can commence, ensuring careful consideration of its historic value.
Before any eager history enthusiasts rush to book a stay at this newly celebrated historic motel, a cautionary glance at those infamous TripAdvisor reviews might still be advisable. While the most recent review dates back to 2018, with one particularly blunt assessment describing the locale as resembling a “snuff film set,” it playfully reminds us that in Hollywood, the facade often speaks louder than the reality within, proving that the exterior truly matters.
