849 Building

Also known as the Eastern Columbia Building, the 849 Building is a 13-story structure in the Broadway Theater District of the Los Angeles core. It was built in 1930, and many consider it to be among the most beautiful of the city's many historic buildings. Following the 1969 destruction of Richfield Tower, it is now one of the few surviving examples of Southern California's Art Deco movement.

When driving along Interstate 10, motorists can easily spot the building due to its unique, bright turquoise color. It is constructed of steel-reinforced concrete with a glossy terra cotta finish and deep blue and gold trim. Close up, observers can see that that the façade features a variety of motifs, including geometric shapes, sunburst patterns, chevrons, zigzags, and animal and plant representations. At the top is a huge four-sided clock tower. Other characteristics include neon lettering, a central smokestack, four flying buttresses, and a recessed two-story vestibule at the entrance.

The 849 Building is located just across the street from the restored Orpheum Theater at 849 South Broadway, Los Angeles, California 90012. In 2006, the property was turned into condominiums by a developer called the Kor Group. It now has a rooftop pool, a fireplace lounge, a gym, private security, and secure parking. Lofts and penthouses are available for $499,000 to $2,950,000.