Googie Architecture: A reflection of the space age.

I suspect I'm not alone when I say that I am fascinated by the 1950s. The Eisenhower Era was one where major plot lines such as the atomic age, space age and the golden Hollywood age coalesced to form a very interesting and unforgettable chapter in the book of history, specifically American history. One can not help but be nostalgic for the images of 5 cent glass Coke bottles, pink Cadillacs, and legends of Hollywood swirling on the black and white screens of yesterday. The 50s were a cheerful pastel melange of new modern convenience, carefree consumerism, car culture, and renewed artistic attitudes that were badly craved in the immediate post WWII era. Abstract expressionism gained recognition in this period with noted artists such as William de Kooning, Jackson Polluck, and Franz Kline. All of these elements are reflected in the very distinctive architecture now labeled as "50s style" architecture which originated in southern California during the late 40s.


The Googie style buildings featured bold angles, pastel cheery colors, cantilevered roofs, large plate glass windows and pop culture imagery. Imagine "The Jetsons" meets real life. Some famous structures still exist, including the Theme building at LAX airport and the Space Needle (arguably our country's greatest needle) In Seattle. Unfortunately most contemporary architecture schools of thought regard Googie style buildings as too flashy and frivolous. In the 90s some effort was made to preserve famous buildings with this style however it remains a rare sight today.