May 20, 2021

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Janna and Terrina Wong

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Gin D. Wong, FAIA was one of a unique group of Chinese-American architects who helped define the postwar architecture of Los Angeles. Against seemingly insurmountable odds, including racial covenants in mid-century Los Angeles, Wong persevered to forge a distinguished career.

Wong helped found William L. Pereira & Associates in 1958, where he ultimately became a partner and the firm’s president. Wong was instrumental in creating some of Los Angeles’ greatest Modern structures. He served as design director for Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Other projects included CBS Television City and downtown’s Union Oil Center (now Los Angeles Center Studios). He founded Gin Wong Associates (GWA) in 1974. The internationally recognized firm specializes in the design and planning of corporate headquarters, commercial and retail spaces, hotels, educational facilities, and university campuses. GWA designed the Arco Tower (now 1055 West Seventh), one of the most prominent Modern skyscrapers in downtown Los Angeles. Built of granite, glass, and steel, it was constructed in 1989 as the last of the three towers for the headquarters of the Atlantic Richfield Company.

Date

May 20, 2021

Location