Marc Chevalier, Oviatt Building Historian.

This event is sold out and the waiting list is now closed. We are excited that this event was of interest to so many members, but we regret that the capacity for the tour was small. We endeavor to be able to set another date, but again, there will only be space for 20 guests and we cannot do more than two tours on any given day, as the Oviatt Penthouse is a business and they rent for events.

For the first time in over a decade, downtown Los Angeles’s 1928 architectural jewel —the Oviatt Building’s famed Art Deco penthouse— will open its doors to the ADSLA for an exclusive historical tour. Our guide will be ADSLA board member and longtime Oviatt Building historian Marc Chevalier, sharing anecdotes and secrets you won’t find in print. Enjoy a rare, in-person opportunity to see every room of this remarkably preserved penthouse through the eyes of its most knowledgeable historian.

The Art Deco Society of Los Angeles has been given the exclusive opportunity to host this members only tour of the renowned residence of James Oviatt, proprietor of the prominent haberdashery that once operated in the building to clothe Los Angeles’ elite, including many famous Hollywood stars.

And yes, you may take photos in the Penthouse. Video or audio recording of the tour is strictly prohibited.

Tickets will go on sale first to Sponsoring level and above members. An email will be sent to you with a link. If you are interested in upgrading your membership, please contact us.

TICKETS: $25

Members may purchase one or two tickets, depending upon membership level. Tour groups are limited to 20 people. In compliance with COVID protocol in Los Angeles, tour-goers must provide proof of two full doses of vaccine at the door.

Entry to the building will begin 30 minutes prior to your tour time. You must arrive NO LATER THAN 20 MINUTES PRIOR TO YOUR TOUR TIME. Guests will be taken by elevator to the Penthouse prior to the start of the tour. This will take some time, as the elevator capacity is limited. Once the last elevator goes up, there will be no way for the public to enter the building.

Oviatt Neon Clock photo: Anne Laskey. Oviatt Mailbox photo: Margot Gerber. Top photo: courtesy of Marc Chevalier.