The Charming Mid-Century Dingbats Of Los Angeles (Beverly Hills: 2015, apartments)

[Exitus Acta Probat]

"The dingbat typifies Los Angeles apartment building architecture at its worst," California historian Leonard Pitto once declared. But the simple, boxy apartment buildings have become as beloved as they are loathed, and are as common as palm trees and parking garages to the Los Angeles landscape.


Dingbats took over during the development-driven era of the 1950s, many replacing craftsman bungalows and single-family Victorian homes—they offered inexpensive rents and living spaces.

Pics et al:

Photos: The Charming Mid-Century Dingbats Of Los Angeles: LAist

[DewDropInn]

Can't say that I ever heard them called Dingbats.... but I love, love, love those mid-century buildings. They are Southern California.

[BayAreaHillbilly]

I love dingbats. Much better for parking than the typical beehive they put in these days (and make you pay for parking). If I were to have to rent again I'd be trying to find a mid sized dingbat based complex with a pool.

BTW - we even have these here in the Bay Area, even in .... gasp ... SF!

I'd say they are an endangered species due to the densepack movement. Especially if in need of seismic upgrades - someone buying one now that is in need of upgrades may go for the tear down instead. On that note the Ogden Arms one is bowing in the middle. Stuff is probably rolling off of tables in some of the units.

[Robsteel17]

I am totally for historic preservation but I hope most of these get taken out someday. They are unfortunate vestiges of short sighted mid century excess. It is sad that these hideous stucco boxes took out the original Craftsmans and Victorians that used to line our streets. I will say though that they do have a place in many beach communities where they just seem to "fit" in there.

[New Horizons]

How can anybody not like the dingbat apartments! They're simple, modern, retro, and practical. Having your own intimate little parking spot underneath, it's the next best thing to a house.

Please Los Angeles, cherish these buildings. They're an iconic piece of architecture and once they're gone, that's it. Upgrade them or retrofit them for earthquakes if needed.

[theraven24]

I love dingbat architecture. May these buildings never be torn down.

[TurcoLoco]

I dig 'em too!

Isn't the photo in the article from the movie The Slums of Beverly Hills?

[bruhms]

they look so tacky and cheap and i think they look odd because it looks like the buildings have stilts.

[BayAreaHillbilly]

Saw something cool on a walk earlier today. A medium sized dingbat complex with not only a pool but its own boat ramp. How cool is that!

[Sunflowr]

I love the DingBat apartments. Im apartment hunting at the moment and I hope to find one! Im all for anything retro & of the 50's, 60's 70's. As long as I survive an earthquake, all is good.

Btw: here is an Instagram account dedicated to the beloved Dingbats.
https://instagram.com/dingbatsandmore/