Known worldwide for his pioneering work in design and development, architect John Portman introduced his innovative concept of the “atrium hotel” to Los Angeles in the form of the Hotel Bonaventure. This stunning and unique 112-meter-tall structure stands in DTLA (Figueroa Street), evoking a vision of the future using circular shapes, massive forms, and the concept of space as an experience.
The hotel’s exterior, with its 1,358 rooms, is composed of four mirrored cylinders surrounding a central tower slightly taller than the others. The towers rest on a six-story concrete base, reminiscent of a rocket on a launch pad. Adding another futuristic dimension to the hotel, pedestrian walkways above the city streets connect the hotel’s second and sixth floors with surrounding buildings.
Inside, massive circular concrete forms rise seven stories from reflecting pools to connect with curved hallways leading to lounge areas, dining, and shopping. In each quadrant of the atrium, dark glass elevators surrounded by reflecting pools shoot through the glass roof to the exterior of the building. A rotating cocktail lounge offering spectacular 360-degree views of Los Angeles is located on the 35th floor of the central tower.
The Bonaventure Hotel’s design reflects Portman’s philosophy of creating architectural spectacles that transform both cityscapes and the experience of the people within them. His emphasis on open, communal spaces and the integration of interior and exterior elements marked a departure from traditional hotel design, favoring an immersive, experiential approach. The Bonaventure’s distinctive silhouette and Portman’s innovative use of space have made it an iconic part of the Los Angeles skyline and a beloved landmark.
Its cultural and cinematic significance is also noteworthy. The climax of the Clint Eastwood-starring movie ‘In the Line of Fire‘ (1993) took place in this hotel. The Bonaventure also appeared in ‘True Lies‘ (1994), ‘Forget Paris‘ (1995), ‘Blue Thunder‘ (1983), and ‘This Is Spinal Tap‘ (1984). It played a crucial role in the film ‘Nick of Time‘ (1994); and was depicted as destroyed at the beginning of ‘Escape from L.A.‘ (1996) by John Carpenter.
These film appearances not only showcase the hotel’s unique architectural design but also its embodiment of a certain type of modern, urban aesthetic that has come to be associated with Los Angeles itself. The Hotel Bonaventure remains a quintessential example of John Portman’s visionary impact on modern architecture and urban planning.
