If you’ve seen Blade Runner, you’ll surely recall its iconic scenery: a dark, rain-soaked Los Angeles in 2019 featuring the remarkable Bradbury Building, located just across from the Million Dollar Theatre. This architectural gem has become synonymous with cinematic history.
The interior of the building is nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a stunning Victorian court filled with natural light, intricate ironwork, and open cage elevators that transport visitors to another era.
The Bradbury Building is not only a stunning architectural landmark but also a prominent filming location featured in numerous films and TV shows. Notable appearances include Blade Runner, Chinatown, Lethal Weapon 4, Pay It Forward, The Artist, and 500 Days of Summer. Its unique aesthetic makes it a favorite among filmmakers and photographers alike.
Tom, the main character, came to the building for a job interview.
Constructed in 1893, the Bradbury Building is located at 304 S Broadway in downtown Los Angeles. This historic building was commissioned by gold-mining millionaire Lewis L. Bradbury and designed by draftsman George Wyman from an original design by architect Sumner Hunt.
The design of the Bradbury Building was influenced by Edward Bellamy’s 1887 sci-fi novel Looking Backward, which envisioned a utopian society filled with light and grandeur—a vision beautifully realized within this architectural marvel.
In Bellamy’s book, the average commercial building was described as a vast hall full of light, received not alone from the windows on all sides, but from the dome, the point of which was a hundred feet above.
For most of its history, the Bradbury Building has functioned as an office space while still welcoming visitors to admire its beauty. Currently, guests can explore up to the first landing, where they can appreciate its stunning architecture without disturbing tenants.
During my visit to Los Angeles, I had the opportunity to explore this magnificent building firsthand. If you find yourself in LA, make sure to visit this spectacular landmark—it’s an unforgettable experience that showcases both history and cinematic magic!
The original article was first published on BrandsAndFilms.com in January, 2014.
