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550 Washington Street Designation Overturned
July/August 2021
 Photo by Julius Shulman Photography. Courtesy J. Paul Getty Trust. Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles (2004.R.10) |
The San Diego City Council overturned the historical designation of 550 Washington Street June 29, 2021. The iconic Mid-Century Modern building was designated at the February Historical Resources Board meeting under Criterion A, as a special example of San Diego's architectural development. But at the June hearing, led by Council President pro Tempore Stephen Whitburn, the councilmembers voted unanimously to grant the owner's appeal and revoke the designation. This paves the way for the owner to demolish this well-known landmark.
Designed by William S. Lewis, Jr. for Deems Martin and Associates architects, the monumental tower and its eye-catching aluminum tracery serve as a landmark in the Uptown region and demonstrate San Diego's role in Mid-Century Modern architectural development. The planned demolition of this structure would result in the loss of one of San Diego's most important and influential post-WWII buildings.
Though the designation was overturned, Council President pro Tempore Stephen Whitburn discussed the ongoing value of historic preservation to the San Diego community. Whitburn represents Council District 3, which includes the site of 550 Washington Street in Hillcrest, Balboa Park, and the city's oldest and most historic neighborhoods (Old Town, Mission Hills, Bankers Hill, North Park, and South Park, among others).
SOHO thanks you again for your valiant efforts and encourages you to visit 550 Washington Street soon to appreciate this renowned design in person for potentially for the last time.
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