Three Pasadena Projects, Historic Hollywood Theatre Win Los Angeles Architecture Awards

A trio of significant Pasadena developments earned honors at the Los Angeles Business Council’s 54th annual Architectural Awards ceremony, where over 450 industry leaders gathered at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. 

“This year the LABC is honoring projects whose inspired designs build on L.A.’s heritage and move the city toward a dynamic future,” Mary Leslie, president of the Los Angeles Business Council, said during the awarding on Friday. 

Among the winners was Dine Brands Global Inc., headquartered in Pasadena and known for operating IHOP, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop restaurants. The awards cited Dine Brands Global’s design as focused on the importance of seamlessly integrating the company’s multiple brands, energizing the workplace through connections, and showcasing continuous innovation in their culinary expertise. 

The Playhouse Village Park, situated in a district known for the historic Pasadena Playhouse, museums, galleries, and public art installations, also received recognition. In the awards citation, it was described as featuring a central lawn, children’s play area, dog run, parking plaza, and stage. 

“Designed with safety, inclusivity, flexibility, and year-round usability, it involved extensive community input. Despite space and parking challenges, the park integrates dual-purpose design for events and stormwater management,” the citation said. 

10 West Pasadena, a modern development adjacent to Old Pasadena, was honored for its pedestrian-friendly design featuring luxury residential units, office space, and retail offerings. The development includes energy-efficient features like operable windows, fresh air circulation systems, and concrete office interiors with high ceilings and abundant natural light. 

The grand prize went to the restored Netflix Egyptian Theatre in Los Angeles, which opened in 1922 and later became a historical landmark after hosting Hollywood’s first movie premiere.

After the American Cinematheque’s 1998 renovation, Netflix purchased the property in 2020 and partnered with the Cinematheque for a comprehensive two-year rehabilitation project. 

Studio 440 Architecture and Gensler led the restoration project, with EverGreene Architectural Arts reviving the original design elements while integrating state-of-the-art projection systems. 

To view a full listing of the awards, visit  https://labusinesscouncil.org/54th-architectural-awards/.