Johnny Grant Building Explained

Johnny Grant Building
Nocat:yes
Nrhp Type:cp
Partof:Hollywood Boulevard Commercial and Entertainment District
Partof Refnum:85000704
Coordinates:34.1014°N -118.3422°W
Built:1919
Architect:Frank Meline
Architecture:Renaissance Revival
Designated Nrhp Type:April 4, 1985

The Johnny Grant Building, also known as Arthur Murray, is a historic two-story building located at 7024 W. Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. It was formerly home to a Arthur Murray Dance Studio[1] and is currently part of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel complex.[2]

History

The Johnny Grant Building was built in 1919 by Frank Meline, the same architect responsible for the Garden Court Apartments that once stood nearby. It was constructed of wood and designed in the Renaissance Revival style, and features a red tiled roof, stone detailing, and six second-story arched windows.[2]

Upon opening, the second-floor housed Meglin Dance Studio and later an Arthur Murray Dance Studio,[1] with the building sometimes called Arthur Murray due to its second second-floor tenant.[2] Gypsy Rose Lee rehearsed in this studio in the 1930s, while performing in downtown's Paramount Theatre.[1]

In 1984, the Hollywood Boulevard Commercial and Entertainment District was added to the National Register of Historic Places, with Arthur Murray listed as a contributing property in the district.[2]

In 1995, the building was named the Johnny Grant Building in honor of Hollywood's longtime honorary mayor, Walk of Fame chairman, and good will ambassador Johnny Grant.[1]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: The Johnny Grant Building - Hollywood Historic Site . . July 15, 2024 . en-US.
  2. Web site: National Register of Historic Places Inventory Nomination Form - Hollywood Boulevard Commercial and Entertainment District . . April 4, 1985 . en-US.