MacArthur — Identity
The building was the combined dream of financier Bernhard Beinecke, hotelier Fred Sterry, and Harry S. Black, President of the Fuller Construction Company. Construction of the 19-story building took two years and cost $12 million – an unprecedented sum.
Originally built for the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the owners sought to create a memorial for members who lost their lives during World War I. The MacArthur was designed by renowned Art Deco architect Claud Beelman during his time as Senior Partner at the prestigious firm Curlett + Beelman. The elaborate interior murals and decorative paintings were designed by Anthony Heinsbergen and Co. The central design of the lobby ceiling is based on the Villa Madama, a Renaissance era project by Raphael and Giulio Romano.
After the Elks sold the building, it was transformed into the luxurious Park Plaza Hotel situated beside MacArthur Park. Recently rebranded as The MacArthur, the property is no longer an operational hotel, but is exclusively available for events and filming.
Created while Creative Director at Funkhaus
