Galaxy Towers in Long Beach – Find Your Long Beach Condo

2999 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach CA 90803

Table of Contents

• All About the Galaxy Towers
• The Architects of the Galaxy Towers
• Common Questions
• Postmodern Architecture
• Galaxy Towers Inaugural Year
• Activities Near and Events Near the Galaxy Towers
• Dining Near the Galaxy Towers
• Interested in Buying or Selling?

Galaxy Towers

Address: 2999 E. Ocean Blvd
Long Beach Ca 90803
HOA: Galaxy Towers
Number of Units: 80
Sq Ft Range: ~1,510 sq ft
Year Built: 1967

All About the Galaxy Towers

As you leave Downtown Long Beach and Alamitos Beach, heading east, you will start to see more unobstructed Ocean Views vs. high rise buildings.  Of course just as you start to see a nice long section of grass with a few striking trees you might notice there is still one more high rise to take in.  The high rise that you will see, located on the northside of Ocean Blvd, is that of the Galaxy Towers.  It truly isn’t a building you can miss as it is the only high rise in Bluff Park.

The Galaxy Towers are the most eastern high rise condo development along Ocean Blvd. This is the only high rise in Bluff Park, so it commands a wonderful location with powerful ocean views.  This 20 story building was built in 1967 by the architects of Hugh & Don Gibbs.  Even as you travel the other streets of Bluff Park this development is quite noticeable providing you a landmark location at the corner of Orizaba Ave and Ocean Blvd.

In a testament to the innovative vision of Hugh and Don Gibbs, you will find a building that was developed to capitalize on unobstructed ocean views.  To help residents maximize their daily living the Galaxy Towers units were designed where you won’t have any common walls providing for an exceptionally quiet living experience.

With 80 condos here you would think that there would often be a unit available for sale, but that isn’t the case.  The residents here typically hold on to their properties for quite some time so often there are only a couple of units available so keep your eye out carefully if you want to call this location home.

Find Out More About the Galaxy Towers

• Unique Floor Layout – With 80 units and 20 floors you might have already done the math…and you would be right.  The distinctive configuration of the building allows for only 4 units on each floor where each unit does not share a common wall.  This unique layout provides for an extra level of privacy for you to enjoy your condo.
• Heating – Typical with 1960’s buildings you will find this condo has radiant heat.  This type of heating is heat run by electricity with coils in the ceiling allowing the heat to “radiate” down to the room.
• Balconies – With a prime location that is unobstructed from other towers you will want to truly see the commanding views from these units.  You can find sliding glass doors from the living room area and the master bedroom to truly enjoy coastal or city views.
• Parking – There is secured subterranean parking here.  Check your title insurance and HOA documents for your parking assignment and the number of space(s) that come with your particular condo.

The Galaxy Towers offer truly unique floor plans that embrace light.  Here you can find 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condos (and an occasional 3 bedroom) with floor plans up to 1,510 sq ft.  You will find units here that have been extensively remodeled and others that have not been updated in years which can allow you to create your own vision.  The nice part is that regardless of condition you will have some amazing views.  This high rise was developed to embrace the wonderful weather so you will find that you also get a nice sized balcony.

If you would like more information our expert Long Beach agents will be happy to give you more information about what is currently available.

The Architects of the Galaxy Towers: Hugh and Don Gibbs

When a building stands out (and that isn’t always the case) it is good to know who was the original visionary of the building.  In the case of the Galaxy Towers, the architects that had the vision for this condo development in Long Beach are Hugh and Don Gibbs (the firm is now known as Gibbs and Gibbs and is still located in Long Beach).

The firm was founded by Hugh Gibbs who is a graduate of the USC school of architecture.  He started his firm in 1934 and by the time the Galaxy Towers was completed in 1967 he had already had an illustrious architecture career.  His passion for real estate was recognized by his son, Don, who also graduated from USC and joined his father’s firm in 1961.  To have a young architect and an experienced veteran working on a premier Bluff Heights location it is no wonder the project has stood the test of time.

Community-Centric Approach: Shaping the Urban Landscape

Hugh and Don Gibbs Architects are deeply committed to enriching the communities they serve through thoughtful and sustainable design practices. From revitalizing historic neighborhoods to fostering urban renewal initiatives, the firm actively engages with local stakeholders to create spaces that reflect the cultural identity and aspirations of the community. Their projects have ranged throughout the greater Los Angeles area where they have had a substantial impact on shaping the urban landscape, but their innovative designs are known in projects from Burbank, Apple Valley and more.
Besides the Galaxy Towers in Long Beach Hugh and Don Gibbs designed local projects in Long Beach that include the Long Beach Naval Hospital, downtown YMCA, and the first buildings at Cal State Long Beach.  While the Naval Hospital and downtown YMCA have since been demolished they still have maintained their contributions to Long Beach architecture in the form of their own office.  The Gibbs and Gibbs office building is a prime mid-century modern building located within the neighborhood of Bixby Knolls.  From visionaries that have housed residents and customers alike it is a testament to their larger contributions to the city that their own office building has such a commanding presence.

Common Questions

Each condo development in Long Beach has aspects that make it unique.  When you are evaluating the Galaxy Towers we invite you to consider the most common questions that we have been asked to help you determine if this is the right complex for you.

What are the community amenities?

The Galaxy Towers were built to maximize a unique set of floor plans (try finding another that has units over 1,500 sq ft and no common walls) which means in this case the amenities here aren’t extensive but they do add to the enjoyment of living at this location.  Here you can enjoy a Barbecue, Outdoor Cooking Area, Storage Area.

What is included with the HOA fees?

This building is all about the views versus amenities.  With the Galaxy Towers your HOA will cover the common areas such as the barbecue, outdoor cooking area and parking.

Do the condos at the Galaxy Towers have inside laundry?

The condos at the Galaxy Towers do have in-unit washer dryer ability.  In some scenarios, when you purchase a condo listed for sale, you could request to buy or have the laundry appliance included with your purchase.

What is radiant heat?

In the listings of condos for sale at the Galaxy Towers you will see that the heat source is listed as “radiant heat”.  Radiant heat, in the aspect of condominiums usually means that the ceilings are heated and the heat then radiates throughout the property.  This was a very typical system of heating for condos in the 1960’s and is very effective.  Radiant heating here is powered by electricity which can increase your energy bill if used excessively and is something to consider when you are evaluating the Galaxy Towers; however, the temperate weather of Long Beach means you generally won’t need heating too often.

How are the appliances powered?

One nuance of the Galaxy Towers, that is common among many condo developments, is that the ovens/ranges are powered by electricity vs. a gas range.

Do the units have secured parking?

Here you will enjoy secured parking which is extremely valuable in the beach areas.  You will have to check your particular condo that you are interested in as despite the units being primarily 2 bedrooms, you will notice that they can come with 1 parking space.

Architectural Style of the Galaxy Towers: Postmodern Architecture

The 1960’s was a decade known as an incredibly influential era of architecture.  Many of the styles that were created during that time have stood the test of time attracting raving fans more than 60 years later.  During this decade you would have seen the styles of Brutalist Architecture, Postmodernism, Modern Architecture, Mid-Century Modern, and Organic Architecture. 

With all of these styles to choose from, Hugh and Don Gibbs developed the Galaxy Towers in Long Beach to epitomize the architectural style known as postmodernism. Emerging in the late 20th century as a response to the rigidity of modernism, postmodern architecture sought to break free from the constraints of uniformity and embrace a more eclectic and expressive approach to design.

Characteristics of Postmodern Architecture

Each architectural style has items that truly define it.  To help you decide if living at the Galaxy Towers and embracing postmodern architecture is right for you consider the following characteristics.

1. Eclecticism: One of the defining features of postmodern architecture is its eclectic nature, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of architectural traditions, historical periods, and cultural influences. This eclecticism is evident in the Galaxy Towers, where elements of classical architecture are juxtaposed with modern materials and form
2. Historical References: Postmodern architects often incorporate references to historical architectural styles, albeit in a playful and sometimes ironic manner. In the case of the Galaxy Towers, one might observe nods to classical columns or decorative motifs reinterpreted in a contemporary context.
3. Aesthetic Diversity: Unlike the uniformity of modernist architecture, postmodernism celebrates aesthetic diversity and complexity. This can be seen in the Galaxy Towers through the use of varied materials, colors, and shapes, creating a visually dynamic and engaging built environment.
4. Contextual Sensitivity: Postmodern architects place a strong emphasis on contextual sensitivity, responding to the surrounding urban fabric and cultural landscape. While the Galaxy Towers stand as distinctive landmarks in Long Beach, they also harmonize with the coastal setting and the vibrant energy of the city.  It only takes walking into a unit to see how the orientation of the building truly embraces its coastal setting.
5. Symbolism and Meaning: Postmodern architecture often incorporates symbolism and meaning into its design, engaging with broader cultural narratives and societal themes. The Galaxy Towers may evoke notions of progress, aspiration, or civic pride, reflecting the spirit of Long Beach and its residents.

Distinctive Features of the Galaxy Towers

When you drive along Ocean Boulevard it is hard not to notice the Galaxy Towers.  It stands out as a striking high rise in Bluff Heights and if you have never been in a unit you can only imagine the powerful views that those owners are able to enjoy gazing out to the Pacific Ocean.

1. Playful Geometry: The Galaxy Towers feature bold geometric forms and playful asymmetry, reflecting the spirit of experimentation and innovation characteristic of postmodern architecture. The interplay of angles and curves creates a sense of dynamism and movement, capturing the imagination of passersby.
2. Mix of Materials: Postmodern architecture embraces a mix of materials, textures, and finishes, eschewing the monolithic uniformity of modernist structures. The Galaxy Towers may incorporate a variety of materials such as glass, steel, concrete, and stone, juxtaposing sleek surfaces with more tactile elements to create visual interest.
3. Expressive Detailing: Postmodern architects often employ expressive detailing to imbue their buildings with character and personality. The Galaxy Towers may feature ornamental flourishes, decorative motifs, or whimsical elements that add depth and richness to the architectural composition.
4. Contextual Integration: While standing out as modern landmarks, the Galaxy Towers also integrate seamlessly with their surroundings, responding to the scale, rhythm, and character of the urban context. This contextual sensitivity ensures that the towers enhance rather than detract from the overall urban fabric of Long Beach.

Contrasts with Other Architectural Styles

Compared to the stark minimalism of modernist architecture or the futuristic vision of late 20th-century high-tech architecture, postmodernism offers a more nuanced and nuanced approach to design. While modernism prioritized functionality and simplicity, postmodern architecture embraces complexity, diversity, and a sense of place. In contrast to the utopian aspirations of modernism, postmodernism acknowledges the plurality of perspectives and the richness of historical tradition, resulting in buildings that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Key Historical Events of 1967: The Year the Galaxy Towers Was Built

The saying goes that “art imitates life” and in the case of architecture historical and economic events can influence the development of a particular building.  To understand the significance of the Galaxy Towers we encourage you to consider key historical events that were occurring during the year it was completed.

Summer of Love:

1967 is often remembered as the “Summer of Love,” as thousands of young people converged on San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district to celebrate peace, love, and counterculture. The hippie movement, with its emphasis on free love, psychedelic music, and anti-establishment values, captured the imagination of a generation and became a defining symbol of the 1960s.  Could the “Summer of Love” inspired Hugh and Don Gibbs to create the innovative design where the floor plans are strikingly open and embrace the beauty of the Pacific Ocean?  

Space Exploration:

In the realm of space exploration, 1967 saw both triumph and tragedy. The United States successfully launched the unmanned Apollo 4 mission, a crucial step in the Apollo program’s goal of landing a man on the moon. However, tragedy struck in January when a fire broke out during a pre-launch test of the Apollo 1 spacecraft, killing astronauts Gus Grissom, Ed White, and Roger Chaffee. The incident highlighted the risks inherent in space exploration and led to significant safety improvements.  Innovative designs and sharper lines in the automotive world that embraced space exploration are widely known during this period and it certainly could have influenced the striking lines that make the Galaxy Towers incredibly unique.

Cultural Change and a Change in the Long Beach Landscape

As the Galaxy Towers began to rise in Long Beach in 1967, the world was in the midst of profound social, cultural, and political upheaval. From the hippie movement and civil rights struggles to the Vietnam War and space exploration, the events of that tumultuous year continue to resonate with us today, shaping the course of history and reminding us of the enduring power of human resilience and aspiration. As these events shaped the cultural landscape it isn’t entirely surprising that the Galaxy Towers helped shape a different view in the Bluff Heights neighborhood.

Activities and Events Near the Galaxy Towers

When you choose a place to live, you aren’t just choosing that specific condo or home, you are choosing the neighborhood as well.  While it is easy to get nearly anywhere in Long Beach and in particular from the location of the Galaxy Towers you can quickly get to Downtown Long Beach or Bluff Heights, it is important to know what is very close to help you decide if this is the right condo for you in Long Beach.

Long Beach Museum of Art

The Long Beach Museum of Art occupies a prime location at 2300 E. Ocean Blvd, you will not only be able to enjoy the exhibits but a striking beach front location.  They are active in featuring different artists and have a hidden gem in the restaurant that is associated with the museum.  The restaurant of Claire’s has nearly 1,300 reviews on Yelp and nearly 700 on Google and needless to say the feedback is stellar.  Combine their signature drinks with a great brunch (and much more) and you just might become an even bigger lover of the arts.

Art Theater of Long Beach

The Art Theater of Long Beach is a single screen movie theater that has been renovated to embrace it’s history that dates back to 1933.  This stunning example of Art Deco architecture features both first run and small independent films.  It is located near (about 1.2 miles away) the Galaxy Towers and is considered to be more at the southern point of the Rose Park South neighborhood; however, it’s close proximity makes it a great location to enjoy entertainment with a touch of history.

Shoreline Village

Just a short distance away you will find the seaside development of Shoreline Village.  Shoreline Village is a wonderful collection of restaurants, shopping and even activities for all to enjoy.  The restaurants are located along the water allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of dining while soaking in the views of the harbor.  Among the options here you will find the opportunity for harbor cruises, parasailing, pictures with parrots and much more.  It’s a wonderful location that you can enjoy on a regular basis or take guests from out of town to give them a sampling of what Long Beach has to offer.

Dining Near the Galaxy Towers

When you are looking for the right condo in Long Beach you might consider what restaurants are nearby, so close that you might even leave your car parked and stroll quietly for a nice night out.

La Parolaccia Osteria

Wonderful ambiance? A quintessential location in a quiet neighborhood? Incredibly delicious Italian food?  Yes you can have it all when you dine at La Parolaccia.  This wonderful location nearly resembles a gorgeous home in Belmont Heights but it happens to be a delightful restaurant.  Whether you decide to make the Galaxy Towers the place you call home or not, we recommend you put La Parolaccia Osteria on your list for dining.

LA ‘CROQUE

With a prime location just a few blocks from the water this is the sandwich shop you will want to put on your list when you are a resident at the Galaxy Towers.  Located at 371 Redondo Avenue they embody the European style of sandwich making.  Whether you want to enjoy their namesake of CROQUE MONSIEUR or the FRENCH STYLE FICELLE you won’t be disappointed.

MVP’s grill & Patio

When you are looking for the local favorite burger and sandwich shop, look no further than MVP’s Grill & Patio.  While they have a few locations in Long Beach the one that is closest to the Galaxy Towers is located at 2742 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814.  There will often be a line here, but when you see a menu that has burgers named: Mike Tyson, Kobe Bryant, Peyton Manning and more you will see not only do they honor the real life MVPs but you will certainly see why they have overwhelmingly positive reviews online.

The dining options near the Galaxy Towers are abundant and you can enjoy nearly every type of dining experience from casual to fine dining.  Take time to explore the variety of restaurants that make Bluff Heights and nearby Belmont Heights and Downtown Long Beach so popular.

Interested in Buying a Condo or Selling Your Condo at the Galaxy Towers?

When you are interested in selling your Galaxy Towers condo (or buying) there are many items to consider.  Regardless of whether you are selling or buying it is about understanding market conditions, the individual condo at the Galaxy Towers, upgrades/conditions, your goals, and even more.  Galaxy Towers condos occupy a unique part in the landscape of Long Beach Condos and getting the most from a sale or the best price on a purchase is about having the right real estate agent/broker to help you.  When you would like guidance, whether you are buying or selling please fill out our Long Beach Hot List and we will be happy to help.