800 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach Ca 90802
Cross Streets: Alamitos Ave and E. Ocean Boulevard
Table of Contents
- All About the Villa Riviera
- The Architect of the Villa Riviera
- Common Questions
- Gothic Revival Architecture
- Dining Near the Villa Riviera
- Villa Riviera’s Inaugural Year
- Activities and Attractions Near the Villa Riviera
- Understanding the Historic Building Designation
- Interested in Buying or Selling?
All About the Villa Riviera Condos in Long Beach
The Villa Riviera is one of Long Beach’s most prominent high rise buildings. Located at 800 E. Ocean Blvd, this historic High rise is commonly referred to as the building with “the green roof”. In fact that green roof is actually 30ft high and is capped by a 60ft tower that further adds to the prominence of the building. The details don’t stop at the towering roof as you will find details such as Gargoyles carefully perched on the roof line which is a style that further illustrates it’s homage to French Gothic architecture. The Villa Riviera, originally constructed in 1928, began its life as a hotel. Though a hotel for many years, it was converted to condos in 1991 and has been a prominent fixture for many years.
Occupying the location of Ocean Blvd and Alamitos Ave it has some of the most stunning city views and Ocean views of any building. Being 16 stories high it commands a wonderful presence in the Long Beach skyline that attracts visitors as well as future residents. This building is a registered historic building under the Mills Act which provides significant tax savings.
Located at 800 E. Ocean Blvd, this historic High rise is commonly referred to as the building with “the green roof”.
The Villa Riviera has a variety of floor plans available. From studios that can be just under 300 sq ft to larger 1 and 2 bedroom properties that can be over 1,200 sq ft you will have a variety of units to evaluate as you consider which one could be the best condo for your goals. Some of the most common sizes that you will find available will often be between 839 sq ft and 880 sq ft. Common to all condos will be the aspect of community laundry. After all it is a building that has some age to it, so inside laundry was not part of the plan when it was constructed in 1928. Parking here is limited and you will more than likely be on a waiting list to have a secured spot.
With over 134 condos in the building you will want to keep an eye on what is available here using our Hot List or the Free Long Beach MLS to help you find a unit that will meet your goals and exceed your expectations. Ocean view condos are the most difficult to come by and often do not last long on the market.
The Architect of the Villa Riviera, Richard King
The architect of a building is the one who has the original vision of how it should be placed on a lot of land, how it can capitalize on the location and even how it can contribute to the overall landscape of the city. With one of the most prominent locations in all of Long Beach, understanding the architect behind the Villa Riviera can help you to appreciate this building even more.
The architect behind the iconic Villa Riviera in Long Beach is none other than Richard King. Born in 1875, King became a prominent figure in the world of architecture, leaving an indelible mark on various cities, including Long Beach. Richard King was engaged by the developer, Lionel V. Mayell, who was a prominent developer during that time and engaged King on other notable projects as well.
Richard King’s influence extends beyond the Villa Riviera, as he played a pivotal role in shaping Long Beach’s architectural landscape. In addition to the Villa Riviera, King also designed the Breakers Building contributing to the city’s rich architectural heritage. It should come as no surprise that with oil being discovered in Long Beach in 1921, that Richard King was able to design key buildings that capitalized on the growth of Long Beach as an early seaside resort town.
Beyond Long Beach, King’s talents reached other cities, making him a notable figure in early 20th-century architecture. One of his most renowned projects is the El Cortez Hotel in San Diego, a historic masterpiece that stands as a testament to his architectural prowess. Additionally, King’s architectural footprint can be seen in the Chapman Building in Los Angeles, showcasing his ability to adapt his style to different settings and contexts.
As you examine a few of his contributions to architecture you will discover that he embodies Mediterranean and Gothic Revival architecture, creating structures that exude timeless elegance which is particularly evident in a development such as the Villa Riviera.
Common Questions About the Villa Riviera
Each condo in Long Beach has unique aspects about it and it can be challenging to determine the features and benefits of each development. Find the answers to the most common questions we have received about the Villa Riviera in Long Beach.
Why is the roof of the Villa Riviera Green?
The Villa Riviera has a green roof as it is made of verdigris copper and the copper has oxidized. While we are unsure when this current roof was put on, a copper roof can have a lifespan of 60-100 years. It certainly is a distinct feature of the Villa and makes it one of the most distinctive buildings in all of Long Beach.
Is there Parking Available at the Villa Riviera?
There are 100 parking spots available at the Villa Riviera. With 134 condos available you will have to evaluate your particular unit to determine if parking is deeded to that condo. Parking is included with your monthly HOA dues.
Do the Condos at the Villa Riviera Have Inside Laundry?
The Villa Riviera does not have laundry facilities in the individual units; however you will be able to enjoy the community laundry facility.
Are there community amenities?
Yes, the Villa Riviera does have amenities. When you are a resident here you will have an opportunity to enjoy the fitness center, ball room, grand lobby, sun deck, BBQ’s, private garden area with a fountain, community laundry facilities, secure parking, a 24-hour concierge, and a guest suite for resident guests.
What is included with the HOA fees?
HOA fees, in general, are designed to take care of the common areas of the building; however the HOA fees at the Villa Riviera provide for a bit more. At the Villa Riviera you will also enjoy having your utilities being paid for, as well as Cable TV and Internet with your monthly HOA dues.
Are those gargoyles that adorn the top of the building?
While many people refer to them as “gargoyles” the statues that are near the top of the Villa Riviera are actually called grotesques. Originally there were 30 grotesques that included a dog, a bear, a griffin and an eagle each 5 to 6 feet talls but it is rumored they were removed in the 1970’s. The missing grotesques were reconstructed by an expert restoration company, Spectra, during a 2 year renovation project that was completed in 2009.
Gothic Revival Architecture: The Heart of the Villa Riviera
While the Villa Riviera probably is most often referred to as “the high rise with the green roof” there is much more to this building than a distinct roof that can be seen from many vantage points throughout Long Beach. The architecture style of the building truly stands out on the Ocean Blvd skyline. The
Villa Riviera stands as a splendid example of Gothic Revival architecture, a style that emerged in the 18th century and experienced a revival in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This architectural style draws inspiration from the medieval Gothic structures of Europe, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and elaborate tracery.
Key Elements of Gothic Revival Architecture
When you look at modern high rises that adorn areas such as Long Beach or even Downtown Los Angeles it can be difficult to discern the style as in today’s era of development it is much more focused on the return on investment and price per square foot than “how can we make this building truly unique from an architectural standpoint?”. In the early 1920’s; however, while they still had to make a profit on their developments there was a true passion for distinctive design. Understanding the Gothic Revival Architecture of the Villa Riviera comes down to exploring a few key aspects of this style of architecture.
Pointed Arches:
One of the defining features of Gothic Revival architecture is the use of pointed arches. These arches can be found in doorways, windows, and other architectural elements. In the case of the Villa Riviera, these arches contribute to a sense of verticality and elegance.
Elaborate Tracery:
Tracery refers to the ornamental stonework that fills the openings in windows and panels. In Gothic Revival architecture, tracery is often intricate, featuring delicate patterns that create a visually captivating effect. The Villa Riviera showcases this detailing, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Ribbed Vaults:
The use of ribbed vaults, a technique originating from medieval Gothic cathedrals, adds a sense of structural sophistication to Gothic Revival buildings. These ribbed vaults create a rhythm of lines across ceilings and contribute to the overall grandeur of the architecture.
Buttresses and Pinnacles:
Gothic Revival structures often incorporate flying buttresses for additional support and vertical emphasis. Pinnacles, pointed towers or spires, further enhance the verticality of the buildings. The Villa Riviera’s incorporation of these elements adds a sense of drama and architectural flair.
Dining Near the Villa Riviera
When you are considering a condo in Long Beach one aspect that is fun to consider is what dining options are nearby? Especially with a condo located on Ocean Boulevard you want to know if you can simply leave your car parked and easily navigate your way to a number of dining options. While you could certainly search Google or Yelp to find out which restaurants rate the highest, we wanted to share a few local favorites that we have enjoyed to help you see if the dining options near the Villa Riviera match your tastes.
Fine Dining: 555 East American Steakhouse
Commonly referred to as “the 555”, it is located at 555 E. Ocean Blvd and is less than ¼ of a mile away from the Villa Riviera. The 555 has been a premier steakhouse in Long Beach since 1984 and is known for dry aging its steaks for 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 days bringing you rich and bold flavor that you likely haven’t enjoyed elsewhere. Along with these bold flavors of steaks you will have the opportunity to enjoy finely crafted cocktails or select a wine from their extensive list.
Fine Dining: L’Opera Ristorante
L’Opera occupies a prime location at 101 Pine Avenue, just barely off of Ocean Boulevard. When you want to experience fine dining with Northern Italian inspired dishes then this is the place to go. The restaurant is located in a building that was built in 1906 and that adds to the charm and ambiance. Each dish is carefully crafted and the wine list will provide you extensive options from all over Italy to the finest wineries in Napa Valley.
Casual Dining: George’s Greek Cafe
When your taste buds are craving for Mediterranean food you will certainly enjoy Geroge’s Greek Cafe. Occupying a great location on Pine Ave (135 Pine Ave) it is nearby other fine eateries but this place will certainly draw you in. The care they show in their cooking is evident in every dish from the Spanakopita, Lamb Chops, Gyros, Humus and much more. It is a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy a great lunch or dinner.
There are many restaurants in Downtown Long Beach and near the Villa Riviera. One of the beautiful parts about living in Downtown Long Beach is you have one of the richest densities of eating out of any neighborhood in Long Beach. Part of this is due to the density of condos, but also as Downtown is a central hub of Government activity as well as entertainment venues such as the Queen Mary, the Performing Arts Center, and the Aquarium.
Villa Riviera’s Inaugural Year: 1929 in Historical Context
When you are considering a condo in Long Beach whether that is in Downtown or another great neighborhood there is value in understanding the history of that area. Long Beach has a rich history, dating back to 1882 when it was founded and from that time to present day the city has experienced a variety of wonderful changes. Understanding a bit of the historical events that happened in the founding year of development of the Villa Riviera can give you a greater appreciation for this building and what was developed near there during that time period.
The Wall Street Crash (October 29, 1929):
Undoubtedly, the most significant event of 1929 was the Wall Street Crash, also known as Black Tuesday. On October 29, stock prices on the New York Stock Exchange plummeted, marking the onset of the Great Depression. This undoubtedly impacted the Villa Riviera as it was originally conceived as an “Own Your Own” stock cooperative or more of the early eras formation of what we would now call “condos” (although there are some differences). With the stock market crash it made the Own-Your-Own development unsustainable forcing the Mortgage Guarantee Company to foreclose on it in 1933. As is widely known, after the foreclosure, the Villa Riviera entered into its life operating as an Hotel for the next 22 years under different hotel operators.
The First Academy Awards (May 16, 1929)
While the first Academy Awards were held at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, the impact was felt through the greater Los Angeles area. The “Hollywood Halo” meant even in the early days of Hollywood that people would follow what celebrities would do and where they would vacation and that included Long Beach. At one point, in the early 1920’s Balboa Studios was a prominent independent studio and was one of the largest employers in Long Beach. Along with the impact of Balboa Studios people would flock to Long Beach on the weekends to enjoy the cozy beach and waves (the breakwater that eliminated the waves wasn’t put in until 1941-1949).
Herbert Hoover (March 4, 1929)
President Hoover took office in the midst of the Great Depression and from a practical perspective he suffered the consequences as he wasn’t able to get reelected as the economy was still struggling at the end of his term where he was easily defeated. The impacts of his presidency; however, are present not only from the projects, such as the Villa Riviera, developed during that time but larger infrastructure projects such as Highways and the ever famous Hoover Dam that was started in 1931.
The Villa Riviera is a wonderful example of a condo development that embodies a unique period in history. From starting as a Own-Your-Own, operating as a hotel, housing the Navy during WWII, and now being one of the premiere historic Long Beach condos with some of the most engaging views in all of Long Beach it certainly is a property that owns its own spot within the history books.
Activities and Attractions Near the Villa Riviera
When you are looking for a condo in Long Beach, one aspect to consider is what activities and attractions are nearby. Are there annual festivals? Is there a marathon that goes right by your condo? Are there local museums you can enjoy nearby? While you certainly could drive to any number of activities, events and museums you are going to find that with the Villa Riviera you have a location that is rich with activities and the arts. We invite you to consider a few highlights of what you can enjoy in Downtown Long Beach near the Villa Riviera.
Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the most popular aquariums in all of California and is located at the west end of Downtown Long Beach not too far away from the Villa Riviera (you’ll still be able to see the green roof). It boasts wonderful exhibits of sea otters, sharks, a wonderful aviary where you can feed parakeets and so much more. It is a place you can visit time and time again and enjoy every visit.
Long Beach Grand Prix (Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach)
If you are a fan of motorsports then you won’t want to miss the Long Beach Grand Prix. The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach has been a race that the city has embraced since 1975 where you can see cars race just below Ocean Blvd and along Shoreline Drive. Besides the premier Indy Car race you can also enjoy drifting cars that have been added in recent years. The race happens in mid April each year and you can expect a bit of traffic congestion and the roar of racing engines.
Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)
This museum is located at 629 Alamitos Ave which is the major cross street of the Villa Riviera and just ~6 blocks north. MOLAA was founded in 1996 and is currently the only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino Art.
Laugh Factory
At the Pike Outlets (a nice development of apartments, outlets, and shopping) in Downtown Long Beach you can have the opportunity to enjoy a night of laughter. While you might think the best comedy clubs are located in Hollywood; the Laugh Factory of Long Beach does a great job of bringing in the big names to give you the opportunity to enjoy a fun night out.
The list of activities, events, festivals, and the arts available in Downtown Long Beach is robust and could fill up endless volumes of pages on our site; just know that you won’t wonder what to do on any given weekend should you decide to call the Villa Riviera home.
Understanding Historic Building Designation with the Villa Riviera
With a city such as Long Beach, that dates back to 1882, you have the opportunity to enjoy a rich history of architecture. As you are considering different condos in Long Beach it is important to realize that just because a building is “old” doesn’t mean that it necessarily has any historic significance. The Villa Riviera, with a history dating back to 1929, not only has age on its side; it is one that is historically significant, but what exactly does that mean?
Consider the following elements that contribute to a historic building designation:
Architectural Significance:
To be architecturally significant the building can’t be merely typical of the era. Architectural significance implies that the building is unique, is evidence of excellent craftsmanship, and contributes to the heritage of that era. In the case of the Villa Riviera, the combination of architectural styles, along with an architect, Richard King, that made many contributions during that era, allow the Villa Riviera to easily meet the requirement of architectural significance.
Historical Significance:
This requirement is more nuanced as the definition implies that the building must play a significant role in historical events, periods or trends that contribute to the understanding of the community’s past. For the Villa Riviera it was developed during a time that was around the Great Depression; however, that in and of itself isn’t significant. More importantly it was developed during a period where Long Beach was mainly an area that people visited to enjoy the Ocean on the weekend, rather than live there full time. The Villa Riviera capitalized on this aspect of “visiting” as many of the units aren’t large but they capitalize on the view which made them perfect for a weekend visit.
Cultural Significance
For this aspect of historic designation the definition looks to understand if the building is associated with the cultural heritage of a community, representing the values, traditions or identity of a particular group. This particular aspect is hard to define for us; however, given it’s prime location and that it embraced an era of enjoying the Ocean and Harbor it is hard to argue that it didn’t contribute to the culture of that era.
Implications of Historic Designation
Getting a historic designation is not only something nice to talk about at cocktail parties it has a real economic impact. While the policies and time periods can change when a building is designated historic that can mean a reduced tax amount that is due. The objective in reducing the taxes owed is that the owner can use that savings to revitalize the unit to its original glory embracing its history along with the modern aspects that may be hidden, but can make daily living more enjoyable.
The Villa Riviera isn’t the only building in Long Beach to make it to the National Historic Registry, but it certainly might be the most famous. The hard part is deciding if this beautiful historic building is the right place for you to call home.
Interested in Buying a Condo or Selling Your Condo at the Villa Riviera?
When you are interested in selling your Villa Riviera 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 Villa, upgrades/conditions, your goals, and even more. Villa Riviera 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.
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