This building was originally built in 1962 for the U.S. branch of Japanese department chain store, Seibu (pictured). From 1964-1986, it operated as Ohrbach's department store. Many years later, Robert E. Petersen, founder of Hot Rod and Motor Trend magazines purchased the building, and along with his wife, Margie, founded the $40 million dollar Petersen Automotive Museum on June 11, 1994. The historic building, designed by Welton Becket and Associates, is located at 6060 Wilshire Boulevard. Finishing touches to the gleaming facade of Los Angeles' newest department store, Seibu, are added as doors open for the first time on March 14, 1962. Across the street is May Co. Wilshire department store. The pair will be friendly competitors.
May Company California Seibu Group Department stores--California--Los Angeles Wilshire Boulevard (Los Angeles, Calif.) Herald-Examiner Collection photographs Welton Becket and Associates
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