...................................................................................................................................................................
Restoring a Tradition
With much fanfare,
the luxurious Leamington Hotel in downtown Oakland first opened
its doors to traveling executives in 1926. Declared “an architectural
masterpiece,” the Spanish-style building’s architect,
W.H. Weeks, spent over $2 million to incorporate “every modern
idea in the hotel construction.” In those days, modern, ideas
included a $30,000 pipe organ, a complete local information bureau
for guest, and a fully-attended children’s playroom. Soon,
the whole Hotel became a playroom for the socially prominent by
hosting opulent gatherings for Oakland’s most wealthy citizens.
One
of the “Grand Dames” of East Bay hospitality, the Hotel
was fated to have several owners during its history. J. K. Leaming
sold it four years after building it, and in 1945 it underwent a
grand-scale remodeling, compliments of its new owners. Soon after,
changing times and changing designs prodded the slow but eventual
decline of this once-gleaming jewel. In 1981, the Leamington doors
were closed, a result of neglect which caused its bankruptcy.
Fortunately,
Oakland-based Portfolio Property Investors recognized that the Leamington
legend should not be allowed to die. With help from the City of
Oakland, PPI purchased the building restoring it and converting
it into first-class retail and office suites. The transformation
began in January 1983. The outside retained its terra cotta charm,
but the interiors, incorporated the most modern ideas in design
and construction. Below the new atrium and skylight now sparkle
oak, marble, brass and bronze detailing.
Once a symbol of gracious hospitality and elegance, the revitalized
Leamington opened its doors again. Portfolio Property Investors continually
owned and operated The Leamington for 32 years until its sale in 2015.
Click here for images
of The Leamington Building.
|
|