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Alongside Hollywood’s rise, a different phenomenon took hold: the construction of luxurious mansions along what is now Wilshire Boulevard. This street became a showcase for opulence, lined with grand homes built in styles ranging from Art Nouveau to Spanish Revival. The area attracted Los Angeles’ elite, eager to demonstrate their wealth and social standing.
The Ocean House: A Symbol of Hollywood Glamour
One of the most famous mansions was the Ocean House, built by media magnate William Randolph Hearst for his mistress, Marion Davies. Located near Santa Monica Beach, the estate boasted 110 rooms, lavish amenities, and an army of staff to serve its visitors. It frequently hosted glamorous parties with hundreds of guests and became a symbol of Hollywood’s luxurious lifestyle.