February 4, 2015

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: PAUL WILLIAMS & LEWIS LATIMER




It's officially black history month and no time like the present to learn about two African Americans who played very instrumental roles in Home & Decor. Grab a snack, or a glass of wine and get ready to read some awesomeness


DESIGN by PAUL
Paul Williams was a renowned Hollywood Designer/Architect during his time; he was the first African American member of the American Institute of Architects and became known for architecture/designs, which were stylized & elegant. You can credit him for designing the Los Angeles Airport, the Polo Lounge, The Crescent Wing of the Beverley Hills Hotel as well as the signature sign of the Beverley Hills Hotel. He also designed some of the  most popular homes in Hollywood. He built homes for many celebrities such as Sinatra, Cary Grant, Lucille Ball & Desi Arnaz. In 1923 Paul R. Wiliams became the first black architect to become a member of the American Institute of Architects. In 1957 he was the first black fellow to be inducted into the AIA. During his career he designed over 25,00 homes in Southern California! 

LAX Airport 



Beverley Hills Hotel Sign

Beverley Hills Polo Lounge



 Lucille Ball & Desi Arnaz Palm Spring Home



Lucille Ball & Desi Arnaz Palm Spring Home {back & pool area}


Lucille Ball & Desi Arnaz Palm Spring Home {indoor/outdoor living area near pool}

***FUN FACT***
Paul Williams had developed the ability to sketch upside down to accommodate white clients who did not want to sit next to him. 



LIGHT by LEWIIS

I always say lighting is to a room what earrings are to an outfit. Well if it wasn't for Lewis Latimer we wouldn't be able to enjoy the luminosity of beautiful lighting fixtures. While many think of Thomas Edison as the inventor of the light bulb, Edison's light bulb only burned for a few minutes, Lewis worked in the laboratory with both Edison ad Alexander Graham Bell. It wasn't until Lewis Latimer invented the carbon filament, which allowed the light bulb to burn for a few HOURS instead of minutes! Next time you are admiring your beautiful light fixture don't forget to think about good ol' Lewis Latimer. 




You just learned a piece of American History you probably weren't aware of. Well, you are very welcome! If you have any further info about Lewis or the handsome Paul, please drop this nuggets and gems below in my comment section. See you next week!




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