Zucky’s Wall Sign

Approximately 25 feet in height from the sidewalk by 15 feet in width, the 1962 neon-lit Plexiglas lettering spelling “Zucky’s” symbolizes the economic and commercial development of the City during the 1950s and early 1960s. The Googie architectural style arose during these years as a means of attracting the attention of speeding motorists to roadside buildings and in this instance to the restaurant’s convenient relatively inexpensive 24 hour dining that was popular following the Second World War. Characteristics of the Googie architectural style include exaggerated and often colorful architectural elements combined with large brightly-lit signage.

Today, there are few examples in the City of Santa Monica of the Googie style as applied to restaurants, or commercial buildings in general, and coffee shops in particular.  In fact, the “Zucky’s’ wall sign may be the City’s sole example as reflected in this particular architectural style and property type.

Source:

1. City of Santa Monica Landmarks Commission Agenda. July 2005.