The historic Culver Studio Bungalows were dedicated last Wednesday in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The four bungalows had recently been renovated and relocated from a remote area. They now sit in a prominent location just behind the famed Culver Studios Mansion.
The project, which was monitored closely by Culver City Officials and a historic preservation consultant, involved constructing new foundations for the Culver Studio Bungalows and then carefully putting back each interior. Martin Feinberg, Realtor, was pleased to learn that all work was done in accordance with the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.
Michael Hackman, CEO of The Culver Studios, stated, “We take our responsibilities as stewards of this historic landmark extremely seriously. The legendary films made here are part and parcel of the very fabric of this studio, and we want to make sure that history is appropriately celebrated.
“By moving these landmark structures to a spot immediately adjacent to the historic mansion, we have effectively created a prominent node to showcase our historic structures within our walls,” he added.
Martin Feinberg, Real Estate Listing Agent, noted that Culver City officials and other local VIPs helped Hackman dedicate the bungalows.
Culver City Mayor Jeffrey Cooper stated, “This links with the heart and soul of our town. We are the heart of Screenland. This pays homage to Culver City. Everything else you see is new and contemporary, and here, the Culver Studios is the blending of a 21st century studio with respect for our heritage and history. We celebrate The Culver Studios for taking the time and effort to preserve these structures and make them functional for decades to come. Amazon Studios is embracing the storied history of The Culver Studios. I am proud they’ve chosen to call Culver City its home.”
Vice Mayor Thomas Small worked for two years, using his architectural background, to help integrate architecture from the old stages. He said, “The way the buildings were moved and restored has been absolutely top-flight. This is excellence in historic preservation.”
The Culver Studio Bungalow renovation is just Phase One of The Innovation Plan.
The Innovation Plan is an ambitious project set to modernize the century-old studio and prepare it for hundreds of new Amazon employees while also recognizing the important legacy of the Culver Studio Mansion and Bungalows. It includes modernization and reimaging of the studio lot and equipping it to meet 21stcentury entertainment production requirements.
Hackman, recognizing the importance of Culver Studios to Culver City Real Estate area residents, confided, “The Culver Studios is one of the great treasures of Culver City. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for this historic site.”
