Lax Gateway: Creating a Los Angeles Icon

The triumphant story of the LAX Gateway is now documented in "the LAX Gateway-Creating a Los Angeles Icon," a beautifully produced, lavishly illustrated, 180 page book. The LAX Gateway commands attention. Its dramatic lighted Pylons are the largest public lighting display in the world. Visible from 30,000 feet, the 28 pylons extend nearly 2 miles from their origin on Century Blvd to a climax of 15 -100' lighted pylons flanked by three 32 foot high letters spelling "LAX." Airport visitors see it as a welcoming beacon. In daylight, the pylons resemble gleaming skyscrapers, while the giant letters evoke the beloved "HOLLYWOOD" sign overlooking Los Angeles. By night, the pylons glow with changing colors and the giant letters reflect and intensify, resembling nothing less than a futuristic space port. Of course, a project this ambitious doesn't happen by chance. Readers of the "The LAX Gateway" have a rare opportunity to see how this complex, interdisciplinary effort came together. In lively text and memorable images, the book traces how Selbert Perkins Design and its collaborative team blended the inspiration and expertise of branding, wayfinding, and placemaking to make the LAX Gateway a mesmerizing reality. Originally built to welcome the 2000 Democratic Convention, the now iconic gateway was created to showcase the energy, spirit, and unity of Los Angeles. Since 1926, the year that the Los Angeles City Council and The Chamber of Commerce acknowledged the need for a municipal airport, LAX has become the largest and busiest international airport on America's west coast, and Los Angeles has evolved into a center of global finance, entertainment, commerce, and tourism. The lighted pylons now serve as the Gateway to the world. With all eyes focused on the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, the Gateway continues to serve as a memorable symbol for LA, inviting and inspiring visitors from around the globe.