What's left of Mid Century Modern and Googie architecture in Reno, Nevada? + a craft beer stop!

[@davesnothere.5528]

I was born in Reno, 1959. We used to climb on the pioneer theatre as teenagers. My friend used to operate the elevator at the old Mapes Hotel, after school. I love the old buildings and style of Reno from the 60's..My mom used to take us kids to that Library.."Recreation Unlimited"!

[@SteveTRYK]

Good times! Cheers!

[@MorKat20]

My aunt and uncle moved to Reno in ‘54. I spent many a summer exploring that town with my cousins!!! Cool!!!

[@RoadkillCustoms]

As a fan of MCM, I genuinely appreciate these gems and the effort and completeness you put into your videos - another Well Done!!

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanks Mr. RoadKillCustoms!

[@brianc6218]

Very cool! I recognize several of those buildings. Library looked really cool. Sad I never went there when I lived out there.

[@SteveTRYK]

Next time!

[@chrisbowman7628]

Absolutely wonderful video. Thank you. As a Chicagoan, I'd like to say that I live in Mies Van Der Rhohe's late 40's buildings at 860 and 880 Lake Shore Drive that really kicked off MCM architecture. Alas, I live about a mile north in Lincoln Park, but my firm's offices are in the iconic Skidmore Owens' Inland Steel Building, which is one of the great MCM office towers in America. But back to Reno. Thanks for some great looks, many of which I did not know. The things that I would add would be Arlington Towers and the residential homes on Dartmouth surrounding the ponds that are just South of the Mapes mansion.

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanks for the input! I plan to do more traveling at some point and see more of the style elsewhere. Cheers!

[@chrisbowman7628]

Palm Springs is a MCM mecca and in your neck of the woods.@@SteveTRYK

[@johnbogle6475]

Some added history: There was an El Rancho 1 on S. Virginia near Moana. It was near the Town & Country Bowl and was originally horse stalls (made of local river rock) converted into cottages (very early 1900s), then (1940s - 50s?) about 20 more rooms, a bar and Reno's first HEATED POOL (as was proudly displayed as Black on Pink :). The added building type was the same brick construction as El Rancho 2. I did bldg maintenance for the Claudianos family in the70s (including a year at El Rancho 1). The Denney's at El Rancho 2 moved down to The Sands on 4th St. when the Claudianos built their first 5 story Motel with Casino/Bar/Liquor store & Denney's. Old stories coming to mind.Do you remember the giant HEATED POOL sign on S. Virginia? Big, Ugly and you couldn't miss it :). Love your videos. Keep them coming. Thanks!

[@SteveTRYK]

I think I've seen a postcard of that pool sign! Thanks!

[@elric8885]

That Reno Library. Awesome! Thank you for these videos! 👍

[@SteveTRYK]

Cheers mate!

[@laikapupkino1767]

I showed up at the Reno City Council in the mid-90s to object to the planned closing of the Downtown Library. Happy that that we managed to change their minds, it's a real treasure. Too bad the old Century theater next to the Peppermill was torn down. Opened in 1966 as a 70mm Cinerama theater, it would've fit right in with this piece, although it became a big of a hodgepodge of styles as they kept adding screens. Out on Virginia it had a VERY 1960s green metal parabola supporting the what's-showing sign, that I scaled every week from 1989 until it closed in the earlly 2000s to change the big plastic letters. Under one of the speakers behind the screen in auditorium #1 I found a big square of the original carpet, with a pattern of stylized geometric "flowers" (think Rowen + Martin's Laugh-In) that was pure Mod au Gogo! It made a nice doormat until it deteriorated after a few Reno winters. But I do still have a roll of the gold wallpaper I haven't found a use for yet...

[@SteveTRYK]

I remember that old theater - too cool!

[@unr74]

Another 🎲🎲🎲🎲🎲 episode. The Denny’s-remember it well- in the shadow of the Well’s Ave. bridge. That bridge is a scandalous story in and of itself . If I ever meet you in person I’ll tell you about it. The Orange Julius - not far from the house I grew up in -now the location is under the westbound lanes of I-80. The impact of I-80 through Reno cannot be overstated. That would make an interesting episode.

[@chesabugg]

I lived on Lake and Seventh Street and I barely remember ( and couldn't understand) why they were tearing the houses down down the street. I also lived across the street from O.J..my favorite 😊

[@SteveTRYK]

Cheers and good ideas - thanks!

[@unr74]

@@chesabugg ahh.. then you must remember the Arctic Circle too

[@chesabugg]

Yes, I'm sad..there were two, I recall.

[@bbroadhead]

lived in Reno my entire life, born in 1956 and I love the old buildings, ate at Sambos as a kid! The town has grown and change so much over the years, if a newbie as taken back in time they would not recognize the city. I appreciate you looks back in time. I was a geologist back in the day and traveled and walked over much of the state, The remoteness and views abide. thanks for the vids.

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanks and cheers!

[@bbroadhead]

Thank you for actually reading my comment. Although not too grammatically correct! You are the first comment I have made on years of you tube viewing. Thank you for the vids! Keep it up!

[@rexracer537]

My wife and I love this style of architecture, and fortunately for us we'll be in Reno in a couple weeks for Hot August Night. I think we'll check it the cafe while we're in town. Thanks for the video 👍🏾

[@SteveTRYK]

Cheers and have fun at HAN!

[@TheLizziebk]

I love your videos. I have been in Reno for 55 years, basically my entire life. I love how you feel about our town and the rich history that is here. Keep the videos coming.

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanx and cheers!

[@rockwithjerry]

Loved the video. I was going to leave a comment about the old Sambo's in Sparks, but you included it, which was awesome. We had over there a couple of times a month. Keep up the great content.

[@SteveTRYK]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@wesmcquillen]

I'm a fan of MCM, Googie, and Populuxe and seeing so many examples of it here certainly had some effect on my choice to move here. I remember before I moved to Reno, exploring Google Street View and seeing that old tiny Orange Julius building and loving it. I think most recently it had a tattoo artist as a tenant, sad to see it empty again. And surely our downtown library is one of the most beautiful buildings I've ever been in, it's just 100% unique.

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanks for the input - glad you're here!

[@Palestir]

Thank you for sharing! Always excited to learn more about Reno.

[@SteveTRYK]

More to come!

[@StigMalone]

Loved this video ! Watching from the UK where we have lots of mid century architecture but it tends to be a lot more grey and serious, would looove it if we had more whimsy in our mid century architecture!

[@MoreKellBell]

I moved to this area 21 years ago and just found your wonderful channel. ❤

[@missjackalope567]

I love MCM and Googie! glad to see we have some wonderful local examples. every time I pass by the old orange julius building I want to like put some sort of business in it.

[@SteveTRYK]

Hopefully it gets repurposed!

[@Mix1mum]

I remember being in buildings like that old Denny's as a youngin! I thought it was so cool with the weird angled ceiling/roof. Idk what it was, maybe it was a Denny's. It was most likely in the Vancouver, WA. The ceiling creates such a unique ambiance, inspiring movement and space - absolutely perfect for a diner (any future developer - take note).

[@SteveTRYK]

architecture with personality!

[@randomscramdom]

Excellent video. We live just over in Nevada City, CA. When we moved here, I didn’t think much of Reno if I thought of it at all. But during a visit to attend a show several years ago, we explored a bit, and started to change our minds. Many visits later, it’s a favorite destination exactly because of the gems like these that you explore in your channel. I’m excited to see the library, which we’ve walked by with no idea that it had such a beautiful interior. Thanks for all your work!

[@SteveTRYK]

I appreciate your feedback! Cheers!

[@gregormerry2995]

Great video. Love your content. Reno is my favorite destination and your videos keep it as number one on my list.

[@SteveTRYK]

Appreciate that - cheers!

[@johnstephen7610]

As a recent subscriber, I'm still catching up with your videos. I loved this one, and the next time I visit Reno I want to visit Jack's Cafe. Keep up the great work!

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanks for tuning in!! Love Jack's!

[@cpkarkow663]

The old denny's at El Rancho was, for a few years back around 2002, 2003 a fantastic mexican-salvadoran place I used to eat there all the time. I can remember eating pupusas there during the big wind event in December 2002, all of 4th street had no power but, somehow, these guys stayed open. Once we were eating there in the evening and a Mariachi band came in and played for everyone. I miss that place. i think the guy who opened it was Victor(?) he had been a cook at Beto's and wanted to open his own place.

[@SteveTRYK]

You speak the truth - there were remainders of that place that I saw that didn't make the final video. Cheers!

[@frankgentile5383]

601 West First Street was originally the California State Automobile Association office. I hit town in June 1975, beginning my Harrah's career.

[@jeffreyellison2252]

I had no idea there were so many excellent examples of MCM architecture left in Reno. The details you include make tours like this so worthwhile. Plus, getting into the Denny's building was very cool - Thanks, Steve!

[@SteveTRYK]

Cheers!

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks Steve! I think we are the same age (1961 birth year) so a lot of these toes of buildings are part of my life experience. Even had a Sambo’s here in Modesto! In fact there are buildings still standing in the Central Valley which have some of these architectural designs! Always enjoy your discoveries!

[@SteveTRYK]

I'm 1964 - February - same month the Beatles came to America, so I consider myself a Beatle Baby. I like looking for this stuff when I travel too. Thanks and cheers!

[@thelizabeth909]

Great video. And good for you knocking on the Dennys door. Very watchable. As are all the videos I’ve watched so far

[@SteveTRYK]

Much appreciated!

[@FernandaHaiabe]

Hello! I loved your video! Very informative and interesting! The old Denny's was a gem! The owner was so kind to show you the inside!

[@kenmckinnell8153]

The Boomerang Motif. There's a 60's flashback! It was on the counter and tabletop at every coffee shop and restaurant.

[@chesabugg]

In 1967 I lived across the street from Orange Julius, my favorite place..I remember my brother and I would run over there to get one! I remember after that it was a travel agency, not as exciting.. Sambo's, I didn't remember the ine in Sparks, but I do remember the one on South Virginia near Plumb lane. Thanks again for a great video, I always look forward to them.💙❤️

[@SteveTRYK]

I was going to highlight that other Sambo's but sadly I believe its been demolished. Thanks!

[@georgetoomer5323]

Well done! Great copy and footage!

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanks a lot!

[@theshow16]

Awesome!! Thank you. Love mid century modern! This is my new favorite youtube channel.

[@SteveTRYK]

Great to hear! Cheers!

[@ibmeritor9767]

The Fleischmann Planetarium reminds of the Deaton Sculptured House or "Sleeper" House in Genesee, CO., built in '63 by Charles Deaton. Certainly convey's a similar style to the Populuxe design of that planetarium.

[@SteveTRYK]

I love the planetarium building!

[@philmakris8507]

Is the Mark Fore and Strike building on Kietzke considered MCM?

[@SteveTRYK]

Yes, and the old sign they relocated to the back is worth a look too!

[@ronaldyodersr]

Jack's Cafe was also featured pretty prominently in Paul Thomas Anderson's first movie Hard Eight, with John C. Reilly and Philip Baker Hall. The opening and closing of the film takes place there, and other Reno locations are featured as well. Cool channel, subbed.

[@SteveTRYK]

I'll need to see that - thanks!

[@Dr_Bombay]

Came back to comment again because i spotted another Googie piece in town: On Moana, just west of Virginia, there's a quickie mart/gas station (Ballpark Market?) that has a remnant of googie architecture for the part that shelters the pumps. Kind of a boomerang-style, angular support and cover structure.

[@SteveTRYK]

I'm familiar with that - great observation and a cool structure!

[@Dr_Bombay]

Thanks! I bowl at High Sierra Lanes, so i was happy to see you point out their building. I wish they would paint it appropriately, but all in all i'm just glad the place exists!@@SteveTRYK

[@tobysan1966]

Awesome content Steve! This one, as all of your content, was thoroughly enjoyable. Thank you so much!

[@SteveTRYK]

Thanks Tobysan!

[@davemontgomery8987]

I like your videos. Do you have a video on why Reno street intersections don't always line up? I am thinking places like Virginia and Liberty, and many other examples.

[@SteveTRYK]

Oh man - that's been a peeve of mine too! "If I drive straight, I'm in the middle of two lanes!

[@ppgwhereeverett4412]

Born in L.A. in 1954, I remember eating at "NORM'S" ! Another great video. Now we're in Sacramento and we go to Reno 4 times a year ! That dome is exactly the same as The Domes in Auburn, Placer County Admin Offices except there's five of 'em ! I remember "SAMBO'S" !! Considered a racist company. We have really come a long way, folks !

[@SteveTRYK]

Norm's - what architecture!!

[@planiverse00j]

Did that location of the McDonald's on Plumb used to be a Bob's Big Boy? I seem to remember that or maybe I have it mixed up.

[@SteveTRYK]

I believe it was new construction.

[@lutomson3496]

still like the old post office building art deco

[@bryantrigg4854]

There is a "Golden Dome" in Oklahoma City, likely designed by the same firm. It is located at the corner of NW 23rd and Classen. It is not in very good shape, and as far as I know, there hasn't been any business using the place in the last 10 or 15 years.

[@elizabethcalef6225]

FYI: Interior gardens are called atriums.

[@middleway5271]

I love Reno. Greal small city. I do wish they would stop knocking down old buildings.

[@SteveTRYK]

Agreed!

[@Truelib99Hobbes]

Reno has had some great "Sierra Modern" style buildings. The city has destroyed so many wonderful buildings which is a shame. When you compare Reno to cities like Palm Springs for example, it's embarrassing the complete lack of foresight by city leaders. The loss of the Mapes has left a massive hole in the fabric of the city. Also the old courthouse building with it's louvers was an early piece of eco architecture. The Fleischmanm is Futurist, think Eero Saarinen's TWA terminal or the Jetson's. The Pioneer theater would be considered Brutalism; as would the library and the Labels boutique. The folded plate roof is an invention of Donald Wexler and great for sunny warm climes but terrible for snowy climates. I'm surprised any of it has survived, so much has been destroyed.