Most architects agree: Los Angeles is a mecca for modernism, boasting iconic residences and stunning public buildings. A prime example is the Kia Forum in Inglewood, a landmark you can learn more about on la-future.
The Genesis of a Landmark
This versatile indoor arena in Inglewood, California, known today as the Kia Forum (and formerly the Great Western Forum), officially opened its doors on December 30, 1967. Architect Charles Luckman envisioned the innovative structure, brought to life by engineers Carl Johnson and Svend Nielsen. The building stands out for several unique architectural features worth highlighting:
- Its groundbreaking design features no massive internal support columns, a rarity for an indoor arena of its size. This ensured an unobstructed view of the stage or playing field from every seat.
- The distinctive suspended roof structure is supported by cables spanning approximately 407 feet (about 124 meters). A significant achievement for its time was the construction of its compression ring, one of the largest of its kind in the nation.
- The arena was deliberately designed to evoke the grandeur of the Roman Forum, giving it a classic and monumental feel. Its circular shape and imposing white exterior columns with flared capitals form a striking arcade.
The Kia Forum’s architecture perfectly illustrates bold engineering where limits seem non-existent. It resulted in a spacious, multi-functional, and iconic structure that continues to captivate generations.
An Era of Sports Dominance
From its opening in 1967 until 1999, the Kia Forum quickly became the beloved home of two of Los Angeles’s premier sports franchises: the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team and the Los Angeles Kings hockey team. During this period, the Kia Forum witnessed countless victories, championship titles, and unforgettable athletic feats. It was where athletes’ dreams soared, showcasing the results of their relentless training. The Forum earned its reputation as one of the most celebrated indoor sports venues in the U.S.
Interestingly, during a Lakers game, legendary commentator Chick Hearn christened the arena “The Fabulous Forum.” The nickname stuck, embraced by locals and associated with grandeur and significance. With Hollywood celebrities frequently gracing its stands, the venue became a magnet not only for sports enthusiasts but also for the stars themselves.
Notable events held at the Forum include the Los Angeles Lakers All-Star Games in 1972 and 1983, the Los Angeles Kings All-Star Game in 1981, and the 1984 Olympic basketball games.
This chapter of the Kia Forum’s history concluded in 1999 when both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Kings moved to their new home, the Crypto.com Arena. Speaking of the Lakers, you can learn about the best coach in their history on I Love Los Angeles.
An Epoch of Transformation and Revival
In 2000, the Faithful Central Bible Church acquired the Kia Forum, utilizing the arena for church services while also renting it out for various events, ensuring the building retained its versatility.
Then, in 2012, Madison Square Garden Company (MSG) purchased the building for $23.5 million, announcing ambitious renovation plans. While the Kia Forum’s original design was iconic, it was time for an update. The revitalization focused on modernizing acoustics, enhancing spectator and artist areas, and upgrading facilities to meet the demands of the contemporary entertainment industry. The new owners aimed to transform the arena into a world-class concert venue.
On September 24, 2014, the Forum was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its significant architectural and historical value. This is similar to the storied past of The Hollywood Hotel, a lost landmark with its own rich history.
On March 24, 2020, Steve Ballmer, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, acquired the Forum from Madison Square Garden Company for a hefty $400 million. This strategic move allowed Ballmer to control a competing venue right next to the upcoming Intuit Dome.
Navigating the Pandemic and Beyond
From March 2020 until July 31, 2021, the Forum remained closed due to the global pandemic. The Foo Fighters were slated to host the first major event post-reopening, but it was postponed due to COVID-19 cases among the band’s crew. Then, on April 4, 2022, South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer Kia Corporation acquired the naming rights, officially rebranding the venue as the Kia Forum.
Interestingly, the building’s unique exterior and recognizable circular shape have even served as a prototype for gaming locations. For instance, in the popular video game “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas,” the virtual city of Los Santos (inspired by Los Angeles) features a building called “Los Santos Forum,” directly modeled after the real-life Kia Forum. You can see some fascinating visuals and learn more about Los Angeles’s iconic structures on the I Love Los Angeles website.
Today, the Kia Forum continues to be a premier destination for entertainment and a stage for global stars. The story of this modernist marvel is a testament to its adaptability and enduring significance, cementing its status as a vital architectural icon and cultural hub.
