The 1893 Bradbury Building, inspired by amateur architectural draftsman George Wyman’s Ouijaboards contact with a dead brother, landed him a mention in many history and architecture books, even though the building was named for the owner Louis Bradbury. Famed as one of Los Angeles’ most astounding Victorian buildings and a superb example of Victorian-era commercial architecture, the Bradbury continues to wow visitors with its impeccable detailing and, for the era in which it was created, its futuristic styling.

Although the public can access only the lobby level, that’s usually enough of an eye-opener to keep most people happy. The comparatively plain brick façade belies what delights lay in store when you pass thorough the portal to enter an interior courtyard with five-storey sky-lit atrium. Some of the classy, jaw-dropping details of this architectural treasure include highly ornate wrought-iron railings and bird-cage elevators, marble and tile floors, oak paneling, and glazed and unglazed brick walls.