“If I ruled the world/Imagine that/I’d free all my sons, I love em love em baby/Black diamonds and pearls/Could it be, if you could
be mine, we’d both shine/If I ruled the world/Still livin for today, in these last days and times” ~ If I Ruled The World by Nas
It was a hot Sunday afternoon in Atlanta when Bestie and I decided to take a stroll down Peachtree St. to the Fox Theatre. When we got there, I was fascinated by the architecture and decor and immediately started taking pictures. There was something about it that drew me in but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. Fast forward a few weeks later, the nerd in me (I was a history major in college) decided to Google the Fox Theatre Atlanta and I discovered that the interior and exterior is a mixture of ancient Egyptian and Islamic architecture. I was amazed at how these cultures influenced the design of the Fox Theatre which is also a historic landmark in Atlanta and listed on the National Historic Register.
The Fox Theatre was built in 1929 by French architect Olivier J. Vinour. Vinour designed the building using Middle Eastern motifs. The Egyptian Ballroom is designed after a temple for Ramses II. The ladies lounge features a replica of the throne chair of King Tut and makeup tables feature tiny Sphinxes while the men’s lounge includes hieroglyphic adornments.
Trompe-l’œil, an art technique that makes images appear 3-dimensional, can be found on the ceilings throughout the building.
I am in love with the windows above the doors.
Here’s a glimpse of the Fox Theatre’s exterior. The architecture looks like an Islamic mosque.
The side of the building reminds me of ancient Egyptian pyramids.
Next week I will do a post on the Fox Theatre Detroit or St. Louis. A design comparison would be fun and educational. Design Minds can pick the best design. Stay tuned.
A Design State of Mind 