THIS OLD LEDGE: LOS ANGELES MALL - Supra Dist.
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THIS OLD LEDGE: LOS ANGELES MALL

20 Dec THIS OLD LEDGE: LOS ANGELES MALL

Posted at 15:10h in Skateboarding, Thrasher, Videos by Ernie 0 Comments
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The Los Angeles Mall: A Skater’s Paradise and Architectural Relic

The latest episode of This Old Ledge dives into the Los Angeles Mall, a hidden gem for skaters. This spot, rich in skateboarding history, blends urban planning, architecture, and creativity. Built in the 1970s, the Los Angeles Mall showcases a complex design that challenges and inspires skateboarders.

Historical Context of the Los Angeles Mall

Originally designed as a community plaza, the Los Angeles Mall became a mix of open spaces and brick structures. Built alongside City Hall East in the mid-1970s, the mall’s original purpose faded quickly. By the 1980s, it transformed into a rugged playground for skaters. The cleared area of the late 1960s left an empty canvas for urban adventurers.

Architectural Features That Test Skill

Circular planters, shaded corridors, and brick quarter pipes define the mall’s unique aesthetic. The dandelion fountain and rusted pagodas offer a surreal backdrop. Across Temple Street, Fletcher Bowron Square extends the plaza with ledges and curved handrails. These elements attract skaters while adding layers of difficulty to their tricks.

The Skateboarding Legacy

The mall’s skateboarding scene started in the 1980s, with legends like Jeff Hartsel and Daewon Song paving the way. Tricks like Daewon’s ollie into a quarter pipe or Jim Greco’s recent backside 360 showcase the spot’s potential. Its rugged surfaces and chunky ledges make every move a battle. Despite these challenges, the Los Angeles Mall remains iconic for skaters.

Why It Still Matters

The mall’s failed purpose as a public plaza gave it new life as a skateboarding haven. Its challenging design keeps skaters coming back for more. Videos like Jim Greco’s “Glass Carousel” highlight its raw, untapped possibilities. For skateboarders, it represents resilience and the power to repurpose urban spaces.

Conclusion

The Los Angeles Mall stands as a testament to the adaptability of skaters. This episode of This Old Ledge captures its unique history and ongoing impact. Whether for its architectural oddities or skateboarding legacy, this mall remains unforgettable.

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