Griffith Observatory
Los Angeles, CA

Griffith Observatory Restoration and Expansion

While the Griffith Observatory is renowned for shedding light on the mysteries of our vast universe, people visiting this restored Los Angeles treasure will find it easy to navigate the steps and walking paths thanks to BEGA step lights.

This 1935 Art Deco masterpiece is often referred to as “the hood ornament of Los Angeles” by longtime observatory director Dr. Edwin (E.C.) Krupp. Frequently used as the backdrop for Hollywood films, the Griffith Observatory offers something unusual in Los Angeles – a genuine public area! The setting is so popular that regular public use wore it out, necessitating a five year closure so restoration could take place.

Two L.A. architectural firms, Pfeiffer Partners and Levin & Associates, collaborated on the preservation and expansion of the observatory. One of their primary goals, as well as restoring the building to its original grandeur, was to expand public space in order to enhance the visitor experience.

BEGA 2024P recessed wall luminaires from our extensive offering of step lights are seen throughout the grounds, as well as in the nearly 40,000 square feet of public space added to the existing building. Additions include a large, multi-level exhibit gallery, a 200-seat presentation theater (Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon), classroom, café, bookstore, and new entrances and ramps to improve access to and into the building. This $93 million project was completed in October of 2006.