Former Automotive Life Building (New Orleans, Louisiana)

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The Automotive Life Insurance Co. Building designed by Curtis & Davis Architects in 1963 was built to celebrate the Company’s twenty-fifth anniversary. Originally placed in a semi-residential area, the architects wanted to preserve the character of the neighborhood therefore the design consist of a two story building which is set back from the street. The most distinctive feature of the design is its structure consisting of concrete columns and a set of vaults built on a steel skeleton. The interior is articulated by a two-story court located in the center of the building which accommodates the reception areas. The central court on the first floor is surrounded by executive offices and meeting rooms. On the second floor the circulation route is given by a balcony which goes meandering the central court. The offices on this floor receive light from semi-circular clerestory windows. This building is also interesting due to its curvilinear aesthetic details which are distinct from the rest of the modernist buildings of its era.