This is a response letter to the article named “The Big-Box Battle of Beverly Hills” published on Sunday June 13, 2004 in The Los Angeles Times Magazine.

The subject article surprised many members of the Society of Iranian Architects and Planners (SIAP) who are practicing licensed architects and are greatly knowledgeable of the history of Persian Architecture.  

            Some of them even expressed their disappointment and anger by calling board members for response to the article. 

Iranian-American Architects and planners, depending on their educational background and experience have taken great participation in development of many communities throughout Southern California, particularly in the city of Los Angeles.  They have considerably contributed to the architectural enhancement in the cities and communities such as Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West LA, Westwood, Brentwood, and the Malibu area. 

            The article written by Ms. Alexander points out “Buildings” that are simply Boxes with massive tall columns raised up in front of them and she refers to them as “Persian Palaces” of the city of Beverly Hills.  The similarity between these homes of some nouveaux riches (mostly designed by unlicensed architects), to those of historical national Persian palaces in Iran is indeed far different.  By no reason do these buildings represent any elements of Persian Architecture.  In fact, these buildings suggest a meaningless mixture of different European architectural styles by introducing tall massive columns and metal Arts and Crafts Style doors and windows pasted up along their main façades.

            The society of Iranian architects and planners of California (SIAP) strongly supports the City of Beverly Hills for putting a stop to these unprofessional architectural practices which rapidly have been expanding throughout the city during past years. 

We would also greatly appreciate it if you could please publish this letter in your LA Times Magazine, so that other public and city officials become aware of our points of views regarding such builders and improper practices. 

This would greatly show your support in beautifying our cities.

Sincerely,

Mo Borghei, AIA, SIAP
President of the Society of Iranian Architects & Planners

Tel:       (310) 442-9093
Email:   mo@archi10.com