Tuesday, June 26, 2007

CHIM CHIM CHAROO


The most famous chimney in Vintage Vegas is on 15th Street south of Oakey. It was originally the "Tony Marnell" home. You CAN'T miss it since the only way to describe it is "nuclear power plant".


By far and away, the most common chimneys are just painted brick or block squares or rectangles. But there are lots of really interesting ones, with all kinds of rock, stone, ceramic facings. They're really stunning when they become one of the focal points of the house, and match perfectly. Thought I'd share some examples from McNeil, Scotch 80's and Huntridge areas. The triple obelisks on Shadow Lane are stunning. The left obelisk is actually the chimney.

The Triangle Brick Chimney from Westwood Ave. is across the street from Jerry Lewis' home in Scotch 80's. No, they don't have to be square.

There's so much to see when driving around in Vintage Vegas. Between the architecture, the ornamentation, the facings, the chimneys, the block walls, the textures, colors, shapes and sizes, I've never yet seen any 2 alike. I love Vintage Vegas.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Jack, This was Tony's father, Anthony Marnell's house. Tony actually lived for a time at 1704 S. 16th St. That was back around 1974-76. I know that because I lived next door at 1708 S. 16th for almost 25 years.
Anthony Marnell used to be a brick contractor and had a company with a partner called Marnell & Bianchi.
I know that because I worked where he had his insurance back in the 60's.(Beneficial Ins., 1737 Las Vegas Blvd. So.) I started in the insurance business at 16 years old, part time while still in high school. That lovely home and its fireplace have always been well known in the neighborhood and I agree that it is probably the most unique in town. MJ

Brian Paco Alvarez said...

If you visit the Las Vegas Country Club you can see two more of these fantasitic funnel shaped roofs.

The Club House is a classic mid-century structure. Though I am not sure why they do not show the club house on any of their promotional materials. This may be a sign that things may change. Hopefully for the better rather than demolition...

Thanks