The La Concha Motel in Las Vegas is a striking example of mid-century modern architecture that has left a lasting imprint on the city’s landscape. Originally built in 1961, La Concha was designed by renowned architect Paul Revere Williams, whose work defined a generation of Las Vegas design. The name “La Concha,” which translates to “the shell” in Spanish, perfectly describes the building’s unique, swooping curves that resemble the structure of a seashell. La Concha Las Vegas served as a motel for many years, offering a quintessentially glamorous and retro experience for visitors from all over the world.

Located on the Las Vegas Strip, the La Concha Motel became an iconic symbol of the city’s mid-century hospitality industry. It was one of the many motor inns that sprang up during the post-World War II boom when Las Vegas was rapidly expanding into a major tourist destination. The design of La Concha Las Vegas, with its sweeping, futuristic curves, was a bold departure from the more traditional architectural styles that defined the early days of the city. It reflected the optimism and forward-thinking spirit of the era.

For decades, the La Concha Motel in Las Vegas was a hotspot for travelers, offering an affordable yet stylish place to stay. Its prime location on the Strip made it a convenient option for tourists looking to be in the heart of the action. However, as the decades passed and Las Vegas continued to evolve, La Concha, like many other motels from that era, faced challenges. The rise of mega-resorts on the Strip and changes in the tourism industry led to a decline in business for smaller, independent motels like La Concha.

By the early 2000s, the fate of the La Concha Motel in Las Vegas seemed uncertain. The land it sat on was highly sought after for new developments, and the motel was slated for demolition. However, the building’s unique architectural significance sparked a movement to preserve it. Thanks to the efforts of preservationists and local supporters, La Concha was saved from destruction. In a remarkable feat of engineering, the building’s iconic lobby was carefully dismantled and relocated.

Today, the La Concha Motel in Las Vegas lobby serves as the visitor center for the Neon Museum, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of Las Vegas through its neon signs and cultural artifacts. The lobby’s relocation and restoration ensure that La Concha Las Vegas continues to be part of the city’s history, even though the original motel no longer stands. The swooping curves and elegant design of the lobby now welcome visitors to the Neon Museum, where they can explore the legacy of Las Vegas through its iconic signage.

The La Concha Motel in Las Vegas represents more than just a piece of architecture; it symbolizes the evolution of Las Vegas itself. From its early days as a humble motor inn to its current role as a celebrated landmark at the Neon Museum, La Concha has continuously adapted to the city’s ever-changing landscape. Its preservation underscores the importance of safeguarding the architectural and cultural heritage of Las Vegas for future generations. Visitors to the Neon Museum can not only experience the magic of the city’s neon past but also appreciate the architectural genius of Paul Revere Williams through the restored La Concha Las Vegas lobby.

In the story of The La Concha Motel in Las Vegas, we see the enduring power of design and the community’s commitment to preserving its history. The building’s unique form and storied past make it one of the most beloved architectural treasures in the city.

Measures 3x3", high quality die cut vinyl sticker. 

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