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Postcard ca. 1960s
courtesy of Tim & Tom Bernert |
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Tampa-East,
Florida
6804 E Hillsborough
Ave |
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Opened in 1959, Tampa-East
was built during a transitional phase in Howard Johnson's architecture.
Based on designs by Koch and Nims, the Motor Lodge featured a
"ranch" Gate Lodge. However, its guest room buildings
were more like the type that became standard for the Company
in the 1960s, than those that had been proposed by Koch and Nims. |
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The postcard view above
shows an early view of the room. Note the radio control in the
bedside table, and the orange Lamplighter stickers on the slider.
Also notice that the telephone was on the continuous counter
rather than at bedside.
Fitting with the HoJo's
ideal of luxurious ultra-modern accommodations, most guest rooms
of the 1950s through the early 1960s were outfitted with Harry
Bertoia wire side chairs. Described by some as a study of space,
form, and function, the chairs were a striking reminder to patrons
that Howard Johnson's was modern and the hip place to be! Today
the chairs are seen an classic mid-twentieth century-American
furniture icons, and widely collected.
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