Memory Lanes - Page 3

But definitely not for Gordon Powers' architectural firm, Powers, Daly & DeRosa, which turned mid-century bowling venue design into an architectural art form—over and over again.

They also inspired builders and designers behind many of the hundreds of California bowling centers built during the mid-century boom with their trademark concrete cantilevered at extreme angles, and stylized porte-cocheres that appealed to the state's growing car culture.

Powers, Daly & DeRosa pulled out all the stops designing centers with sensational styling that went far beyond the typical suburban experience. In each, architectural elements were integrated with luxury interiors, locally quarried stone, and individual design themes that exceeded visitor expectations.

Their bowling center output extended beyond California, with two of them representing the epitome of extravagance—Willow Grove Park Lanes in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania (billed as the world's largest bowling center) and Celebrity Sport Center in Glendale, Colorado (an 80-lane luxury entertainment center with a 50-meter pool).

Returning to the California experience, bowling center entertainment went way beyond the lanes. A night on the town could find a couple stepping inside an Arabian Nights theme at San Jose's Futurama Bowl, or venturing into the Smuggler's Cove lounge at the nautical-themed Palos Verdes Bowl.

Another significant phenomenon was the top headliners who performed. "Some of these touring acts were incredible," remarks Nichols, "especially at the Safari Room [adjacent to Plaza Lanes] in San Jose, which had all the big acts you don't think of in that circuit. [Singers] Tina Turner started in a bowling center, the Four Seasons, Mel Torme was a regular.

"And in Southern California, [comedienne] Rusty Warren and [singer] Rudy Vallée both did 'Live at the Chariot Room' at Anaheim Bowl…[and comedians] Rowan & Martin had a residency at Covina Bowl—it's amazing!"

When it came to the game's accouterments, active bowlers in the mid-century era needed more than the basic black bowling ball and rented shoes. Owning all the mid-century designer accessories was the way to go. For starters, how about that marbleized turquoise bowling ball displayed in the window of the pro shop?

From men's and ladies' fashions, to two-tone shoes and shirts, bowling had an irresistible style all its own.