Oh, how the retro world loves breeze blocks. That is: Decorative concrete blocks. No one can know for sure how many designs were made, but I bet that Jack LeVine‘s collection, displayed like art in the back yard of his lovely Las Vegas home — gives us the best count we have so far. How many breeze blocks are in his collection? He says: 34. When I visited his house as part of Nevada Preservation Foundation‘s Vintage Las Vegas Home & History Tour a few months ago, I tried to photograph them all. Finally: Here’s the stash to ogle — and covet. Get yer scrolling finger ready, set, go!
- Want to find ’em made new today? See my mega research — 29 places to buy breeze block today — 75+ designs.
Okay, so scrolling and counting, I think I get only 28. In any case: It’s WILD, isn’t it, how many of these designs were made!
Retro Renovation readers are kinda obsessed with breeze blocks; my stories on them are among the most popular in terms of search etc:
Hugs, Jack!
More: Another recent story on Jack’s collection!
Jenn says
I have blocks that have a peace sign in the center.
Susan H says
Absolutely beautiful, how he has displayed them is fantastic!
Joanne says
I’m actually loving all the shelves set into the brick wall of their yard. I’m assuming that needs to be done when the wall is being built and not something you can add on later? I’ve seen this done with interior brickwork before but not outside.
kara says
We just got back from a 10 day vacation in LA. We saw breeze blocks EVERYWHERE. I have a great pic of it used at the Stahl House. When I posted pics of the Stahl House on my FB page, many of my “non-mcm” friends said “Is this your Air B&B?”.
As if.
🙂
lynda says
That is what I call a perfect thing to collect. No clutter in the house, and there can’t be too many out there to find. I think it makes a great look for the backyard and you still get to have the thrill of a good hunt!
midmichigan says
Great collection and great post! They were very popular back in the day. Wish I saw more of them now.
ineffablespace says
Some of these make their own statement and I think some of them would be much better as a multi-block screen to appreciate the whole pattern.
pam kueber says
Agreed. But it’s a collection of often salvaged pieces — multiples not available — I’m a little confused by your comment ineffable….
ineffablespace says
Oh,
I think as a collection of salvaged pieces each block is great as it is.
But originally, they were meant to be read as a “unit” in a larger pattern, and as individual blocks some of them are less effective than others.:you need them in multiples to see a more complex pattern
Red Reed says
I believe they mean some of them would be even more impressive if we could see the pattern the blocks make as a matching group. Just wishful thinking to see the effect with a large grouping. Some, like the fleur-de-lis make a big impression on their own.
Laurent Matte says
duh…
Tom says
Very cool!
Kristin says
The argyle one is by far my favorite.
Carolyn says
I’m glad he chose to include those that were damaged (fleur-di-lis). How creative to take this humble material and fancy it up in so many ways.
Too cool.