Ray Carpenter
Ash & Cortez by Ray Carpenter  Image: El Cortez Hotel
San Diego’s first true skyscraper, once the tallest building in the city. “Cortez in the Clouds” – Captures the dreamy, impressionistic sky.
History: Built in 1927, El Cortez was a glamorous hotel and beacon of downtown luxury. Its iconic rooftop sign and glass elevator were once symbols of modern innovation.
El Cortez Hotel San Diego’s first true skyscraper, once the tallest building in the city. “Cortez in the Clouds” – Captures the dreamy, impressionistic sky. History: Built in 1927, El Cortez was a glamorous hotel and beacon of downtown luxury. Its iconic rooftop sign and glass elevator were once symbols of modern innovation.
  • Subject Matter: Historic Building San Diego, California