William Douglas Lee (1894 – August 14, 1965)[1] was an American architect and designer in the early 20th century whose career focused on designing large Neoclassic, Gothic Revival, Renaissance Revival, and Beaux-Arts style manufacturing buildings in Downtown Los Angeles, as well as other historically notable works such as the Chateau Marmont[2] and the El Royale[3][4] apartments.

[5] Lee gained during the 1920s when his idea to transform the city's aesthetic with real estate developer Florence Casler took hold.

Together Lee and Casler erected what she termed a "utopian commercial area"[6] centered on Pico Boulevard and Maple Avenue.

[14] Lee shared Casler's love of modern design enhanced with revival accenting and molding in terra cotta and stone.

Even after their partnership ended, Lee designed some of the most iconic buildings in Los Angeles, including the Chateau Marmont and the El Royale apartments.