Heritage is Our Inspiration

Built in 1939, the building’s architecture mirrors a Spanish mission with an open floor plan encouraging circulation, traffic flow, and social engagement. The unexpected mix of styles, including Classical Revival, Churriqueresque, Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean Revival, and Pueblo Deco conjures the magic of a romantic Mediterranean get-a-way. This inspired architectural and functional design has earned it a listing on the National Register of Historic Places, and establishes Old Police Headquarters as a one of a kind project that can never be duplicated. True to its legacy as part of San Diego culture, this reinvented landmark is poised to become the premiere destination for dining, shopping and entertainment on the waterfront.

  1. 1889

    San Diego Police Department established under Chief of Police Joseph Coyne

  2. 1938

    Charles Quayle, Edward Quayle and Alberto Treganza design the SDPD headquarters

  3. 1939

    SDPD moves in. Crime lab established

  4. 1945

    SDPD officers get first formal training

  5. 1976

    First female sergeant promoted

  6. 1987

    Flag lowered at Old Police Headquarters for the last time

  7. 1998

    Old Police Headquarters added to the National Register of Historic Places

Growing Legacy

The original building opened with, five courtrooms, an emergency hospital, an indoor
shooting range, jail, law library and huge maintenance garage. The character of this original structure can be seen today in the exquisite detail and felt in the authentic spirit of the surrounding environment.

Original map of property