Kress Building, Bakersfield

The Kress Building is an exemplary piece of Art Deco architecture, constructed in 1931 using reinforced steel and brick. Designed by the renowned American architect Edward Sibbert, the building originally housed a Kress Department Store, part of the national Kress & Co. chain known for its five-and-dime stores. Samuel Kress, the company's founder, was notable for commissioning talented architects to create distinctive buildings, making Kress stores recognizable and aesthetically appealing fixtures in cities across the United States.

The Kress department store in Bakersfield operated until 1974, after which the building was closed. However, recognizing its architectural and historical significance, efforts were made to preserve and renovate the structure. By 1984, the building had been successfully repurposed as office space, retaining its historic charm while adapting to new uses.

In 2015, the Kern County Historical Society placed a historical marker to the right of the building's entrance, commemorating its rich history and significance. This marker highlights the building's legacy as a part of the Kress & Co. chain and its importance to the architectural and cultural heritage of Bakersfield.