Whittier’s Standard Oil Building is a historic commercial complex tied to the region’s early petroleum economy. Built for the Standard Oil Company after successful local drilling began in 1910, the complex consists of several buildings around a courtyard rather than a single structure. Its earliest section, completed in 1914, was designed by Rea and Garstang in the Spanish Colonial Revival style with Mission character, giving it a compact yet prominent presence. Recognized for both architectural and historical significance, the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and later adapted for commercial uses including a restaurant, beauty salon, and day spa.