Nestled at the entrance of Incline Village, a forgotten gas station stands as a silent witness to Tahoe’s architectural history, teetering between demolition and preservation. The Orbit Station, with its dramatic triangular roofline, isn’t just another abandoned building, it’s a potential landmark that could transform the way we see Lake Tahoe’s architectural heritage.

A Space-Age Relic in the Mountains

Designed in the classic “Googie” architectural style, this wood and steel structure represents more than just a former pit stop. Architectural historian Alan Hess describes it as a “very handsome building” that perfectly captures the mountain aesthetic of A-frame designs popular 50-60 years ago. Unlike its concrete counterparts, this unique station has survived decades of neglect, sitting just across the street from tech billionaire Larry Ellison’s property.

From Superfund Site to Potential Landmark

After years of environmental cleanup and uncertainty, the property owned by the Ferguson family might be on the cusp of an incredible transformation. Local architect Phil GilanFarr envisions a potential restoration that could turn the building into a coffee shop, wine bar, restaurant, or even a visitors’ center celebrating Incline Village’s rich history.

Preservation or Progress?

The recent county commission decision to increase the property’s buildable density suggests potential change is coming. But preservation advocates like Bob Bogard from Modernism Week argue that saving such structures isn’t just about economics, it’s about “being on the right side of history”. Drawing parallels to Palm Springs’ successful restoration of a similar midcentury gas station, there’s hope that this Tahoe landmark could become an iconic destination that celebrates local architectural heritage.

As Tahoe continues to evolve, this tiny plot of land represents a crossroads between preservation and development, between honoring history and embracing progress.