Union Bank Plaza

Union Bank Plaza is a 40-story International Style skyscraper that rises 157 meters (515 feet) with a glass and steel facade. The building sits in the heart of the financial district and is surrounded by a three-acre public plaza at ground level.

The building was completed in 1968 and was the first skyscraper constructed in Los Angeles after the city lifted its height restriction in 1957. It marked the beginning of a new era of vertical development in the downtown area.

The plaza was designed by landscape architect Garrett Eckbo and reflects modern garden design principles. Visitors will find concrete planters, grass areas, and water features that break up the urban space and invite people to linger.

The building is located downtown and is easy to reach on foot, with a pedestrian bridge connecting to the neighboring Bonaventure Hotel. Visitors can explore the public plaza during the day and enjoy free access to the outdoor spaces, walkways, and seating areas.

In 2020, this tower became the first skyscraper in Downtown Los Angeles to receive Historic-Cultural Monument designation. This recognition highlights its importance as a turning point in the city's architectural history.

Location: Downtown Los Angeles

Inception: 1965

Architects: Albert C. Martin, Sr.

Official opening: 1968

Architectural style: International Style

Floors above the ground: 40

Elevators: 19

GPS coordinates: 34.05300,-118.25700

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:49