450 Sutter Street, Art Deco skyscraper in Union Square, San Francisco, United States.
450 Sutter Street is a 26-story skyscraper in San Francisco with a limestone and terra cotta exterior featuring geometric patterns and ornamental details. The Mayan Revival design extends across the facade through stylized motifs and carefully composed decorative elements.
The building opened in 1929, just nine days before the stock market crash that triggered the Great Depression. This timing made it an unintended symbol of economic turbulence and rapid change.
The building displays Mayan Revival design elements across its exterior and interior spaces, reflecting a 1920s fascination with ancient civilizations. This architectural language was a way for San Francisco to express artistic innovation during that era.
The building houses medical and dental offices throughout its spaces and has been upgraded with modern systems including heating and high-speed internet. Since many areas are private offices, focus on viewing the public lobby and facade to appreciate the architectural details.
The interior lobby features an elaborate gold-leafed ceiling decorated with geometric patterns inspired by ancient Mayan temple design. Many visitors overlook this hidden decorative treasure, which can only be appreciated by stepping inside the building's entrance.
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