Bank of California Building

The Bank of California Building at 400 California Street is a 22-story skyscraper with stone facades, large windows, and ornamental cornices in Greek-Roman style. The structure now houses commercial offices and underwent significant renovation that blended modern additions with original design elements.

The building was erected in 1908, shortly after the 1906 earthquake, and was among the first commercial structures to lead the rebuilding of the Financial District. Its creation marked the business community's confidence in the city's future following the disaster.

The building displays Greek-Roman features with large windows and ornamental cornices that define its exterior. These details reflect the taste of wealthy bankers who wanted to express their power through monumental architecture in the early 1900s.

The building is easily accessible from throughout the Financial District and features spacious entrance areas on California Street. Visitors can admire the ornate architecture from the exterior and in public spaces as they move through the structure.

The building was designed by architects Bliss and Faville, who drew inspiration from eastern banking institutions, setting it apart from other structures of its era. These references to established financial institutions conveyed stability and trust to customers.

Location: San Francisco

Inception: 1908

Architects: Walter Danforth Bliss

Floors above the ground: 22

GPS coordinates: 37.79320,-122.40200

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:02