Transamerica Pyramid, San Fransisco, US

The Transamerica Pyramid is the tallest and most recognizable skyscraper in the San Francisco skyline. At a height of 260 m (853 ft), it is currently tied for 105th tallest building in the world.

Built on the location of the historic Montgomery Block, it has a structural height of 260 m (853 ft) and contains 48 floors of retail and office space. Construction began in 1969 and finished in 1972.

The pyramid is an innovative solution to this design challenge, and when viewed from the East Bay forms a prominent and unique skyline projection, forming an important element of San Francisco's "signature skyline". This Building was built under the 'Building Codes' to be Earthquake safe.

The building is a tall, four-sided pyramid with two "wings" on opposite sides of the building. The wing to the east of the building contains an elevator shaft, while the wing to the west contains a stairwell and a smoke tower. The top 64.6 m (212 ft) of the building is the spire.

Architect : William Pereira