Aon Center a name that echoes through Los Angeles’s history. It stands tall a testament to architectural ambition.
This magnificent skyscraper at 707 Wilshire Boulevard is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of the city’s growth and resilience. Originally the United California Bank Building it was completed in 1973. It became the First Interstate Tower later. The name Aon Center is relatively recent.
The Aon Center was once the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. That’s a pretty impressive feat. It held this title until 1982. The building’s slender design is remarkable. It’s particularly noteworthy given Los Angeles’s seismic activity. The architects Charles Luckman and structural engineers Erkel Greenfield Associates cleverly designed a building that could withstand earthquakes. It remained the tallest in Los Angeles until 1989. The U S Bank Tower then took the title.
Sadly the Aon Center has seen its share of tragedy. A devastating fire in 1988 ripped through five floors. This fire led to the loss of a maintenance worker’s life. It also injured 40 people. The lack of a fully operational sprinkler system exacerbated the damage. The $400 million in damages led to significant changes in building codes. All high-rises in Los Angeles now must have fire sprinklers.
The Aon Center has 62 floors. However it only has 61 numbered floors. The building’s lowest level is called Bank Level because of a Wells Fargo Bank. The Main Lobby level is twice as high as the Bank Level. It houses additional elevators. From there you can access floors 4 through 62. There are also underground levels. There is a valet parking garage. There is also an evacuation tunnel used by firefighters in the 1988 fire. The Aon Center even displayed the 1984 Olympic logo during the games. This was because First Interstate Bank was a major sponsor.
Today Aon Center stands proudly. Its bronze cladding and white trim shine. The Aon Corporation logo sits atop the building a bold red statement. This building is a lasting symbol. It represents the spirit of Los Angeles. It is a structure that has overcome challenges. The Aon Center continues to serve as a significant business hub. It is a testament to architectural ingenuity and urban resilience. It is truly a remarkable landmark in the heart of Los Angeles.