“Pause for a moment. Take it all in,” I say as we stand before the 50 United Nations Plaza Federal Office Building. This isn’t just another government building. It’s a landmark steeped in history and architectural significance.
The United Nations Building stands as a testament to San Francisco’s resilience and commitment to civic design. After the devastating 1906 earthquake, the city envisioned a grand civic center. The Federal Building became a vital piece of that vision.
Let’s step back in time. The year is 1927. The government allocates 2.5 million dollars for the building’s design. San Francisco donates the site in 1930. Architect Arthur Brown Jr. a graduate of the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, designs the building. Construction takes place between 1934 and 1936.
Brown also designed the City Hall, Opera House and Veterans Building. These buildings contribute significantly to the Civic Center.
Notice the architectural style of the United Nations Building. It exemplifies Second Renaissance Revival architecture. Look for the horizontal divisions. Admire the rusticated base. Observe the classical ornamentation. The columns add to the exterior elevations.
The building’s design incorporates features addressing concerns after the 1906 earthquake. The steel frame encased in fireproof concrete with concrete flooring ensured greater safety.
Take a closer look at the south facade. It faces United Nations Plaza. The colonnade of Doric columns stands out. They align with Doric pilasters. A classical balustrade supports the railing between the columns.
The main entrance features three arched openings. Above the central arch, find a keystone. It contains a medallion with a carved shield motif. The flanking arches also feature medallions. These depict an eagle holding olive branches.
Now turn your attention to the corners of the building. You’ll see secondary entrances with concave arc configurations. Round arches with ornate medallions mark these entrances. Doric porticos are above the second story.
Have you noticed the mascarons? These carved faces adorn the exterior. They feature headpieces with horticultural themes. Corn, wheat, cat tails, and oak leaves are all represented.
Let’s step inside the United Nations Building. The main entrance vestibule and first-floor lobby are stunning. The terrazzo flooring features a marble border. Grey marble wainscot covers the walls. It rises over twenty-seven feet. The barrel-vaulted ceiling features decorative coffers and shell motifs. A detailed cornice and doorway add to the classically inspired design.
Originally, bronze was used on many elements in the elevator lobby. The original bronze elevator doors remain. Also notice the mailbox, clocks and telephone booths.
In 1975, construction commenced on United Nations Plaza. Lawrence Halprin designed this area next to the Federal Building. It honored the establishment of the U.N. which occurred in the Veterans Building in 1945.
Now, let’s acknowledge some important historical events that took place here. In 1977, disability rights protestors staged a 26-day sit-in. They demanded the signing of regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
In 1985, protestors with AIDS chained themselves to the door. They demanded increased funding for AIDS research. Activist Cleve Jones organized a candlelight march. People taped signs with names of loved ones lost to AIDS on the walls. This inspired the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt.
The United Nations Building has witnessed significant moments in history. It stands as a symbol of civic pride. Its architectural details tell a story of resilience. Its walls echo with voices of activists who fought for change. As we leave, remember that this building is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to San Francisco’s spirit.