The Bay Area s most famous buildings are a varied bunch, originating in several different epochs and

The Bay Area s most famous buildings are a varied bunch, originating in several different epochs and representing wide-ranging theories on good design. The result of this range is an urban landscape that, while not necessarily cohesive, is undeniably unique. The following buildings are San Francisco s most distinctive and recognizable, essential viewing for every curious visitor.
SF s own MOMA is itself a work of modern art, designed in 1995 by Swiss architect Mario Botta. The museum s collection, comprised solely of twentieth century artwork, includes pieces by Pollock, Klee, and Duchamp, among many others. To perfect the space, the museum s backers are currently constructing a rooftop garden and outdoor gallery space, slated to open in 2009.
The de Young is one of Golden Gate Park s strangest edifices, constructed with a façade of copper plates that will change color with exposure to the elements. The fine art museum gets its name from newspaper tycoon M.H. de Young and has existed in one form or another since 1895. Though its previous incarnations were damaged by earthquakes, the latest design incorporates ball-bearing sliding plates that allow the building to move with the fault lines to protect it from catastrophe.
The Ferry Building s iconic clock tower is visible from Market Street and the bay, and the building serves as a terminal for various commuter vessels. holiday travel park virginia beach Modeled after Medieval Spanish architecture, holiday travel park virginia beach it s been around since 1898 and has survived several earthquakes with little damage. The surrounding Embarcadero is a popular waterfront shopping destination.
Parc Fifty Five s unique design includes a bay window in every guest room and panoramic city views of the hotel s surroundings; it s located in the middle of downtown, adjacent to both Union Square and Chinatown. Its terrace-like design means that many luxury rooms are walled almost entirely with windows, and its guests are treated to incredible views of the nighttime skyline and sunsets on the bay. With thoughtfully furnished rooms, enormous staircases, and several onsite restaurants, it s one of San Francisco s best-designed luxury hotels.
San Francisco holiday travel park virginia beach s most famous skyscraper occupies the former location of the Montgomery Block, a monolith that was hailed as fire- and earthquake-proof. Its 48 floors house office and retail space, as well as a remarkable 18 elevators. Its unique shape is due to SF zoning challenges; holiday travel park virginia beach Transamerica s architects wanted to maximize holiday travel park virginia beach office space on a relatively small lot. It s certainly the hallmark of the city s skyline and is frequently utilized in films about the Bay Area.