Transamerica Pyramid

The Transamerica Pyramid rises as a sharp, four-sided spire of white quartz aggregate, tapering to a point eight hundred and fifty-three feet above the street. When construction finished in nineteen seventy-two, the project faced fierce resistance from residents who viewed the unconventional tower as an intrusion on the city skyline. William Pereira, the architect, defended the design for its ability to allow sunlight to reach the streets below. Today, the building serves as the iconic anchor of the Financial District.