20 Best Architectural Buildings in California: Must-See Structures

California is home to some of the most remarkable architectural structures in the United States. From historic landmarks to modern marvels, the state offers a diverse array of buildings that capture the imagination and reflect its cultural evolution.

For anyone interested in architecture or planning a visit, exploring California’s iconic buildings is a must.

The various architectural styles found throughout California provide a rich visual tapestry. These structures not only define the landscapes of cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles but also highlight the creativity of renowned architects.

Many of these buildings have become symbols of their locales, drawing tourists and architecture enthusiasts from around the world.

1. The Getty Center

The Getty Center, designed by Richard Meier, sits atop a hill in Los Angeles, offering stunning views of the city. Completed in 1997, this architectural marvel includes gardens, museums, and other cultural spaces.

The complex highlights a seamless blend of nature and modern design. Buildings are organized along ridges, creating a unique layout on the 110-acre parcel.

Visitors can access the Center via a cable-pulled tram, adding to the experience. The site cost a remarkable $1.3 billion and is a prominent destination for arts and architecture enthusiasts.

Learn more here.

2. Walt Disney Concert Hall

The Walt Disney Concert Hall, located in downtown Los Angeles, is an iconic piece of modern architecture. Designed by Frank Gehry, this stunning structure opened on October 23, 2003.

The building features striking stainless steel curves and a sleek, futuristic design. It has become a landmark in LA and a beloved home for the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Learn more about the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

3. Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle is a historic estate located on the Central Coast of California. It was conceived by the publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst and designed by architect Julia Morgan.

Construction of Hearst Castle began in 1919 and continued until 1947. The estate includes four major buildings with 165 rooms, swimming pools, and gardens.

The castle, formally known as La Cuesta Encantada (Spanish for “The Enchanted Hill”), offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from its hilltop location. It is now a museum and a California State Park, open to the public.

4. The Broad

The Broad, located in Los Angeles, California, is an impressive piece of architecture designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro. It features a unique “veil-and-vault” structure, giving the building a distinctive, modern appearance.

The museum spans 120,000 square feet and houses a large collection of contemporary art. Its innovative design and rich collection make it a must-visit spot in the city. You can learn more about The Broad at ArchDaily.

5. Salk Institute

The Salk Institute, designed by Louis I. Kahn, is a landmark research facility in La Jolla, California. Founded in 1960 by Jonas Salk, who developed the first effective polio vaccine, this institute is renowned for its striking architecture and scientific contributions.

The building is located on 27 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s celebrated for its open, spacious design, which includes unobstructed laboratories and tranquil courtyards. The architectural masterpiece embodies both functionality and aesthetic beauty.

Learn more about the Salk Institute’s architecture and its history.

6. San Francisco City Hall

San Francisco City Hall is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture. Completed in 1915, it replaced the original building that was destroyed in the 1906 earthquake.

The building’s grand dome rises 307 feet, taller than the U.S. Capitol. Its ornate interior includes a sweeping marble staircase and intricate details.

Located in the Civic Center area, it serves as the heart of San Francisco’s government. Visitors often admire its beauty and historical significance. Learn more about its history here.

7. Transamerica Pyramid

The Transamerica Pyramid is a distinct pyramid-shaped skyscraper located in San Francisco’s Financial District. It stands at 853 feet tall and features 48 floors.

Completed in 1972, the building was designed to let light reach the streets below. It serves as a key element of the city’s skyline, offering high-end office spaces.

For more details, visit the Transamerica Pyramid.

8. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, also known as LACMA, is the largest art museum in the western United States. Located on Wilshire Boulevard, it offers a wide array of visual arts.

Recent developments include a new design by architect Peter Zumthor. This project aims to create a more accessible and modern experience for all visitors.

LACMA showcases a variety of artwork that spans different cultures and time periods. It is renowned for its diverse collections and innovative exhibitions.

Learn more about the museum and its projects on the LACMA website.

9. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles is a standout architectural piece. Designed by renowned architect Rafael Moneo, it opened in 2002. The cathedral features modern and deconstructivist design elements.

One unique aspect is its use of alabaster windows. This cathedral features 33,500 square feet of these windows, creating a striking effect. The natural light inside emphasizes the purity and beauty of the space.

Located between the Civic Centre and the Cultural Centre, the cathedral serves over 5 million Catholics. It also stands as a central landmark in downtown Los Angeles.

10. Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory stands on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. It offers a stunning view of the Los Angeles Basin, including Downtown LA and the Pacific Ocean.

Designed by Russell Porter, it features Art Deco architecture and iconic three-domed structures.

The observatory has appeared in films like “Rebel Without a Cause” and “The Terminator,” making it a cultural landmark. It also provides public astronomy programs and scenic vistas of the Hollywood Sign. For more information, visit Griffith Observatory.

11. Oakland’s Paramount Theatre

Oakland’s Paramount Theatre is an architectural landmark. Built in 1931, it showcases Art Deco design.

It has a seating capacity of 3,040. The building features a remarkable 87-foot mosaic sign on its facade.

The Paramount Theatre is the home of the Oakland East Bay Symphony and Oakland Ballet. Its design was the work of architect Timothy L. Pflueger.

The theatre is known for its multi-purpose use, hosting various music genres and performances. It underwent a renovation in 1972-1973 and continues to be a prime venue for arts and entertainment.

12. Richard Neutra’s Lovell House

Richard Neutra’s Lovell House is a prime example of International Style architecture. Built between 1927 and 1929 in Los Angeles, California, it was designed for physician Philip Lovell.

The Lovell House features clean lines, large glass windows, and a steel frame. Its design promotes health and natural light, incorporating outdoor spaces seamlessly into the living environment.

This house marked a significant point in Neutra’s career, influencing modern design in the United States. For more details, visit the Lovell House on Wikipedia.

13. Pereira’s Geisel Library

Pereira’s Geisel Library, located at the University of California San Diego, stands as an iconic example of Brutalist architecture. Built between 1968 and 1970, the library features eight floors, with two underground levels.

Designed by William L. Pereira & Associates, the building rises 110 feet. Its unique structure includes sixteen 30-foot concrete columns, mimicking hands holding up books. For more details, visit Geisel Library by William Pereira & Associates.

14. The Gamble House

The Gamble House, located at 4 Westmoreland Place in Pasadena, California, is a stunning example of American Craftsman architecture. Designed by the architects Greene and Greene, it was built in 1908-1909 for David B. Gamble, son of the Procter & Gamble founder.

The house features intricate woodwork, stained glass, and custom-made furnishings. It is now a National Historic Landmark and is open for tours. Advance reservations are recommended to explore this piece of architectural history. For more details, visit the Gamble House official site.

15. V.C. Morris Gift Shop by Frank Lloyd Wright

Located at 140 Maiden Lane in San Francisco, the V.C. Morris Gift Shop was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1948. This building is notable for its unique brick facade, which does not display merchandise but instead draws pedestrians into the interior through a dramatic, barrel-vaulted entryway.

Inside, the shop features built-in furniture made of black walnut. The spiral ramp design used here was a prototype for the famous Guggenheim Museum. Wright’s innovative approach in this building showcases his architectural genius and attention to detail, making it a must-see in California.

16. Eames House

The Eames House, also known as Case Study House No. 8, is a significant piece of mid-20th century modern architecture. Located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, it was completed in 1949.

Charles and Ray Eames designed the house to serve as both their home and studio. The structure is celebrated for its innovative use of industrial materials like steel and glass.

Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and a large meadow, the Eames House blends harmoniously with its natural setting. It remains a testament to the Eames’ design philosophies and influence on modern architecture.

17. Westin Bonaventure Hotel

The Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles is an architectural gem. Designed by John C. Portman Jr., it opened in 1976. This 33-story hotel stands at 367 feet tall. Its five cylindrical glass towers offer a striking contrast to nearby rectangular buildings.

Visitors can enjoy a revolving restaurant on the top floor. The hotel’s unique design and iconic features continue to attract visitors. For more on its architecture, visit the Portman Architects page.

18. Farnsworth House

The Farnsworth House is an iconic example of modernist architecture designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Completed between 1945 and 1951, it is located in Plano, Illinois, about 1.5 hours southwest of Chicago. This minimalist, one-room house demonstrates the elegance of simplicity with its steel and glass structure.

Situated close to the Fox River, the house features views of a forest and a meadow. Its elevated design protects it from flooding. This architectural marvel was commissioned by Dr. Edith Farnsworth and remains a significant piece of modern American architecture.

19. Futuristic Cybertecture Egg

The Cybertecture Egg, designed by James Law, stands out for its futuristic design. It integrates advanced technology and sustainable architecture.

Located in Mumbai, India, this building uses a diagrid exo-skeleton, allowing for large, column-less spaces.

It has an elevated garden and a sky garden for natural cooling. The Cybertecture Egg also features PV farms for electricity production, making it an eco-friendly office building. Learn more about the Cybertecture Egg.

20. Sheats-Goldstein House

The Sheats-Goldstein House is a masterpiece of organic architecture designed by John Lautner. Built between 1961 and 1963, it sits in the Beverly Crest neighborhood of Los Angeles. The house is famous for its seamless integration with the sandstone ledge of the hillside.

Offering stunning views from Downtown Los Angeles to the ocean, the Sheats-Goldstein House is an iconic representation of mid-century modern design. Its unique architectural features include concrete and wood elements, blending both natural and modern aesthetics for a harmonious living environment.

For more information on its architectural significance, visit Sheats-Goldstein Residence.

Historical Significance of California Architecture

California’s architecture reflects its rich history, showcasing diverse styles from different eras.

Spanish Colonial Influence

The Spanish colonial era has profoundly shaped California’s architectural identity.

Many structures from this period, such as the Mission San Juan Capistrano, exhibit rustic stone churches and expansive courtyards.

This style, often referred to as Mission Revival, features arched corridors, red-tile roofs, and stucco walls.

One notable example is the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite, designed by Gilbert Stanley Underwood.

Its design blends rustic elegance with Native American motifs, exemplifying the fusion of Spanish colonial and local influences.

Structures from this period often emphasize simplicity and functionality, integrating harmoniously with the natural environment.

The influence of Spanish colonial architecture can still be seen in many modern California buildings, reflecting a blend of historical elements with contemporary design.

Mid-Century Modern Movement

The mid-century modern movement brought sleek lines, large glass windows, and open floor plans to California.

This style emphasized a connection with nature, often incorporating outdoor views and natural light into the design.

Architect Richard Neutra is celebrated for his influential works in this style.

Palm Springs is a hotspot for mid-century modern homes. Iconic buildings like the Kaufmann House embody this trend with their minimalist aesthetics and innovative use of materials.

These designs often emphasize horizontal lines, flat roofs, and integration with the surrounding landscape.

This movement also observed a focus on functional living spaces, using new construction techniques and materials. Its legacy continues in the contemporary design of homes and public buildings throughout California.

Architectural Styles Found in California

California boasts a diverse range of architectural styles that reflect its rich history and cultural influences. Key styles include Art Deco, Mission Revival, and Craftsman Bungalows.

Art Deco

Art Deco emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, featuring bold geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and luxurious materials like chrome and glass.

Notable buildings in the state include the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles.

Characteristics:

• Symmetry: Emphasis on symmetrical shapes creating a balanced and orderly appearance.
• Materials: Use of modern materials such as stainless steel, glass, and terracotta.
• Decorative Elements: Intricate detailing and ornamentation, often with motifs inspired by ancient cultures, such as Egyptian or Aztec designs.

Mission Revival

Mission Revival architecture draws inspiration from the Spanish missions established during the colonization period. It became popular in California in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

A classic example is the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite.

Key features:

• Roofs: Red-tiled roofs with wide eaves.
• Materials: Adobe or stucco walls.
• Arches: Rounded arches often seen in doorways, windows, and arcades.
• Courtyards: Spacious courtyards and garden areas offering a serene, open environment.

Craftsman Bungalows

The Craftsman Bungalows, also known as Arts and Crafts style, emphasize simplicity, handcrafted woodwork, and natural materials.

This style is particularly popular in California’s capital, Sacramento, as detailed by Archiscene.

Important elements:

• Roofs: Low-pitched gabled roofs.
• Front Porches: Large, welcoming front porches often supported by square or tapered columns.
• Materials: Primary use of wood, stone, and brick to create a warm, earthy aesthetic.
• Built-ins: Integrated furniture and storage features.

These styles collectively add to California’s unique and diverse architectural landscape, each bringing its own history and charm to the state’s urban and rural settings.