Transamerica Pyramid

1:2000 scale miniature paper model, about 5 inches tall

This unique skyscraper was designed by architect William Pereira in 1972. The tapered walls resist earthquakes, but the iconic shape has served mainly as the symbol for the Transamerica insurance corporation, although the company no longer occupies the building.

A 1:1500 scale version of this model is printed in the book American Landmarks: Miniature Models to Cut and Assemble

Read more:

• There is no public access to the Transamerica Pyramid, but the building's website provides a virtual visitor center with a webcam at the top of the tower
• Transamerica Insurance info about the pyramid
• Pyramid facts from A View on Cities
• The pyramid survived the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake without damage
• A list of other modern pyramids

How to build the Transamerica Pyramid Order the postcard