The Bank of America Plaza, often called the “pencil building,” is one of Atlanta’s most recognizable landmarks. Standing tall between Midtown Atlanta and Downtown Atlanta, this skyscraper is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the city’s growth and ambition. With its golden spire and unique design, it has become a defining feature of Atlanta’s skyline.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Bank of America Plaza, including its history, design, sustainability efforts, and cultural significance.
General Overview of Bank of America Plaza
The Bank of America Plaza is located at 600 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Completed in 1992, this 55-story skyscraper stands at an architectural height of 1,023 feet (311.8 meters), making it the tallest building in Georgia, the Southeastern United States, and any U.S. state capital.
Designed in a postmodern style with Art Deco influences, the building is not only a commercial hub but also a masterpiece of engineering and design. Its golden spire and illuminated steel pyramid make it a standout feature of Atlanta’s skyline, especially at night.
Key Information About Bank of America Plaza
Here’s a quick snapshot of the most important details about the Bank of America Plaza:
| Feature | Details |
| Address | 600 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Height (Architectural) | 1,023 ft (311.8 m) |
| Height (Roof) | 933 ft (284.4 m) |
| Floor Count | 55 |
| Floor Area | 1,312,980 sq ft (121,980 m²) |
| Construction Started | 1991 |
| Construction Completed | 1992 |
| Construction Cost | $150 million |
| Owner | CP Group and HPS Investment Partners LLC |
| Architects | Kevin Roche, John Dinkeloo, and Associates |
| Structural Engineer | CBM Engineers Inc. |
| Spire Height | 90 ft (27 m), covered in 23-karat gold leaf |
| Elevators | 24 |
| LEED Certification | Silver (for sustainability) |
Architectural Design and Features
The Bank of America Plaza is a stunning example of postmodern architecture with Art Deco influences. It was designed by Kevin Roche, John Dinkeloo, and Associates, with structural engineering by CBM Engineers Inc.
Key Design Features
- Golden Spire: The building is crowned with a 90-foot (27-meter) spire covered in 23-karat gold leaf. This spire is illuminated at night, giving the building a warm, glowing presence in the Atlanta skyline.
- Vertical Lines: The vertical design elements emphasize the building’s height and create spacious corner offices on each floor.
- Open-Lattice Steel Pyramid: Below the spire, there’s an open-lattice pyramid structure that adds to the building’s elegance.
- Lighting: The spire and pyramid are illuminated with yellow-orange lighting at night, making the building visible from miles away.
- Empire State Building Inspiration: The design is often compared to New York’s Empire State Building and Chrysler Building due to its Art Deco elements.
The design not only reflects architectural brilliance but also ensures practicality, with ample office space and modern amenities.
Historical Significance
When it was completed in 1992, the Bank of America Plaza was the tallest building in the United States outside of New York City and Chicago. It remains a record-holder as the tallest building in:
- Georgia
- The Southeastern United States
- Any U.S. state capital
It surpassed One Atlantic Center as Georgia’s tallest building and has since become a symbol of Atlanta’s economic and cultural growth.
Sustainability and Renovations
In recent years, the Bank of America Plaza has undergone significant renovations to improve its sustainability and modernize its facilities.
Renovation Highlights
- In 2014, the building underwent a $30 million renovation. This included updates to the lobby, health club, and conference facilities.
- The building achieved LEED Silver Certification, highlighting its commitment to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
- It was recognized as an EcoDistrict Green Luminary, further solidifying its status as a leader in sustainable urban development.
These efforts ensure that the Bank of America Plaza remains a modern, eco-friendly space for businesses in Atlanta.
Cultural and Popular References
The Bank of America Plaza is not just an office building; it’s a cultural icon. Over the years, it has been featured in various TV shows and media, showcasing its prominence in Atlanta’s skyline.
Notable Appearances
- The building appeared in the TV series Halt and Catch Fire, where it served as the headquarters for Westgroup Energy.
- It was also featured in The Resident, further cementing its status as a recognizable landmark.
- The golden spire and unique shape make it a frequent subject in cityscape shots of Atlanta.
Its cultural significance goes beyond its physical presence, representing Atlanta’s growth and ambition on a national and global scale.
Criticism and Future Development
While the Bank of America Plaza is admired for its design and height, it has faced criticism from urban planners for its “tower in a park” design.
Key Criticisms
- The building’s design lacks integration with the surrounding urban environment.
- It discourages pedestrian access due to its large driveways and lack of sidewalk-facing retail spaces.
Future Development Plans
There are ongoing discussions about redeveloping the surrounding area. Potential plans include:
- Transforming the driveways and lawns into mixed-use buildings.
- Creating more pedestrian-friendly spaces to better integrate the building with the urban fabric of Atlanta.
These changes could enhance the building’s role in the city and address some of the criticisms it has faced over the years.
Ownership History
The Bank of America Plaza has changed hands several times since its completion.
- In 2006, it was purchased by BentleyForbes for $436 million.
- In 2012, it was acquired via foreclosure by LNR and lenders.
- In 2016, it was bought by Shorenstein Properties.
- Most recently, in 2022, it was acquired by CP Group and HPS Investment Partners LLC.
The current owners have continued to invest in the building, ensuring its status as a premier commercial property in Atlanta.
Why Bank of America Plaza is Unique
The Bank of America Plaza stands out for several reasons:
- Its height makes it a defining feature of Atlanta’s skyline.
- The golden spire and illuminated pyramid create a unique visual identity.
- It combines modern sustainability practices with timeless architectural design.
- Its cultural significance makes it more than just a building—it’s a symbol of Atlanta’s ambition and growth.
For locals and visitors alike, the Bank of America Plaza is a must-see landmark that represents the best of Atlanta’s past, present, and future.
Conclusion
The Bank of America Plaza is more than just a skyscraper; it’s a symbol of Atlanta’s progress and innovation. From its stunning design and historical significance to its sustainability efforts and cultural impact, the building continues to play a vital role in the city’s identity.