The building was designed by Albert Pissis , It exemplifies the Beaux Arts architecture commercial classicism strongly evident in the reconstruction of downtown San Francisco following the 1906 earthquake and fire . The Corinthian façade begins the colonnaded parade of temple banks that runs northward from Montgomery Street to Columbus Avenue . The building is only 27.5 feet wide , and while this narrow façade offered less opportunity for innovation than would a larger street frontage , it demanded greater innovation to achieve architectural excellence
1906 earthquake and fire
1906 San Francisco earthquake
Borel & Co.