Top of the World
The Chiat Day Building, in Venice Beach California was designed by Frank Gehry, for clients, the Chiat Day Advertising company. The surprising facade makes this one of Gehry's most recognizable commissions. Approaching the building on Main Street, one is confronted by a succession of three elements that essentially function as a billboard for the advertising agency. Its literal centerpiece is the monumental pair of binoculars—developed in collaboration with artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen—which functions as an entrance for cars and pedestrians and contains conference spaces within. This playful component is positioned between the hull-shaped building on the north and a facade of copper-covered rectangular columns and diagonal beams, which has been likened to a group of trees, on the south.
As a starting point for the interior design of the L-shaped, 75,000 square-foot plan, Gehry drew upon his previous configurations for the Rouse Company Headquarters (1969–74) and Mid-Atlantic Toyota (1976–78). The space is open, and the height of cubicle walls are varied to break the monotony of the interior, also facilitating interaction between departments. Natural light filters through the entire space via a network of skylights located throughout the main office area and within individual meeting rooms. Although the detailing is limited to basic plywood fixtures and standard office furniture, this neutrality gives employees the freedom to personalize their spaces, thus acknowledging the inventive nature of the company.
