Laguna Niguel’s stepped landmark began with a corporate plan that never worked out. According to the General Services Administration’s building history, the structure was built for Rockwell International, but the company never occupied it after an anticipated defense contract failed to materialize.
Rockwell offered to exchange the property for three surplus government facilities of equal value. GSA took control in 1974, giving the building a federal career. In 1978, it was rededicated in honor of Congressman Chet Holifield.
William L. Pereira & Associates designed the building, which was constructed between 1968 and 1971. Its seven-tier silhouette refers to ancient Mesopotamian ziggurats. Much of the enormous building sits below ground, reducing how much of its mass appears above the surrounding site. Recessed windows and sloping concrete walls give the exterior its distinctive rhythm.
The building also has screen credits: GSA lists appearances in Coma, Deal of the Century and Outbreak. Its history page links to a 2025 virtual tour, letting visitors explore the architecture from home. This feature focuses on the building’s origins and design; the archival photograph does not establish current access or ownership.
