The Golden Gate is beautiful because of its sheer size and what it spans. You can find similar suspension bridges all over the east coast.
Architecturally signifcant public buildings in major metropolitan centers are a different matter. Building palacial fire stations in every cash strapped city across SoCal is irresponsible. Not to mention the RSF Building is garish and gaudy not elegant. Its the architural equivalent to many of the tract mcmansions.
Public buildings should be utilitarian not monuments to excess. They should also match their settings not go far and above. For example, most people have a big misconception about RSF because of the wealth there which is along the lines of Beverly Hills. The real charm of RSF is its understated country atmosphere. Yes there are some real palaces there built as monuments to individual egos but most RSF architecture is relatively simple and timeless.
