The iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is known for its distinctive red-orange color. But why is it painted that shade instead of a golden color that matches its name? The story behind the Golden Gate Bridge’s famous paint job involves some interesting history, science, and even a bit of controversy.
The Original Color Choice
When the Golden Gate Bridge was first envisioned in the early 1900s, the original color proposed for its steel suspension cables and towers was actually a golden-brown tone. The first consulting architect on the project, Joseph Strauss, wanted the bridge to stand out visually and complement the setting around the San Francisco Bay.
In 1921, Strauss submitted his initial bridge design plans featuring a golden-tinted steel structure to blend in with the warm natural tones of the surrounding landscape. The golden color was meant to evoke the strait that the bridge would span over – the Golden Gate Strait, named by early explorers for the golden sunsets over the entryway to the San Francisco Bay.
Why Red Was Chosen Instead
However, the golden brown color scheme was ultimately rejected. When the bridge construction began in 1933, the steel components arrived coated in a red-orange primer. This led the consulting architect Irving Morrow to realize the bridge would look better if it was a deeper, vibrant red-orange instead of a golden brown:
- Enhanced visibility for passing ships – The brighter, more visible red-orange color would improve the bridge’s safety and prevent collisions, especially in San Francisco’s famously dense fog.
- Complemented the green hills – The red-orange popped against the green hills of the surrounding landscape more than a golden brown would.
- Withstood corrosion – The red-orange primer already coated on the steel had zinc and rust-resistant properties.
So despite its ‘Golden’ name, the Golden Gate Bridge took on its now-legendary red-orange shade for practical purposes by the time it opened in 1937.
The Specific Color Formula
But what exact paint color is used on the Golden Gate Bridge today? The bridge painters use a specially mixed coating called International Orange. Originally named Illuminating Orange, the color was created back in the 1930s.
The exact specifications of the custom International Orange paint are:
- Pantone: PMS 179 C
- CMYK: 0, 69, 91, 0
- RGB: 244, 84, 37
- Hex: #F4541B
This bright orange hue provides high visibility for ships and planes even in low light conditions. The Golden Gate Bridge’s maintenance crew must frequently recoat the entire bridge to maintain the vivid color against the elements.
How Much Paint is Needed?
Painting the mile-long Golden Gate Bridge is an enormous undertaking. Here are some key facts about the monumental painting project:
- Total surface area to paint: 129,750,000 square feet
- Crew size: 38-40 workers
- Paint used per coat: 130,000 gallons
- Coats applied: 2 full coats
- Total paint for one repainting: 260,000 gallons
It requires extensive rigging to hang scaffolding and drop cloths under the bridge spans for the painters. To paint the upper portions, crews are lifted in movable platforms from below.
How Often is the Bridge Painted?
With the harsh sea air environment, the Golden Gate Bridge requires frequent repainting to look its best and resist corrosion:
- Full repaints: Every 20-30 years
- Spot painting: Ongoing between full repaints
The most recent full re-coating was completed in 2016. Over 30 years, the bright International Orange color had faded to a duller rust-brown tone on much of the bridge. The complete repainting project took over 3 years and cost $129 million in preparation and materials.
Controversy Over the Color
While the Golden Gate Bridge’s red-orange is now considered a classic, some still argue the original golden brown would have been a better choice:
- Doesn’t match the name – Critics say the color is misleading vs. the bridge’s name.
- Clashes with natural tones – Some feel the bright orange clashes with the bay’s neutral tones.
- Negative symbolism – The red is seen by some as associated with aggression, danger, or communism.
There have been proposals over the decades to change the paint color to a real golden hue, but they never gained enough support to override tradition.
The Color Grabs Attention
Regardless of the criticisms, the eye-catching International Orange color endures as a San Francisco signature. The Golden Gate Bridge’s distinctive paint job ensures it stands out in its surroundings.
For better or worse, the color is linked worldwide with the Bay Area’s identity and status as a bright, bold, and welcoming place. After over 80 years, it seems unlikely the Golden Gate Bridge will ever sport a different hue.
Key Facts About the Golden Gate Bridge’s Color
| Year Color Selected | Original Color Proposed | Current Color Name | Pantone Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 | Golden brown | International Orange | PMS 179 C |
Conclusion
The Golden Gate Bridge stands as an iconic landmark recognized around the world for its vibrant orange paint. What began as a practical attempt to improve visibility and wear has now become an integral part of the bridge’s identity. The unique color contrasts beautifully with San Francisco’s natural landscape. While some still question if the orange was the best choice, it continues to catch the eye and connect with the imaginations of visitors from far and wide.
