The Ziggurat: Laguna Niguel's Hidden Landmark with a Mysterious Past and Bold Future

Missy Wiesen
Jun 23
4 min read

Tucked into the hills of Laguna Niguel, near the border of Aliso Viejo sits one of the most curious and under-the-radar buildings in Orange County: the Ziggurat. Officially known as the Chet Holifield Federal Building, this massive concrete pyramid has long been the source of local curiosity, urban legends, and more recently, redevelopment buzz.

It has been there for as long as I can remember, but it’s never seemed all that busy. That said, if you happen to use the parking lot for a quick U-turn or to check your phone, you may quickly find yourself approached by federal officers. Trust me—been there!

Aerial view of the Chet Holifield Federal Building in Laguna Niguel, a massive tiered government structure known as the Ziggurat, surrounded by parking lots and greenery. — The Ziggurat, officially the Chet Holifield Federal Building, is a landmark in Laguna Niguel now facing potential redevelopment as federal agencies prepare to vacate. Its future could reshape the heart of Laguna Niguel.

A Brief History of the Ziggurat

The Ziggurat was constructed between 1968 and 1971 by aerospace contractor North American Aviation, during a time of major technological ambition in Southern California. Designed by renowned architect William Pereira—who also dreamed up the LAX Theme Building and the original UC Irvine campus—it was a bold architectural statement. Massive, monolithic, and pyramid-like, the building was initially meant to house thousands of employees. But that full vision was never realized.

In 1974, the federal government purchased the building and converted it into office space for several agencies, including the IRS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Though it occupies a huge footprint, the building has long appeared underused. Even at peak times, it’s often been called eerily quiet.

Local Lore and Mystery

Ask anyone who grew up or lives in South County, and they’ll probably tell you the Ziggurat feels a little haunted—or at least haunted by the past. Known by locals as “the ghost building,” its maze-like layout, brutalist architecture, and overwhelming quiet have made it ripe for urban legends.

Some residents whisper about Cold War secrets hidden underground or secret government tunnels that run beneath it. Others have jokingly speculated it could be Orange County’s version of Area 51. One thing’s for sure: high security means even innocent curiosity can get you a stern visit from federal personnel.

Front view of the Chet Holifield Federal Building in Laguna Niguel, also known as the Ziggurat, showcasing its distinctive tiered, pyramid-like architecture under a clear blue sky. — The Chet Holifield Federal Building, famously nicknamed "The Ziggurat", stands as one of Laguna Niguel's most recognizable structures. With federal operations winding down, the site is now at the center of major redevelopment discussions poised to reshape the future of South Orange County

From Federal Footprint to Future Development

Fast forward to 2024, and the Ziggurat is now the centerpiece of a major transformation. The General Services Administration (GSA) sold the 92-acre property to Hilco Redevelopment Partners for $177 million, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

The site is now officially designated as one of Laguna Niguel’s General Plan “Opportunity Areas,” meaning the city envisions this zone as a key player in its 2045 growth strategy. The current federal tenants are in the process of relocating, clearing the way for what could be a complete reimagining of the space. Preliminary plans include everything from housing and offices to public green space, parks, and even civic buildings.

A Game-Changer for South County

If you know the area, you know this is no ordinary parcel. Positioned near the border of Aliso Viejo, between La Paz Road and Alicia Parkway, the Ziggurat site has the bones for a walkable, connected urban village. And with the city’s new Active Transportation Plan laying out safer bike paths and trails, it could become one of the most dynamic corners of Laguna Niguel.

Expect conversations around transit-oriented development, mixed-use communities, and thoughtfully designed density. Thousands of housing units and jobs could be added here, transforming what’s now a sleepy block of government real estate into a destination with energy, commerce, and lifestyle appeal.

And if you're a homeowner nearby? You’ll want to watch closely. Projects like this can drive value, bring new amenities, and reshape traffic patterns and neighborhood flow. The ripple effect on property values could be significant, especially as Laguna Niguel continues to lean into walkability and smart growth.

Aerial view of the Ziggurat building in Laguna Niguel, California, surrounded by a large parking lot and nearby retail centers, with residential and hillside areas in the background. — The iconic Ziggurat building in Laguna Niguel, a longtime federal office complex, sits at the heart of a ey redevelopment zone. As the city reimagines its future, this area could play a pivotal role in transforming Laguna Niguel's urban landscape.

Final Thoughts

The Ziggurat has always been something of an enigma—hidden in plain sight. But as Laguna Niguel looks to its 2045 General Plan, this sleeping giant may finally wake up.

Whether you're a longtime local, a curious newcomer, or a buyer looking for value near future development zones, keep an eye on the Ziggurat. And take my advice: if you're tempted to use that parking lot for a quick U-turn, don’t be surprised if a federal officer taps on your window.

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