The Thalberg building at Sony Pictures Studios originally housed the executive offices of MGM and has been designated with Landmark status by the City of Culver City. This building is considered one of the most impressive examples of Moderne style architecture in Southern California. To reflect that design, the lobby has butterflied walnut walls, terrazzo floor and a Lalique crystal screen, which mirrors the design of the elevator doors just outside the lobby area. Louis B. Mayer, studio chief of MGM, had an office on the third floor and a private dining room on the fourth.

The building was named after Irving G. Thalberg, the young producer whom Mayer made head of production at the age of 24. Considered a “boy wonder,” Thalberg was known for making high quality pictures and instrumental in MGM’s early success. He introduced a number of production measures that have become standard practice today, but despite his success and standing in Hollywood, Thalberg was modest and never allowed his credit to be put on any film that he produced.