Melaleuca Headquarters in Idaho Falls Draws Criticism as 'Ugliest Building'

The multi-million dollar compound owned by Idaho's richest man, Frank VanderSloot, has become a target of online ridicule.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:07pm

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A massive, multi-level office complex belonging to the Melaleuca company in Idaho Falls, Idaho has become the subject of widespread criticism online, with many dubbing it the 'ugliest building' in the state. The compound, owned by Idaho's wealthiest resident Frank VanderSloot, features over 1.7 million square feet of office space, a fitness center, restaurant, event center, and more. While some locals see the building as a symbol of home, the unusual and imposing architecture has made it a target of online ridicule and scorn.

Why it matters

The Melaleuca headquarters building has become a lightning rod for debate around architecture, aesthetics, and the role of large corporations in local communities. As one of the most prominent structures in Idaho Falls, the building's divisive design has sparked conversations about balancing functionality, wealth, and community identity.

The details

Melaleuca is a multi-level marketing company founded by Idaho's wealthiest resident, Frank VanderSloot. The company's massive headquarters in Idaho Falls features four levels of office space, a fitness center, a restaurant, a 1,700-seat event center, broadcast rooms, and laboratories. The building's unusual, imposing design has drawn widespread criticism online, with many labeling it the 'ugliest building' in Idaho.

  • Melaleuca was founded in 1985 and has grown to become one of Idaho's largest private companies.
  • The current Melaleuca headquarters building was completed in 2010.

The players

Melaleuca

A multi-level marketing company headquartered in Idaho Falls, Idaho that sells health, home, and personal care products.

Frank VanderSloot

The founder and CEO of Melaleuca, and Idaho's wealthiest resident according to Forbes magazine.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The Melaleuca headquarters building in Idaho Falls has become a divisive symbol, highlighting tensions around corporate wealth, architectural aesthetics, and community identity. As one of the state's most prominent structures, the building's unusual design has sparked ongoing debates about balancing functionality, wealth, and local character.