Renowned architect Frank Gehry, known for his groundbreaking designs that have left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape, has passed away at the age of 96. Meaghan Lloyd, the chief of staff at Gehry Partners, LLP, confirmed his death on Friday at his residence in Santa Monica, California, following a brief illness.
Gehry’s innovative and unconventional approach to architecture brought to life iconic structures such as Toronto’s Art Gallery of Ontario, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain, the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, and the Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park, California. His distinctive creations garnered global attention, making him a household name in the world of architecture and beyond. Gehry even made a cameo as a cartoon version of himself on an episode of “The Simpsons.”
Facing criticism for his avant-garde designs was a routine part of Gehry’s career, as he once mentioned during the unveiling of his initial concept for a trio of condo buildings in Toronto. Despite initial backlash from some Torontonians, Gehry’s projects ultimately pushed boundaries and reshaped skylines.
Born Frank Owen Goldberg in 1929 to Polish immigrant parents in Toronto, Gehry’s architectural journey began with his grandparents, who ignited his passion for design by encouraging him to construct imaginary structures from wood scraps. This early influence shaped Gehry’s future as a trailblazing architect.
After relocating to Los Angeles in 1947 and becoming a U.S. citizen, Gehry embarked on a remarkable career that saw him transform the architectural landscape. From his early projects in Southern California to his global ventures in the 1990s, Gehry’s designs captivated audiences with their boldness and creativity.
Gehry’s legacy extends beyond his architectural feats, as he actively engaged with the next generation of creators through programs like Turnaround Arts. His impact on arts education and advocacy earned him the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.
In a statement, Canada’s Gov. Gen. Mary Simon praised Gehry as a visionary whose innovative designs reshaped modern architecture and urban landscapes. Prime Minister Mark Carney also paid tribute to Gehry, hailing him as an architectural icon whose bold vision has left an indelible imprint on cities worldwide.