The world of architecture is mourning the loss of Frank Gehry, the renowned Canadian-American architect who left an indelible mark on the global landscape. Gehry, who was 96, passed away on December 5, 2025, at his home in Santa Monica, California, following a brief respiratory illness.
Gehry’s groundbreaking designs, characterized by their bold, sculptural forms and innovative use of materials, have transformed cities worldwide. His iconic works include the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain; the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles; and the Louis Vuitton Foundation in Paris.
Gehry’s architectural style, often described as deconstructivist, challenged traditional notions of building design. He was among the first architects to harness the power of computer-aided design, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in architecture. His use of unconventional materials, such as titanium and stainless steel, added a dynamic, almost otherworldly quality to his creations.
Gehry’s contributions to architecture have been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize, the Royal Institute of British Architects gold medal, and the Companion of the Order of Canada.
Tributes are pouring in from around the world, celebrating Gehry’s life and legacy. Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn praised Gehry’s ability to “create spaces that lift up artists and bring generations of people together”. Governor Gavin Newsom and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, hailed Gehry as a “mind behind some of the most iconic architectural feats in the world”.
