“Architectural Titan Frank Gehry Dies at 96, Leaving Behind a Sculptural Legacy”

Legendary architect Frank Gehry—known worldwide for his bold, sculptural buildings—has died, aged 96. He passed away on December 5, 2025, at his home in Santa Monica, California, after a brief respiratory illness.

Frank Gehry was one of the most influential architects of his generation. His work redefined modern architecture by turning buildings into expressive, often challenging works of art. His iconic creations—such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles—reshaped the way we think about architecture, blending form and function with audacious style. 

Gehry’s work sparked what came to be known as the “Bilbao effect”—the idea that bold, statement‑making architecture can transform cities economically, culturally, and socially. Over his decades-long career, he embraced new technologies (like computer-aided design) and materials, pushing the boundaries of what architecture could be.

His Life and Legacy in Brief

• Born in Toronto in 1929 as Frank Owen Goldberg, he later moved to Los Angeles, studied architecture, and in 1962 founded his own firm. What began modestly—designing houses, small buildings, and even shopping centers—evolved over time into visionary architecture that transformed skylines across the world.Even in his 90s, Gehry remained active, working on major projects around the world. 

• He is survived by his wife, children, and — perhaps most importantly — a legacy of buildings that will continue to inspire architects, artists and cities for generations.

 Frank Gehry’s most iconic buildings

1. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (Spain, 1997)

• Perhaps Gehry’s most famous work and the origin of the “Bilbao ”Effect”—showing how landmark architecture can revitalize a city.

• Known for its flowing, titanium-clad forms that resemble a ship or a sculpture.

• Recognized worldwide as a symbol of contemporary architectural daring.

2. Walt Disney Concert Hall (Los Angeles, USA, 2003)

• Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

• Stainless steel curves and sweeping forms make the building both a visual spectacle and an acoustically acclaimed concert hall.

• Represents Gehry’s signature style of combining functionality with expressive art forms.

3. Dancing House (Prague, Czech Republic, 1996)

• Also called Fred and Ginger, a collaboration with Vlado Milunić.

• Features a deconstructivist, almost fluid design that seems to move like a pair of dancers.

• Iconic for blending modern design into a historic cityscape.

4. Fondation Louis Vuitton (Paris, France, 2014)

• A contemporary art museum sponsored by LVMH.

• Glass “sails” create a sense of motion and lightness, floating above the gardens of the Bois de Boulogne.

• A triumph of Gehry’s sculptural approach and advanced engineering techniques.

  

5. Vitra Design Museum Expansion (Weil am Rhein, Germany, 1989)

• Gehry’s first major European project, influencing his later international style.

• Combines angular forms and unconventional materials, showcasing deconstructivist architecture.

• Celebrated as a pioneering work that cemented Gehry’s reputation in Europe.