Explore Frank Gehry’s Architectural Legacy: 9 Iconic Structures

Renowned architect Frank Gehry, who passed away on December 5, 2025, at the age of 96, left a profound impact on the world of architecture. His innovative designs, characterized by a deconstructivist style, have transformed skylines across the globe. From the twisting forms of his residential projects to grand public buildings, Gehry’s work is celebrated for its artistic flair and social relevance.

One of his notable projects, Opus Hong Kong, is a condominium located on Stubbs Road in Hong Kong’s Mid-Levels. This building, Gehry’s first residential project in Asia, features a distinctive twisting design that provides unique floor plans and stunning views. The helical structure reduces the need for load-bearing walls, permitting extensive glazing that enhances the occupants’ experience.

Gehry’s Iconic Structures Around the World

Gehry’s influence is evident in various landmark buildings that have become cultural icons. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, completed in 1997, is a prime example. This 24,000 square meter museum, clad in roughly 33,000 titanium plates, not only showcases contemporary art but also revitalized the city of Bilbao economically and socially. The term “Bilbao Effect” emerged as a result, referring to the transformative impact of cultural institutions on urban regeneration.

Another significant project is the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Opened in 2003, this venue was funded by a US$50 million donation from Lillian Disney to honour her late husband. The concert hall features an innovative design with acoustics expertly crafted by renowned acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota. Its stainless-steel exterior and unique seating arrangement enhance the overall experience for concertgoers.

The Fondation Louis Vuitton, opened in 2014 in Paris, serves as an art museum and cultural centre. Its design draws inspiration from historic glass-and-iron structures, emulating the sails of boats. The museum hosts a variety of exhibitions featuring prominent artists, contributing to Paris’s vibrant art scene.

Other Noteworthy Projects

In addition to his larger works, Gehry also designed the Biomuseo in Panama City, completed in 2014. This structure, with its vibrant canopies, reflects the biodiversity of the region and serves as a public educational space. Gehry’s architectural approach is notable for integrating local culture and environment into his designs.

The Dancing House in Prague, known as “Ginger and Fred,” is another remarkable example of Gehry’s work. This building, completed in 1996, features a unique combination of a glass tower and a stone structure that resembles two dancers. It has become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Located in the Basque Country of Spain, Hotel Marques de Riscal merges luxurious accommodations with Gehry’s signature style. The hotel, situated within a wine estate, features striking ribbons of pink and gold titanium that echo the region’s wine culture. It has helped attract oenophiles to the area, further enhancing its status as a destination.

Lastly, the Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rhein, Germany, was Gehry’s first completed project in Europe. This museum showcases design history while maintaining a more subdued presence compared to his other works, demonstrating Gehry’s versatility as an architect.

Throughout his six-decade career, Gehry garnered numerous accolades, including the Pritzker Prize in 1989 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016. His work continues to inspire and influence future generations of architects and designers. As Gehry’s legacy endures, his buildings stand as testaments to creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of the human experience.