Vitra has announced the death of architect Frank Gehry (1929–2025), describing him as a defining force in the evolution of the company and the Vitra Design Museum. Gehry's first building for Vitra, completed in 1989, brought immediate international attention to the museum and established the foundation for what would become the Vitra Campus. His 1994 headquarters building in Birsfelden marked a shift in workplace thinking, expressing what the company described as an aspirational identity.
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The late, Frank Gehry.
Gehry's impact on Vitra extended beyond architecture. His "Little Beaver" armchair was a key piece of the 1987 Vitra Edition, and designs from his Easy Edges cardboard furniture series remain in production. His influence also shaped the future of the campus, encouraging the participation of architects such as Zaha Hadid and Álvaro Siza. According to Vitra, his motto "Push the Envelope" inspired the company to embrace experimentation.
His long collaboration with Vitra fostered a close friendship with chairman Rolf Fehlbaum, described as 'a client who would become part of his life'. The company notes that while his death is deeply felt, his buildings continue to challenge conventions and will remain a lasting part of his legacy.
Source: LinkedIn.
