Architect Community Loses Two Greats

Architects Helmut Jahn and Art Gensler

Our condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the two industry giants we lost this week.

German-American architect Helmut Jahn designed the iconic 1 American Plaza in downtown San Diego (an unmistakable addition to our beautiful skyline) and his many wonderful buildings all over the world.

Art Gensler was more than a great architect; he was a dynamic businessman redefining the business of architecture without compromising his core values in design and his clients. He said, “We must recognize that design is ‘coloring outside the lines.’ Design can be the great synthesizer. Designers must be idea makers.”

Our city is better for both of their contributions, and we thank them for it.

Photo: L. Helmut Jahn & R. Art Gensler