LACMA's New David Geffen Galleries by Peter Zumthor Opens in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art has unveiled its new David Geffen Galleries, a 110,000-square-foot permanent-collection building designed by Swiss architect Peter Zumthor. The Pritzker Prize-winning architect created a biomorphic structure that the museum promotes as a standalone work of art. This architectural sculpture aims to attract attention in a competitive, star-focused city while drawing new patrons and collectors. The building features restaurants on its lower level. While visually striking, the space presents challenges for displaying art effectively in its initial configuration. The museum seeks to balance global ambitions with local relevance through this development. The galleries opened on April 22, 2026. Critics note that visitor orientation within the unconventional layout could be improved.
Key facts
- The David Geffen Galleries opened at LACMA on April 22, 2026
- The building spans 110,000 square feet
- Swiss architect Peter Zumthor designed the structure
- Zumthor is a Pritzker Prize winner
- The museum describes the building as a standalone work of art
- The design is biomorphic and sculptural
- Restaurants are located on the lower level
- The building aims to attract new patrons and collectors
Entities
Artists
- Peter Zumthor
- Holland Cotter
- Jennelle Fong
Institutions
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art
- The New York Times
Locations
- Los Angeles
- United States
- Switzerland