Art Gensler’s Influence Reached Far and Wide

Art Gensler, an architect and visionary who propelled a small practice into one of the largest firms in the industry, passed away earlier this week at his home in Mill Valley, CA. He was 85.

Of all the architects of his generation, Gensler stands out as the pre-eminent firm-builder. During a 65-year career, his gift to the firm was an ethos that has allowed Gensler to continue to grow and prosper.

Under Gensler’s leadership, the firm grew rapidly with offices opening around the country in the 1970s and 1980s, and then internationally in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, the firm has gone from an interior architecture practice to a full-service multidisciplinary design firm with more than 5,000 people and 50 locations around the globe.

“Our guiding principle comes from what Art taught and ingrained in all of us – that it’s about love for our clients, and being there for them and providing solutions to help them succeed,” said Cindy Simpson, co-regional managing principal, South Central Region.

Gensler founded the firm to be adaptive and proactive as well as client centered. His driving force was to put clients’ needs at the center of every project.

“We believe everything we do begins and ends with our client relationships,” adds Steven Upchurch, co-managing director of Gensler Dallas.

In North Texas, Gensler has been responsible for some of the most prominent projects that are shaping the future of Dallas and neighboring cities including 400 Record, Toyota Music Factory, Legacy West, Hall of State at Fair Park restoration and The Star at Frisco.

Gensler was predeceased by his wife of nearly 60 years. He is survived by his four sons, David, Robert, Douglas and Kenneth and their families.