Gensler pays tribute to its late founder

Gensler, the world’s largest architecture practice, has paid tribute to its founder following his death aged 85.

An industry icon, who not only had the vision to design spaces but understand the power they have to shape how we experience the world, Art Gensler established the firm in 1965 with his late wife Drue and associate James Follett, and soon propelled it to global heights with a collaborative culture and client-first approach.

Despite stepping down as CEO in 2005 and Chairman in 2010, Art impacted the business of architecture in profound ways during his 65-year career, creating the blueprint for how many professional services firms organise and manage themselves to this day. His ‘inside-out’ philosophy, which examined the user journey in a building, laid the foundation for the experience framework now embraced by the design community.

“His gift to the firm was an ethos that allowed it to grow and prosper against all odds,” said Gensler in a tribute to Art’s legacy. “That ethos was distinguished by a belief in collaboration, support of design education and career advancement, respect for individuals, dedication to clients, and endorsement of sustainable design. All these values blended to form the unique and lasting culture he established at his namesake firm.”

Co-CEO Diane Hoskins added: “Art’s legacy on the industry is in how he elevated the interior design profession and drove innovation across an entire industry. His vision was that, together, designers and clients can solve the world’s biggest challenges. This has never been more important than it is right now.”