frank Gehry: A Giant of Modern Architecture Passes Away

Born in Toronto in 1929, the architect Frank Gehry, a true giant of modern architecture, passed away yesterday in his home in Santa monica. He was a protagonist of modern deconstructivism, a current opposed to the dominant rationalist movement in architecture. His works have left an absolutely original and unmistakable imprint and have intertwined in the nineties and 2000s with the world of glass and metal architecture – one of the signs of modern architecture. And they were intertwined with the activities of a leading Italian company, which has now become a multinational in the field of modern envelopes and glass and metal facades, the Permasteelisa Group, and its founder Massimo Colomban. It just so happens that the book “giving Shape to Wonders” signed by the venetian entrepreneur is coming out in these days, celebrating the myth of architecture.

Frank Gehry: chi era?

we asked Colomban, who was Gehry’s close collaborator for many years, to comment on the designer’s personality. This is how he remembers: “He was an amazing INNOVATIVE GENIUS. Together we built works that had previously seemed unachievable. He dragged us along and immediately convinced me to use the Dassault software used by Boeing.With these technologies we not only built the Fish of Barcelona but almost all the other works. He had found in me with Permasteelisa the practical, concrete innovator. he even wanted me on his board and gave me shares as a partner in Gehry Technology”.

Two fools we were….

“For me he was brilliant, open, creative as he say

Ennio Braicovich: A Key figure in Realizing Frank Gehry’s Vision

Ennio Braicovich is a prominent figure in the field of architectural engineering, particularly known for his extensive collaboration with renowned architect Frank Gehry. His expertise has been instrumental in translating Gehry’s complex and innovative designs into physical reality, focusing on the engineering and construction challenges inherent in such aspiring projects. Braicovich’s work centers on the advancement of advanced technologies and methodologies for the fabrication and installation of complex building envelopes.

Collaboration with Frank Gehry

Braicovich’s long-standing relationship with Frank Gehry has been pivotal in the realization of some of Gehry’s most iconic buildings. He has played a crucial role in projects that push the boundaries of architectural design and construction. This collaboration highlights the importance of integrating engineering expertise from the earliest stages of the design process.

Key Projects & Permasteelisa

Much of Braicovich’s work with Gehry has been conducted through Permasteelisa, a leading global specialist in architectural envelope design and construction. Permasteelisa has been a key partner in bringing Gehry’s designs to life, and Braicovich has been a central figure within the company responsible for the technical execution of these projects. Some notable examples of their collaborative work include:

• Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (Spain): This landmark building, completed in 1997, is widely considered a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. Braicovich and Permasteelisa were instrumental in developing the titanium cladding system that gives the museum its distinctive appearance. Learn more about the Guggenheim museum Bilbao
• Walt Disney Concert Hall (Los Angeles, USA): completed in 2003, the Walt disney Concert Hall features a stainless steel exterior that required innovative engineering solutions for its complex geometry. Learn more about the Walt Disney Concert Hall
• Louvre Abu Dhabi (UAE): This museum, opened in 2017, features a stunning dome that creates a “rain of light” effect. braicovich’s expertise was crucial in realizing the complex geometry and structural integrity of the dome. learn more about the Louvre Abu Dhabi

Innovative Techniques and Technologies

Braicovich’s work is characterized by a commitment to innovation in architectural engineering. He has been a pioneer in the use of advanced technologies such as:

• Digital Modeling: Utilizing Building Facts Modeling (BIM) and other digital tools to create precise models of complex geometries.
• Parametric Design: Employing algorithms to generate and optimize building designs based on specific parameters.
• Advanced Fabrication Techniques: Developing new methods for manufacturing and assembling complex building components.

Key Takeaways

• Ennio Braicovich is a leading architectural engineer specializing in the realization of complex architectural designs.
• His collaboration with Frank Gehry has been instrumental in the construction of iconic buildings worldwide.
• braicovich’s work through permasteelisa showcases the importance of integrating engineering expertise with architectural vision.
• He is a pioneer in the use of digital modeling, parametric design, and advanced fabrication techniques.

Looking ahead, ennio Braicovich’s continued contributions to architectural engineering will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the future of innovative and sustainable building design. His expertise will be essential as architects continue to push the boundaries of what is structurally and aesthetically possible.

To learn more about Frank Gehry, see a summary portrait in wikipedia.

Images of the creations. Source: Permasteelisa

Published: 2025/12/07 03:02:44