The architectural community in San Francisco is grieving the sudden passing of Olle Lundberg, a pioneering architect whose creations significantly influenced the visual identity of the Bay Area. Best recognized for crafting the renowned "wavy" Muni bus stop shelters, which have come to represent the city's public transportation, Lundberg died on October 31, 2025, at 71 years old. His firm, Lundberg Design, confirmed his passing, where he established himself as a trailblazer in architecture that prioritizes craftsmanship and material selection.
Lundberg established Lundberg Design in 1987 and swiftly gained acclaim for his distinctive design philosophy that merges creativity with functionality. His creations highlighted the sensuous appeal of natural materials and showcased a deep comprehension of structure and design, distinguishing him from his peers. In 1996, he relocated his expanding company to the Dogpatch area of San Francisco, converting a defunct mattress factory into a studio for architecture and craft. This site, situated on Third Street, became the operational base of Lundberg Design as well as a notable landmark, reflecting the ideals of ingenuity, skill, and creativity.
In addition to his celebrated Muni bus shelters, Lundberg’s impact is evident in various prominent projects throughout the Bay Area. His involvement in restaurants like Flour + Water, Mourad, and The Slanted Door, along with his designs for the old Twitter headquarters, has left a profound imprint on both the dining and technology sectors of the city. His portfolio is also filled with high-end residential developments that showcase his expertise in integrating design with material characteristics.
Numerous tributes to Lundberg have emerged from friends, colleagues, and various members of the design world. His firm characterized him as "larger than life," highlighting his ability to convey the significance of design in both significant and personal environments. The tribute noted, "He had a distinct perspective on the architecture profession and a remarkable capability to articulate essential concepts regarding the value of design on any scale." "His enduring legacy of craftsmanship and material-driven architectural work has made a permanent mark on the field, which his firm will continue."
Lundberg was also an inventive self-starter with an unwavering commitment to fabrication and craftsmanship. His hands-on style of architecture motivated countless generations of designers and builders. In 2015, he released a book titled An Architecture of Craft, where he elaborated on his design principles and enthusiasm for craftsmanship. At the moment of his passing, he was organizing a series of book discussions and events that will now be commemorated in his honor.
Olle Lundberg’s influence as an architect who combined creativity, craftsmanship, and design will persist in shaping the Bay Area and its architectural community for many years ahead. His contributions to the field and his inspirational presence will remain in the memories of those who knew him.
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