LACMA Unveils Stunning New David Geffen Galleries

Architect Peter Zumthor's long-awaited museum design finally opens to LA's cultural elite.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:49pm

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An abstract close-up image of shimmering sequins and glittering disco ball fragments, captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to convey the glamorous atmosphere of LACMA's opening celebration.LACMA's dazzling opening gala celebrated the museum's new era with a vibrant display of Hollywood glamour and cultural energy.Los Angeles Today

After over two decades of planning and construction, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has officially opened its new David Geffen Galleries building designed by renowned architect Peter Zumthor. The star-studded opening gala on Thursday night drew hundreds of donors, board members, artists, gallerists, celebrities, and musicians to celebrate the museum's new era.

Why it matters

LACMA's new building represents a major milestone for the museum and the Los Angeles arts community. The project has been in the works for over 20 years, and its completion marks the realization of a long-held vision to create a bold, innovative space that can better showcase the museum's impressive collection and serve as a hub for the city's vibrant cultural scene.

The details

The opening gala featured a diverse array of entertainment, including a procession of masquerade performers from Lagos. Architect Peter Zumthor, who designed the building as his first project in the United States, was present at the event and seemed both intensely happy and a bit dazed by the festivities unfolding around his creation. LACMA director Michael Govan, who has spearheaded the project, was also in attendance, greeting guests with visible excitement.

  • LACMA broke ground on the new building over 20 years ago.
  • The David Geffen Galleries officially opened to the public on April 17, 2026.
  • Filmmaker Wim Wenders has been working on a documentary about architect Peter Zumthor for the past 12 years, waiting to capture Zumthor in the completed building.

The players

Peter Zumthor

The Pritzker Prize-winning architect who designed the new LACMA building, his first project in the United States.

Michael Govan

The CEO and director of LACMA, who has spearheaded the museum's expansion project for over two decades.

Wim Wenders

The acclaimed filmmaker who has been working on a documentary about architect Peter Zumthor for the past 12 years, waiting to capture Zumthor in the completed LACMA building.

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What they’re saying

“It's nice. Do you like it?”

— Peter Zumthor, Architect

“What...is that?”

— Peter Zumthor, Architect

What’s next

Filmmaker Wim Wenders is expected to complete his documentary on architect Peter Zumthor now that the LACMA building has officially opened.

The takeaway

LACMA's new David Geffen Galleries represent the culmination of a decades-long effort to create a bold, innovative space that can better showcase the museum's impressive collection and serve as a hub for Los Angeles' vibrant cultural scene. The opening gala was a celebration of this milestone achievement, drawing the city's cultural elite to witness the realization of this long-held vision.