LUMA Arles Tower: Stratified Landscape and Culture

Gehry’s LUMA Arles tower reads as stratified landscape—art, research, and city life in southern light.

1/7/2026

12 min read

LUMA Arles

Overview

A tower that reads as stratified landscape—art, research, and the city meet in southern light.

Facade as Geology

Fragmented stone-like panels mimic layered strata.
Light and shadow animate surfaces across the day.

Structure & Systems

Hybrid structure supporting irregular envelope.
Environmental systems tuned for Arles’ climate.

Program Stack

Level	Use
Upper	Galleries + views
Mid	Research + studios
Base	Public realm, entry

Visitor Flow

Start at base plaza
Spiral up through galleries
Pause at view terraces

Tip: Southern light paints the facade—visit morning and late afternoon for two readings.

About the Author

Architecture Editor

I wrote this guide so your visit to the Fondation Louis Vuitton feels calm, curious, and well‑timed—without missing what makes Gehry’s building so special.