Fondation Louis Vuitton: Construction Timeline and Phasing

A timeline of the Fondation Louis Vuitton’s construction—phasing, lifts, and testing for timber, steel, and glass.

12/28/2025

12 min read

Construction Aerial

Overview

From groundworks to glass sails—how schedules, lifts, and testing choreographed a complex build in the Jardin d’Acclimatation.

Timeline Table

Stage	Notes
Groundworks	Services, foundations, site logistics
Structure	Timber arches + steel ribs erection
Envelope	Glass sails testing + installation
Commissioning	Systems tuning, livery tests

Site Logistics

Crane positioning within wooded context.
Delivery sequencing to avoid park disruption.

Testing & Tolerances

Mockups validate glass curvature + fixings.
Tolerance checks at wood/steel interfaces.

Tip: Track field RFIs to see design responding to site realities.

Checklist

Confirm lift sequencing
Validate envelope mockups
Commission lighting + color livery

About the Author

Practice Notes

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.