Lorcan O’Herlihy, Los Angeles-Based Architect Known for Vibrant Designs, Dies at 66

Lorcan O’Herlihy, the founder of the Los Angeles-based firm Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA), died on June 14, 2026, at the age of 66. His passing was confirmed by LOHA, with glioblastoma identified as the cause of death. O’Herlihy was celebrated for his independent artistic spirit and his contributions to architecture in Los Angeles and other American cities.

Early Life and Influences

Born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1959, O’Herlihy’s early life was shaped by his father, Dan O’Herlihy, a prominent actor whose career took the family across the globe. This transient upbringing, moving between Dublin and Malibu, fostered an artistic sensibility. O’Herlihy pursued architecture, earning his degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1981. His formative professional experiences included working with notable firms such as Kevin Roche/John Dinkeloo & Associates, I. M. Pei and Partners, and Steven Holl Architects in New York. These experiences, particularly his time at Steven Holl Architects, are credited with providing a model for the creative and critical approach he would later bring to his own practice.

Founding LOHA and Defining a Style

In 1994, O’Herlihy established Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA) in Los Angeles. The firm quickly distinguished itself within the Southern California architectural scene. O’Herlihy’s work was characterized by a vivid painterliness in its composition and a bold use of color. Projects ranged from bespoke residences to multi-unit apartment buildings and cultural facilities. His 2020 publication, “Architecture Is a Social Act,” further articulated his philosophy of design as an engagement with the community and urban environment.

Notable Projects and Urban Impact

O’Herlihy’s portfolio includes numerous projects that brought color and distinct form to urban areas. The Big Blue Bus Stops for Santa Monica exemplify his playful approach to public infrastructure. The Formosa1140 apartment building, a 11-unit project with a striking red facade and an integrated pocket park, was noted by developer Richard Loring for its often-described resemblance to a painting. Models and drawings of Formosa1140 are now held by the Heinz Architectural Center in Pittsburgh.

LOHA’s work continued to evolve, with projects like Habitat825 in West Hollywood, a 19-unit apartment building featuring a black, white, and lime green palette. Larger-scale developments followed, including SL11024, which prominently features lime green, and a 190-unit mixed-use development on Sunset and La Cienega designed in collaboration with SOM, notable for its steel-blue and gunpowder-grey checkerboard facades.

Commitment to Affordable and Supportive Housing

Beyond visually striking market-rate developments, O’Herlihy and LOHA demonstrated a significant commitment to affordable and supportive housing. In 2011, the firm refurbished a storage building to serve as offices for the Skid Row Housing Trust. Their MLK1101 Supportive Housing project provided 26 residential units, incorporating a community pavilion and cascading stair. LOHA also developed Isla Intersections, a 54-unit project for Clifford Beers Housing on a challenging site.

Expanding to New Cities

O’Herlihy’s influence extended beyond Los Angeles. He turned his attention to Detroit, working with Dan Gilbert’s Bedrock company on strategies to revitalize the Brush Park neighborhood. LOHA developed the 138-unit Baltimore Station in Milwaukee Junction, featuring a distinctive courtyard and an exterior clad in undulating metal inspired by automotive design. These ventures underscored O’Herlihy’s dedication to addressing the future of American cities and creating more humane, inclusive urban environments.

Legacy and Transition

In March 2026, LOHA announced a significant restructuring, elevating seven colleagues to director, senior associate, and associate roles, a move that ensured the continuation of the firm’s vision. O’Herlihy is survived by his wife, Cornelia Hayes O’Herlihy, and their twin sons, Daire and Darcy. His funeral will be held in Glencar, Ireland. Raymund Ryan, curator-at-large at the Heinz Architectural Center, noted O’Herlihy’s artistic yet pragmatic dedication to the urban potential of each proposal, advocating for more inclusive cities.

Key facts

O’Herlihy’s multifaceted career, bridging artistic expression with a deep commitment to social impact and urban revitalization, leaves a significant legacy. His work serves as an inspiration for architects and urban planners focused on creating vibrant, equitable, and visually compelling environments.

Source: The Architect’s Newspaper, https://www.archpaper.com/2026/06/lorcan-oherlihy-irish-architect-based-in-los-angeles-dies-at-66/