Olle Lundberg Passed Away: The San Francisco Architect Responsible for the City’s Famous “Wavy” Bus Shelters Has Died Unexpectedly

 The design community and residents of San Francisco are grieving the unexpected loss of Olle Lundberg, an innovative architect whose contributions significantly influenced the visual character of the Bay Area.

Lundberg, renowned for creating the city’s unique “wavy” Muni bus stop shelters, died suddenly on October 31 at the age of 71, as reported in a touching statement from his company, Lundberg Design.

In 1987, Olle Lundberg founded Lundberg Design and quickly became a prominent member of the Bay Area’s architecture and design scene. His approach focused on craftsmanship and materials, allowing him to infuse artistry and creativity into every endeavor he undertook.

In 1996, he moved his thriving firm to the Dogpatch neighborhood in San Francisco, converting an old mattress manufacturing site into a dual-purpose architecture office and makerspace. The studio on Third Street itself evolved into an architectural icon, merging creativity, innovative design, and meticulous craftsmanship under one roof.

The impact of Lundberg's work is evident throughout San Francisco and further afield. In addition to his famous Muni bus shelters, he also designed notable establishments such as Flour + Water, Mourad, The Slanted Door, and the interiors of the previous Twitter offices. His work also includes a variety of high-end homes that reflect his profound respect for natural materials, structure, and design.

In a tribute released by Lundberg Design, friends and colleagues characterized him as “larger than life,” highlighting his exceptional ability to convey the value of design in both grand and personal situations.

“He possessed a distinctive perspective on architecture and the skill to articulate significant concepts regarding the relevance of design in any context,” the firm’s statement conveyed. “His legacy of craftsmanship and material-focused architectural design has made an enduring mark on the field of architecture, which will be upheld by his firm.”

Olle Lundberg was recognized as a self-taught innovator, motivated by what his team described as a “relentless obsession with fabrication and craft.” His creative spirit and hands-on technique motivated many designers and builders who looked up to his bravery in challenging creative limits.

In his well-regarded publication, An Architecture of Craft, released by Princeton Architectural Press and Chronicle Books, Lundberg elaborated on his design beliefs and lifelong dedication to craftsmanship. At the time of his passing, he was in the process of organizing a series of book discussions and events that would be revealed in his honor.

“To those who had the pleasure of knowing him, Olle was a powerful presence,” his firm’s tribute states. “He was perpetually curious, imaginative, kind-hearted, passionate, and an outstanding friend. His impact extends well beyond the confines of our studio, and his essence will continue to influence our work each day.”

In place of flowers, the Lundberg family and design firm suggest making contributions to the Redwood Coast Humane Society, a cause that was dear to his heart. The loss of Olle Lundberg signifies the passing of a genuine visionary — an architect whose innovation, craftsmanship, and compassion forever transformed the architectural landscape of San Francisco.