The de Young Museum, a three story building topped by a spiraling 144 foot observation tower, is the largest copper clad building in the world. The façade is composed of over 7,000 copper panels which were embossed to give the impression of light filtering through leaves.

The new museum was designed to replace the previous facility, which suffered severe damage during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, so seismic issues were part of the focus of the design. Accessibility was another key focus, with the interior laid out with visitors of all ages and abilities in mind. A parking garage was built below the museum to offer a direct connection to the building, and the design makes use of natural light and open flow. Program areas include exhibit halls, an auditorium, retail space, outdoor exhibit space, and a restaurant pavilion, all with museum quality environmental and security systems.