Architect Richard Meier, known for designing the Getty Center in Los Angeles, is taking a six-month leave of absence from his firm after the New York Times reported on March 13 that five women accused him of sexual harassment.

Richard Meier & Partners Architects, the firm Meier founded and still serves as managing partner, has offices in Westwood and New York.

“I am deeply troubled and embarrassed by the accounts of several women who were offended by my words and actions,” Meier said in a statement on the firm’s website. “While our recollections may differ, I sincerely apologize to anyone who was offended by my behavior.”

In Meier’s absence, the firm said Michael Palladino, partner and head of the company’s L.A. office, as well as James Crawford, will oversee all of the firm’s operations and projects. Associate partners in the New York office will handle its day-to-day operations.

“Richard has built a world-class design practice and we will continue the strong collaboration between our two offices, as we continue to build on that legacy,” Palladino said in the statement. “We believe that women should feel comfortable and empowered in all workplaces – including ours.”

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