Arthur Erickson

Date of Birth: June 14, 1924

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: May 20, 2009

Biography

Arthur Charles Erickson was a renowned Canadian architect and urban planner known for his innovative designs and integration of natural landscapes with modern architecture. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Erickson grew up with a deep appreciation for both the natural and built environments, which would later become a hallmark of his architectural style. He studied at the University of British Columbia and later at McGill University in Montreal, where he earned his degree in architecture. Erickson’s career took off in the 1960s, and he quickly gained international acclaim for projects such as the Simon Fraser University campus in Burnaby, British Columbia, and the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia. Throughout his career, Erickson was known for his commitment to creating spaces that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing, often incorporating elements of the surrounding landscape into his designs. His work earned him numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Gold Medal and the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal. Erickson also taught architecture at several institutions, including the University of British Columbia and the University of California, Los Angeles, influencing a new generation of architects with his visionary approach.

5 Interesting Facts about Arthur Erickson

1. Arthur Erickson served in the Canadian Army Intelligence Corps during World War II before pursuing his career in architecture.

2. He was the first Canadian architect to receive the AIA Gold Medal, the highest honor given by the American Institute of Architects.

3. Erickson’s design for the Canadian Pavilion at Expo 67 in Montreal earned him international recognition.

4. He was known for his close collaboration with landscape architect Cornelia Oberlander, with whom he worked on several major projects.

5. Erickson was a passionate advocate for sustainable architecture long before it became a mainstream concern, often incorporating green roofs and natural ventilation into his designs.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Arthur Erickson

1. “Architecture doesn’t come from theory. You don’t think your way through a building. You feel your way.”

2. “The essence of architecture is not the building but the space it creates.”

3. “Space has always been the spiritual dimension of architecture. It is not the physical statement of the structure so much as what it contains that moves us.”

4. “The future of architecture is culture. It’s about creating spaces that foster a sense of community and belonging.”

5. “Buildings should serve people, not the other way around.”