Seattle architect Richard Bouillon had a short-lived career as a Modernist designer when he died unexpectedly at the age of 45 in 1973. Born September 27, 1927 in Seattle, Bouillon was the son of a well-known mechanical engineer, Lincoln Bouillon. Richard graduated from the University of Washington in 1952 with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and received his architectural license shortly thereafter, on August 20, 1954.

In 1959, Bouillon formed his own sole practice -,Richard Bouillon & Associates. During this early phase in his career he focused on remodels and retail projects, such as the addition to the University of Washington’s 1909 Engineering Annex (1961). But he did receive a commission for a project at the Seattle World’s Fair, the Plaza of Flags (1962).

For a brief period Bouillon also had a partnership with fellow architect Joseph Williams in 1963-1964. One of Bouillon & William’s most notable projects is the cylindrical-shaped Crescent Apartments in Seattle’s Rainier Valley, which was recognized with an award in 1963 from Practical Builder magazine. Other work under the partnership included Lincoln First Savings and Loan in Kent (1963); a unique, u-shape, single-story office complex for the Rudy Simone Construction Company in Seattle’s Rainier Valley (1967) where Bullion leased an office; the Park Villa Apartments in Seattle (1964), and a B.F. Goodrich Co. Store (1964).

While Bouillon focused on commercial work, he completed a number of banks, auto showrooms and service facilities, office and retail buildings, warehouses, and shopping centers. In 1968 he took on another partner, Harry Rich, but Rich left in 1972 to start his own firm. Later work includes Washington Mutual Savings Bank in Seattle (1968); a fountain and alterations to the University Chevrolet dealership at Northeast 45th Street and Roosevelt Streets (1969, demolished, Seattle AIA citation); Evergreen Inn (1971) in Olympia; and the Totem Lake Mall in Kirkland (1973).

After Bouillon’s death in 1973, his company continued to operate until 1978, eventually evolving into another Seattle firm, Lance Mueller & Associates.

– Michael C Houser