Burr Richards

Richards, Burr

(1917 – 1996)

Born on December 20, 1917 in Spokane, Burr Richards grew up in the city, and received his formal architectural training at the University of Washington, graduating in 1940. Upon graduation he enlisted the the Naval Reserves in 1941, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After being discharged in 1946, Richards took a job working as a draftsman for Spokane architect G.A. Pehrson, but shortly thereafter moved to Seattle and began working for the firm of Young & Richardson (1946-1947).

Further experience was gained by working for the architectural firm of Bain, Overturf & Turner (1948-1950), and then Robert Durham & Assoc. (1950-52).

With experience at hand, in 1952 Richards formed a partnership with Bernard A. Carmin (1952-1957). Notable projects during the partnership include the Roy Miller House on Mercer Island (1956) the Bart Stevens House in Bellevue (1954); and the R.M. MacRae House in Bellevue (1958).

For reasons unknown, Richards and Carmin parted was in 1957. Richards decided to open his own firm, and Carmin eventually joined architectural firm of Ralf E. Decker.

On his own, Richards continued refining his residential designs and soon became independently known for his high-end, custom homes. Notable projects include the Campbell/Foss House (1960) in Medina; the Henry Isaacson Sr. House in the Highlands (1970); a remodel of the Roy Taylor House on Bainbridge Island (1963); and the Lindley House (1970) on Hunts Point.

Many of his designs were featured in Sunset Idea books of the 1950s through 1970s. In fact, the MacRae House and his own home (1958) were featured multiple times in Sunset Magazine.

Later projects include an addition for the IBM Building in Seattle (1959); the Ravena House Apartments (1967) in Seattle; and the 101 Meydenbauer Condominiums (1975) in Bellevue.

Richards was active in the local chapter of the AIA and served as chapter secretary in 1965. He passed away in Bellevue on July 12, 1996.

– Michael C Houser

 

E-Mail List

Subscribe to our e-mail list (through Constant Contact) to receive news and updates from Docomomo US/WEWA.

Grant Support

4Culture's Preservation Sustained Support grant partially funds our programs and advocacy work.

Contact

P.O. Box 70245
Seattle, WA 98127

Site Search

Social Media

Follow Docomomo US/WEWA