In Memoriam: Gerald D. Hines (1925–2020)

AIANY is saddened by the loss of Gerald D. Hines, the Houston-based developer and namesake donor of the Center for Architecture’s Hines Gallery.

Hines, referred to in a New York Times obituary as an “architects’ Medici,” was the founder and chairman of Hines Corporation.

At the time of his death, Hines Corporation had built 907 buildings around the world, having grown from a one-man business to an operation with more than 4,800 employees across 25 countries.

Hines was an advocate for design excellence, and worked with celebrated architects including I.M. Pei, Harry Cobb, Philip Johnson and John Burgee, Cesar Pelli, Kevin Roche, Jean Nouvel, Frank Gehry, Robert A.M. Stern, and, Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates.

Below, we’ve gathered several tributes from members of our community.

From Benjamin Prosky, Assoc. AIA, Executive Director, AIANY | Center for Architecture

On behalf of AIANY and the Center for Architecture, we are saddened to hear of the passing of Gerald Hines, one of our most influential developers and philanthropists. Hines worked with many of NYC’s talented architects and was dedicated to supporting our community. We are grateful for the Hines Gallery at the Center for Architecture, established in 2003 through a generous gift by the Hines Corporation, and for their years of support, which have greatly contributed to the cultural vibrancy of our community.

From Roger Platt, Senior Vice President, Green Business Certification Inc.; Board Trustee, Center for Architecture

The role of Gerald D. Hines in spearheading the green building phenomena globally remains largely under-reported. He uniquely shaped today’s cutting edge standards for the highest performing buildings in the world—and inspired others to follow his lead. He also ensured that the buildings his company owns or manages met—and exceeded—those standards throughout their useful life.

See Platt’s full tribute and a USGBC video honoring Hines here