Bing Thom Architect AIBC, an architect of international influence, died suddenly of a brain aneurysm today. He was in Hong Kong working on the Xiqu Theatre at the time, which spouse Bonnie Thom called a “homecoming project” in a statement posted on the bingthomarchitects.com website.
“Bing Thom’s vision encouraged us all to consider how buildings affect the world beyond their walls. Thom was an ambassador for this vision, as well as a true gentleman and generous mentor. He will be deeply missed by the architectural community, especially in British Columbia, which is home to so many of Thom’s award-winning works,” says AIBC President Darryl Condon Architect AIBC.
Bing Thom received a BA of Architecture in 1966 from the University of British Columbia and an MA of Architecture in 1970 from the University of California, Berkeley. Thom went to work for Japanese architect-urbanist Fumihiko Maki in 1971, returning to Canada in 1972 when he joined Arthur Erickson Architects and oversaw a number of high-profile projects in Canada and abroad.
In 1982, Bing Thom established his own firm, Vancouver-based Bing Thom Architects with offices in Vancouver, Hong Kong, and Washington, DC. Originating from a dozen different countries, the thriving firm of 50 designs award-winning projects throughout the world.
A professional committed to excellence, Thom earned many honours. These include the Order of Canada, the Golden Jubilee Medal, honorary degrees from Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia and the RAIC Gold Medal, the highest honour given to a Canadian architect.
Thom’s projects also received significant recognition from the Architectural Institute of British Columbia (AIBC)—the provincial body tasked with self-regulation of architecture in the public interest. AIBC Architectural Awards showcase the best in architecture from the community by honouring excellence in architecture. Thom’s work earned him and his collaborators five AIBC Architectural Awards since 2011 for projects such as the Guildford Aquatic Centre, Surrey City Centre Library, the SAIT Parkade and the Tarrant County College – Trinity River East Campus.
Thom’s commitment to the profession of architecture found expression in his service to the public, outspokenness and practice of uplifting others through his work. In 2008, Thom was named a Life Member of the AIBC to recognize his 30 years of membership.
In the days ahead, the AIBC will consider how best to pay lasting tribute to Bing Thom, whose vision will continue to inspire individuals, institutions and communities to do great things.
Bing Thom photo by Thomas Billingsley.