We recently learned of the passing of Horace Gilford, an influential and pioneering Black architect based in Oakland, California.
We're sad to lose him, not only for his pioneering architectural work and his habit of mentoring younger folks in the industry, but also for his deep commitment to his community of architects. Gilford co-founded Bay Area Black Architects in the mid-70s and continued to do community building work throughout his life.
According to the Contra Costa Times, Gilford died January 4 of complications from multiple sclerosis at age 68. During his career Gilford did work in various capacities for the Oakland Unified School District, Kaiser Permanente, and Taubman Company, and designed the Beverly Center in Los Angeles. He was appointed assistant city architect for Oakland in 1991.
Farewell.
