Richard Earl Will was a man of many talents—an accomplished architect, a national championship-winning hockey player, and a dedicated Air Force officer. Born in New York City in 1932, Will’s journey took him from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the Pacific Northwest, where he left a lasting mark on Spokane’s architectural landscape.
Early Life and Education
Following high school in Boston, Will attended Hebron Academy, a prestigious college-preparatory boarding school in Maine. His academic pursuits led him to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in New York, where he earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1956. His time at RPI was marked not only by academic rigor but also by athletic excellence—he was a member of the 1954 NCAA national championship-winning hockey team. Notably, Will graduated two years ahead of Peter Q. Bohlin, who would later receive the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Gold Medal in 2010.
Military Service and Early Career
After completing his education, Will continued to demonstrate leadership beyond architecture. He graduated from the Air Force Squadron Officers School and served as a captain in the United States Air Force from 1958 to 1960. His commitment to service extended beyond active duty, as he later joined the Washington Air National Guard.
Architectural Legacy in Spokane and Beyond
In 1964, Will established his own architectural practice in Spokane, a city that became the canvas for much of his work. His influence extended beyond Washington, as he was also a licensed architect and real estate developer in Idaho and Arizona. His projects included numerous apartment buildings in Spokane, reflecting his keen understanding of functional yet aesthetically compelling design.
Among his notable works are the Backlund residence in Spokane and the Tompkins residence on Mercer Island, both of which exemplify his architectural sensibilities and ability to craft thoughtful, livable spaces. Whether in residential or multi-family housing, Will’s work reflected the evolving needs of mid-century and modern living, seamlessly blending practicality with elegance.
A Lasting Influence
Richard Earl Will’s contributions to architecture, his dedication to service, and his early athletic achievements paint a picture of a man whose impact was both diverse and enduring. His architectural work continues to shape the built environment of Spokane and beyond, a testament to his vision and expertise.
As Spokane’s mid-century architectural heritage gains more recognition, Will’s legacy remains a vital part of the region’s development. His work serves as a reminder of the creative minds that helped define Spokane’s skyline, ensuring that his contributions will be appreciated for generations to come.
References:
Inlander. (2023, January 12). Spokane's legacy of 'modern' architecture is everywhere you look. Retrieved from https://www.inlander.com/culture/spokanes-legacy-of-modern-architecture-is-everywhere-you-look-here-are-seven-examples-that-should-be-protected-and-celebrated-27156363
Legacy.com. (2009, September 27). Mary Backlund Obituary. Retrieved from https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/mary-backlund-obituary?pid=133514668Mid-Century
Spokane. (n.d.). Backlund House. Retrieved from https://midcenturyspokane.org/property/backlund-house/
Mid-Century Spokane. (n.d.). Fred W. and Mary Backlund House. [PDF document]. Retrieved from https://midcenturyspokane.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Edited-Backlund-Fred-W-and-Mary-House.pdf
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