Hugh Smallen

Background

He decided to pursue a major in architecture at Yale University against his father’s will.

Education

And in 1949 he attended the Institute of Design in Brooklyn.

Career

His education was interrupted when he was needed in World World War II where he served as an aerial photographer. Smallen received his degree in architecture from Yale University in 1948. He then began his architectural career in the New York office of the renowned firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill.

In 1950 the New York native felt his time there had expired.

His interior design work included many projects for International Business Machines Corporation. In 1952 the design of his shop was displayed in the “De Stijl” exhibit in the Museum of Modern Artist Smallen believed in a utilitarian way of living and these beliefs are reflected in his designs.

Smallen continued his work in architecture and interior design up until his death on June 11, 1990 at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Florida.

Achievements

• Smallen’s designs are often characterized by their wide range of building materials including the use of wood, brick, cement, steel and stone which helped achieve a simplified way of living.