David McArthur Hewitt FAIA

Celebrated Seattle Architect passed away on November 2, 2023. He led the HEWITT architecture firm, where he worked for over 50 years to change Seattle's cityscape for the better.

David was born in Portland (Oregon) on November 21, 1936 and grew up the youngest in a family of five on a small farm outside the city. Already as a child, David was intrigued with the building of balsawood airplanes and won flight competitions for his models. After high school, he attended what later became Portland State University, while working full time to support himself. Upon graduating he joined the Army and was stationed in Germany for 2.5 years. Being there gave him the opportunity to explore Europe and his exposure to different cities would inspire him to pursue architecture as a profession. David was able to recall the very moment he decided to take up architecture as his life calling: lying in his barracks bed contemplating the play of light in the room.

On returning from the Army, David started an architecture degree at the University of Washington. He was immediately recognized as a star student, despite having to work on the side to support himself. Graduating in 1964 as a top student in his class, he was awarded the Excellence in Architecture medal. While in school and continuing until the early 70's, David worked for and became a partner in Bogard Architects in Kent, designing schools, clinics, commercial buildings, and family homes. Deciding that he wanted to practice in Seattle, he formed Hewitt Daly Architects with partner Jim Daly in 1975. The firm became Hewitt Daly Isley, then Hewitt Isley and ultimately HEWITT.

If one had to use a single word to describe David it would be integrity. He was an extremely honest, principled, considerate, and dedicated person in all aspects of his life. In addition to this, people noted his wit and wry sense of humor; his sense of style and notable eyewear; his admiration of beautiful cars with a special fondness for Alphas and Porsches; and his love of great espresso, perfecting his skills on many different machines in search of the perfect pour. As a keen observer of people, places, and buildings, he applied his reflections to design and how it could improve people's lives.

Throughout his career, David was motivated by the love of the craft rather than fame or money. His buildings are a testament to this: functionally designed for the people who live their lives in and with them, and beautifully integrated into the urban fabric without a hint of pretentiousness. David's work can be seen throughout Seattle and the region with projects including the Port Headquarters at Pier 69; The Port of Seattle's Bell Harbor; the Harbor Steps residential high-rises, and numerous multifamily and mixed-use projects throughout the city. David deeply believed in the importance of the transportation system to the region and designed multiple Sound Transit Light Rail stations and bus facilities for Metro and Sound Transit. He was also a strong supporter of both the visual and performing arts and worked closely with artists on many of his public projects, including those for Sound Transit and the Port of Seattle. He led the renovation of Meany Hall at the University of Washington and subscribed to the dance series at the Meany Center which became a favorite.

He was president of the Seattle Chapter AIA, served as Chair of the Seattle Design Commission, was a member of the "Gang of Five", Allied Arts of Seattle, Seattle Architectural Foundation and a board member for Act Theater (whose first theater he designed while still a student). He was also invited as a frequent critic for University of Washington Architecture students. His commitment to community service and creating projects that contributed to the city and region are just some of the reasons for which he was awarded the AIA Seattle Medal in 2005 for "outstanding lifetime achievement and manifestation of our highest ideals as architects". The Honors Committee for the AIA offered this as part of their statement: "David Hewitt has pioneered and exemplified the role of the architect in civic life (...) His achievement has transcended the practice of architecture, as he has invested his heart and soul into urban design as a way of making change, exemplifying the highest ideals for civic leadership and guidance".

Not only did David leave an indelible mark on Seattle, but also on the hearts of those who knew him. His profound love for his wife, Marcia, was the cornerstone of his private life. Together they built a beautiful house on Bainbridge Island and a tapestry of cherished memories, with frequent visits to the serene shores of Cannon Beach and the enchanting capitals of Europe, such as London and Paris. In the kitchen David showcased his culinary skills, often treating his family, including his two stepsons Brady and Chad, to delicious meals. David is survived by his wife, Marcia Wagoner; stepsons Brady (Lisa Herbig) and Chad (Jen Vogler); grandson Leon; sister Bonnie Carr and nephews Michael and Dennis and their extended families.

Memorials may be given to the Swedish Cancer Institute or the Meany Center for the Performing Arts.