U administrators have selected Prescott Muir, a renowned architect who has practiced for the past 33 years in Salt Lake City and southern California, to be the School of Architecture’s new director.
He replaces Patrick Tripeny, an associate architecture professor. Tripeny, who stepped down as director after his tenure expired June 30, will continue teaching in the department.
U administrators, such as Ken Naylor, president of the American Institute of Architects, said in a statement that Muir is more than qualified for the position. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Southern California, a master’s from Columbia University, and a Bachelorsof Fine Arts from the U. His numerous projects within northern Utah include The Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center in Salt Lake, the Ethel Wattis Kimball Visual Arts Center in Ogden, the Bridge Project for Art space in Salt Lake and the Pleasant Valley Library in Ogden.
He has also spent eight years on the Salt Lake City Planning Commission, serves on the Board of Governors of the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, serves as the board chair of the Downtown Alliance and has been elevated to the College of Fellows of the AIA.
Prescott called all these accomplishments a “culmination of a career.”
“Prescott’s strength as a designer coupled with his years of successful practice bring a unique outlook and essential talent to this important position,” said Ken Naylor, President of AIA Utah, in a statement.
With such a noteworthy reputation, Muir said his goals are to “elevate the recognition of the school” and create an “impact on the region” which will bring about an attitude of posterity and good work ethic.