Richard Meier & Partners Architects announced that Pritzker Prize-winning architect Richard Meier is permanently stepping down from his firm, after accusations of sexual harassment made by five women, which was reported in a detailed story by The New York Times on March 13, 2018. 

According to the firm's press statement, Bernhard Karpf will serve as the Managing Principal of the New York office of the world-renown architecture firm. "Mr. Karpf will manage the firm, spearhead new business development and position the company for future growth and success," read the statement. 

Published with a title "Leadership Changes", the firm also announced that Vivian Lee, Reynolds Logan and Dukho Yeon will serve as the new Principals. They will be responsible for new business, and design and project execution.

With these restructuring positions, the studio added "Founder Richard Meier will step back from day-to-day activities and support the leadership transition of the firm he founded in 1963." 

"He will remain available to colleagues and clients who seek his vast experience and counsel. The firm will maintain and develop the rigorous design philosophy that Richard pioneered," they added.

Richard Meier & Partners Architects office. Image courtesy of Richard Meier & Partners Architects

Richard Meier took a six-month leave of absence from his company Richard Meier & Partners Architects on March 18, 2018, following the detailed allegations of five women, reported in the New York Times. Cornell AAP and Sotheby’s also severed ties with Richard Meier after sexual harassment claims. 

Regarding these accusations, the 83-year-old architect said that "I am deeply troubled and embarrassed by the accounts of several women who were offended by my words and actions,” Meier said. “While our recollections may differ, I sincerely apologize to anyone who was offended by my behaviour."

In addition, the firm's West Coast activities will be led by Michael Palladino, who has worked as a partner and principal designer at Richard Meier & Partners for more than three decades, and Jim Crawford, who worked in the United States and abroad. 

Crawford commented: "I appreciate and support Richard Meier’s decision to undertake this transition. Bernhard Karpf is a talented architect with 30 years of experience and is committed to the design and execution philosophy and vision of the firm. I have every confidence that with the support of the team in the New York office, this leadership transition will be seamless and successful."

Richard Meier & Partners Architects office. Image © Brett Beyer

Mr. Karpf joined Richard Meier & Partners in 1988 and has served as a design leader in the New York office since 2001. Recently completed under his design direction are the Leblon Offices in Rio de Janeiro, the Surf Club Residences at Surfside, Florida, and the Torre Cuarzo on Reforma in Mexico City. 

He currently leads the design efforts for the new Engel & Völkers headquarters in Hamburg, Germany, and for new residential projects in Stuttgart, Germany, and Jesolo Lido, Italy. As member of the American Institute of Architects, he was elevated to the College of Fellows of the AIA in 2018.

Michael Palladino and James R. Crawford. Image courtesy of Richard Meier & Partners Architects

"It is an honor to lead this talented team as we build upon the body of work we have created over a half-century. Richard’s vision has produced a unique architectural design language that is instantly recognizable and internationally celebrated. I am committed to support both the New York and Los Angeles offices as we continue to evolve and grow," said Mr. Karpf.

Top image courtesy of PLANE-SITE

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