Hilyard Robinson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hilyard Robinson
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Hilyard R. Robinson working on plans and specifications for one of two new war-housing projects at Ypsilanti, Michigan
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| Born | 1899 |
| Died | 29 June 1986 (aged 86–87) |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | University of Pennsylvania University of the Arts Columbia Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation |
| Scientific career | |
| Institutions | Harvard University |
Hilyard Robinson (born in 1899, died in 1986) was a very important African-American architect and engineer. He designed many buildings, including homes and university structures. His work helped shape modern architecture in the United States.
Early Life and Education
Hilyard Robinson was born in Washington, D.C.. His mother was a seamstress, and his grandfather ran a shoe-shining business. Hilyard went to M Street High School. After high school, he studied at the Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Arts.
During World War I, Robinson served in the U.S. Army. He was an artillery officer. While in Paris after the war, he saw many different building styles. This experience likely inspired his future career. When he returned home, he continued his studies. He attended the University of Pennsylvania. Later, he graduated from Columbia University in 1924. He earned a degree in architecture there.
Career and Influences
After finishing his studies, Robinson worked for several architecture companies. He also began teaching at Howard University. In 1931, he married Helena Rooks. He also earned a master's degree from Columbia. The Robinsons then traveled to Europe. In Germany, Hilyard was greatly influenced by the Bauhaus style. This style focuses on simple, clean designs. He also visited Scandinavia and France.
Robinson taught architecture at Howard University for many years. He taught from the 1920s all the way to the 1960s. He also designed many buildings on the Howard University campus. The U.S. Department of the Interior asked Robinson to design the Langston Terrace Dwellings. This project made him very well-known. He also worked as an architectural advisor for the government of Liberia. Robinson worked with other famous American architects. These included Ralph A. Vaughn and Paul Williams.
Key Architectural Projects
Hilyard Robinson designed many important buildings and housing projects. His work often focused on creating modern and functional spaces. He aimed to improve living conditions through his designs.
Some of his most notable works include:
- Aberdeen Gardens (Hampton, Virginia) (1934) – A community designed for African-American families.
- Langston Terrace Dwellings (1935-1938) – A large public housing project in Washington, D.C.
- Parkland Homes at Willow Run Bomber Plant (1943) – Housing built for workers during World War II.
- Ralph Bunche House (Washington, D.C.) (1941) – A historic home.
- Sharpe Field Airport (1941) – An airport design.
- Arthur Capper/Carrollsburg (1958) – Another significant housing development.
- Many buildings at Howard University, such as Cramton Hall and the Ira Aldridge Theater.
Hilyard Robinson passed away in 1986. He died at the Howard University Medical Center. His legacy lives on through his many important architectural contributions.
