Mahlum Architects is deeply saddened at the loss of John Mahlum FAIA who passed away on March 20, 2025, at the age of 85.
John Mahlum was the son of our original founder, Edward K. Mahlum, a respected Seattle architect who established his practice in 1948. John studied architecture at the University of Washington, earned a master’s degree from Columbia University, and served two years in the Army before returning to Seattle. In 1966, John joined his father’s firm, which later became Mahlum & Mahlum Architects, then Mahlum & Nordfors, and eventually Mahlum Architects, now with offices in Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon.
Throughout his career, John played a key role in shaping Mahlum Architects’ renowned portfolio of institutional facility designs, including projects for major educational and healthcare organizations across the Puget Sound region. He also helped establish the firm’s culture, which continues to thrive today.
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John served as President of AIA Seattle in 1979 and became a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 1983 the AIA’s highest membership honor, recognizing architects for their exceptional contributions to the profession and society. He also served as a trustee of the Seattle Architectural Foundation, on the University of Washington Department of Architecture Professionals Advisory Council, and as a trustee of the Nordic Heritage Museum.
John was known for his sharp intellect and unwavering integrity. We are grateful for his enduring contributions to Mahlum Architects, from the name our firm still carries decades after his 1999 retirement to the values and purpose he helped establish principles that continue to guide our work today.
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“It was a sad day to learn of John’s passing. He was not only my partner and colleague but a true, close friend. The Mahlums, including John’s parents Ed and Annette, welcomed our family into theirs which in turn began a long personal and professional relationship that we will always treasure and be thankful for.
John had a special personality. He was kind, thoughtful, smart, talented, humble, and to many he was a mentor. People who met him for the first time were always influenced by his grace and friendly manner. John believed that architecture is an honorable profession and that good design helps society in a positive way. Competitors and colleagues alike respected his wisdom and dedicated view of the profession. I know he would want me to say he molded himself after his love of the Norwegian lifestyle and Norwegian life perspective — a culture that is historically hard working, honest, empathetic, and happy. Each day I worked with John he was an example of those same qualities. John’s passing truly marks the end of a Pacific Northwest architectural era. Although Ed Mahlum and John Mahlum are both gone, I am thankful the firm carries on in both of their names. Thanks to all who have worked so hard to keep Mahlum Architects active and prosperous. I know all the Mahlums — myself included — are very grateful.” Sincerely,
Vince and Diane Nordfors