Robert George Hill

Robert studied architecture at Toronto Metropolitan University (then Ryerson) and the University of Toronto. After a period in New York with Paul Rudolph, he worked with Diamond and Myers and George Baird in Toronto. From the founding of KPMB Architects in 1987, Robert played a singular role as collaborator, librarian, historian, and archivist. His rigorous research and command of architectural provenance helped shape many of KPMB’s award-winning projects across Canada.

Robert loved architecture, history, photography, and art in equal measure. In his spare time, he travelled the country working on his passion project, The Biographical Dictionary of Canadian Architects 1800-1950 (BDAC), an important online resource for students, the profession, and the public. This work earned him a Fellowship in the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, the Order of da Vinci award from the Ontario Order of Architects, and the Eric Arthur Lifetime Achievement Award from the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario. He was especially proud of his award-winning house and studio, designed for him by Shim-Sutcliffe and granted heritage status by the City of Toronto in 2022.

Left to mourn are his sister, Barbara Abercrombie of Victoria, and a host of devoted colleagues, neighbours, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, you may honour Robert by donating to institutions close to his heart: Daniels at UofT, DAS at TMU, or the Canadian Centre for Architecture.

Plans for a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.