Brian Lauren Paul

Brian Lauren Paul, a renowned San Diego architect, passed away on January 25, 2025 at his home in Del Mar, at the age of 85. Born on August 24, 1939 in New Orleans, he was the second child of parents John Allison Paul and Elise May Chamberlin Paul. His early years were marked by frequent moves, but by sixth grade, his family settled in Calexico, where he lived with his mother and brothers, John and Michael. A gifted athlete, Brian excelled in football, basketball (earning All-Valley honors), and springboard diving — winning first place five years in a row. During this time he also discovered a love for both art and construction, planting the seeds for what would become a lifelong career in architecture. Although he was offered full football scholarships to several colleges and universities, his dream school, USC, was not one of them. He accepted a football scholarship to Pepperdine, due to its proximity to USC, where he played linebacker. After one year he was able to transfer to USC, but was told by the Dean of the School of Architecture that he must choose between football and architecture. He chose architecture.

Graduating at the top of his class, Brian began his career with John Paul Wernicke’s firm in San Francisco before eventually making his way to San Diego. At just 30 years old, he founded Brian Paul & Associates AIA in 1969 with, as he put it, “blind ambition, a lack of experience, and a wide-eyed lack of fear of failure.” His first major project was Lake Park, an apartment project on Lake Murray, which earned multiple design awards, followed by the acclaimed Lake Helix Homes. These early successes, along with many others, solidified his reputation. Before long, he was a key figure in San Diego’s architecture scene, serving as president of the San Diego AIA. But it was also during this period that he came to the realization that the future success of his firm lay in commercial office design.

Brian Paul & Associates became a driving force behind the development of the UTC/Golden Triangle area. He designed its first office building, La Jolla Eastgate, in 1978, and later the award-winning Plaza at La Jolla Village — in addition to innumerable office complexes and corporate headquarters throughout the county. His impact extended downtown, where his firm contributed to San Diego’s skyline with projects like the One Harbor Drive twin towers. As his firm grew, he took on partners and became known as BPA Architecture, Planning and Interiors, one of the most influential firms shaping the growth of San Diego’s built environment. Clients and colleagues admired his ability to tackle complex design challenges with creativity and clarity, turning problems into possibilities. Brian believed that architecture should enhance the human experience. He spoke of creating “some form of positive environmental central focus point that the user could appreciate, adding to their quality of life.” His designs integrated courtyards, water features, and lush landscaping, reflecting a shift toward more inviting and thoughtful office spaces. He often quoted Goethe’s description of architecture as “frozen music,” viewing architecture as “sculpture on a grand scale.” His architectural sculptures are his legacy, and as we stand in their shadow, we can take comfort in knowing that although he is no longer here, his designs will continue to exist as exceptional creations for generations to come.

In retirement, Brian turned his creative energy to watercolor painting, mastering new techniques and filling

his home with vibrant works. Many encouraged him to sell his pieces, but he preferred to remain noncommercial. A lifelong lover of music, particularly jazz, he deeply admired musicians and the artistry behind their craft. He was also an avid golfer, enjoying rounds with friends, family, and clients alike. Travel was another great love, which he and his wife did extensively over the years, and every destination was meticulously researched prior to departure. The ultimate sports fan, he followed his teams faithfully to the very end. Brian always had an intriguing story or fact to share, a wonderful sense of humor, and took pride in being culturally current and always informed. Those who knew Brian will remember his sharp intellect, boundless curiosity, and generous and creative spirit. Brian is survived by his wife of 43 years, Priscilla Gregory Paul, their two children: Greg and Andrea (Ryan), his three children from his former marriage to Conchita Encinas: Elise ( Jim), Marisa (Tommy) and David (Nick), his four grandchildren: Katie (Faith), Ryan, Samantha and Emilie, and his stepsister, Jillian. A celebration of life will be held at Maderas Golf Club, 17750 Old Coach Road, Poway, on Sunday, February 23rd from 1- 4:00pm