Stephen Friedlaender Fun - resized for web
Stephen Friedlaender

FAIA

Principal Emeritus

Stephen Friedlaender, FAIA (1935-2022) is remembered for his distinguished six-decade career in architecture and appreciated for his human kindness, sharp intellect, and boundless generosity. In 1969, he founded HMFH Architects and helped build the firm’s reputation as a leader in educational design. Through early integration of educational planning and space programming, he translated complex client needs into award-winning school designs, understanding that architectural excellence requires a robust dialogue between architects, owners, and users. Steve valued deep discussions not only about design but on any number of topics from baseball to Bach. His love of music and architecture was never far apart: he served on boards for both the Boston Architectural College and New England Conservatory and actively participated in charitable and civic realms. Steve’s voracious curiosity, high ethical standards, professionalism, and empathy were the foundation for HMFH’s practice.

Good leadership and good design both take patience, understanding, and the willingness to evolve.