In Memoriam: Paul Katz

The Forum joins many in the architectural community in mourning the loss of Paul Katz, 57, who passed away suddenly on November 20 from complications to cancer treatment. He was recently elected President of the Board of Directors.

Paul was a visionary architect who designed transformative projects in the hearts of many of the world’s most influential cities. As Managing Principal of Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, he played a crucial role in the firm’s evolution into a leading global architecture practice of 600 employees. He was an extraordinary mentor to many of the firm’s young architects, many of whom have become leaders in the field of urban design today.

Paul joined the Forum + Institute for Urban Design in 2008. We had been working closely with him in his new role as President to engage pioneering young practitioners and thinkers to join our conversation on the critical issues facing cities today. We will miss his warm sense of humor, his penetrating intellect, and his passion for building dense livable cities.

In lieu of flowers, Paul’s family would prefer if those who wish to honor Paul Katz make a donation to the KPF Foundation. All funds will be applied to a Scholarship or Fellowship promoting study in the fields of Architecture and Urbanism, fields that Paul loved dearly. Checks may be sent to: KPF Foundation, 11 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

On behalf of the Board and staff of the Forum + Institute for Urban Design, we express our deepest sympathies to Paul’s family, friends and colleagues.