Lived: 1934 - 2015
Education: University of Cincinnati 1954-59. Harvard Graduate School of Design 1959. American Academy in Rome 1960-62.
Career: 1962 began a 40 year teaching career at Princeton University, New Jersey, and in 1972 became a professor of architecture. 1964 opened an architecture practice in Princeton and in 1993 a shop where he sold products he had designed. Late 1970s began designing Postmodern furniture and products inspired by the Art Deco style. 1980s designed furniture and object for Memphis and collaborative designs with Alessi. Established Michael Graves and Associates, a diverse international practice in architecture, interior design, product design and graphic design.
Notable Designs: Public services building in Portland, Oregon, 1982. Library in San Juan Capistrano, California,1983. Humana Corporation HQ in Louisville, 1982-6. Dolphin Hotel, Disney World, Florida, 1989. Annex to Whitney Museum of Art, New York, 1989-90. Whistling bird kettle, Alessi,1985.
Significance: In his approach to the design of familiar, everyday objects, Graves enables us to see the object in a different way. His products combine simplicity of design with functional innovation.
