Vale Richard Longley

Last week ended with the sad news that Richard Longley had died. Ric was a true gentleman, a loving partner and a proud parent. He was also a very fine architect and worked with us in the days of CODA on several projects. For several years Richard was an ‘in-house consultant’ on matters regarding urban design along with remote Aboriginal community work, with extensive experience in both fields. He was thoughtful, meticulous, always generous with knowledge, and curious to know and learn more.

He worked offshore as well, building strong connections in Asia. He was a welcome sight striding into the CODA office, and ducking to get into our boardroom with a sheaf of drawings drawn up in his studio on Russell Street up some impossibly narrow stairs…and he inspired us with the history of the Fremantle Architects Party and assisted with getting names, dates and event highlights when we fabricated the treasured spirit level with the names of practices that had hosted the party since its inception.

He leaves Fremantle a richer, more vibrant place, and an outstanding legacy through his children and grandchildren. His modelling of what a free-range family could be in the urban context of the West End certainly changed our perceptions of suburban Perth. We miss him dearly and send our deepest condolences, love and sympathy to Kat and his wonderful sons.