Architect Gene Hopkins, FAIA, has found his true passion: inspiring Michigan residents to appreciate the state’s rich architectural heritage and the vital role of historic preservation. “By preserving the past, we unlock valuable lessons that shape the future of our communities,” Gene states. “It’s one of the most powerful aspects of architecture.” His involvement with the Michigan Architectural Foundation (MAF) allows him to champion this vision and make a lasting impact.
As a long-time board member and an active committee participant of MAF since 1989, Gene has made significant contributions. Although his term on the board concluded at the end of 2023 due to term limits, Gene continues to be deeply involved with MAF, currently serving on the Historic Preservation and Scholarship committees, as well as the Evans Graham Preservation Award Jury.
“I joined the AIA Michigan board, and at the time, MAF was a fledgling sister organization,” said Gene. “I was assigned to help MAF grow its architecture student scholarship program and develop methods of increasing the public awareness of architecture.”
Due to time constraints, Gene stepped back from MAF after becoming AIA Michigan president in 1994. He later joined The AlA National board and was elected AlA National president in 2004. After his tenure as AIA National president concluded, Gene eagerly rejoined the MAF board. “By that time, MAF was really getting its legs under it, and I was excited to get engaged again,” he said. Gene went on to serve as MAF president in 2014 and 2015, contributing to the organization’s growth and success.
“Few architectural foundations in the U.S. have had the impact that MAF has,” said Gene. “MAF has stayed focused, diligent, and fiscally responsible, which has enabled the growth of its endowment and programs. Furthermore, MAF’s efforts are not in a single basket. From grants that support architecture-based initiatives for students and fans of all ages, to historic preservation grants, architecture student scholarships, and free, STEAM-based educational initiatives for young children, MAF has something for everyone.”
Gene credits much of his career to the pivotal guidance he received during his early education. He found his path to the architecture profession when he took an architectural drafting course in high school. He enjoyed the class, and his teacher suggested he enroll at Ferris State College to become an architectural draftsperson.
“The program provided the chance of a lifetime,” he continues. “I had excellent professors, including architects Jim Shane and George Wallace. Professor Wallace suggested that I next attend the University of Michigan to study architecture, and even wrote letters to the trustees to support my application and acceptance.”
“Growing up on a farm in West Michigan, I didn’t understand what architects did or what it meant to be an architect” he adds.”l’m not sure what I would be doing today if it wasn’t for the people I was associated with that led me to the architecture school path. They recognized my potential and provided the direction and the support I needed. I was certainly in the right place at the right time.”
Post graduation, Gene got a job with architect Dick Frank, FAIA, often called the ‘godfather’ of historic preservation.
“He was my mentor and helped foster my love for historic preservation,” Gene says of Dick Frank. “The experience gained working in his office was invaluable, as was the friendship we developed. Later in his career, we brought Dick in to work with us as an advisor and to share his expertise with others.”
Gene continues, “Dick said being an architect also meant providing service to the professional, and encouraged my AlA Michigan and MAF involvement. He emphasized that engagement would expand my network and skill set and help keep the bar high for me as a practitioner. I also joined the AIA National Historic Resources committee, which provided incredible insight on how to run a historic preservation firm. I am also involved in my local zoning board, where l’m able to help shape good design and planning in my community.”
In 1983, Gene helped co-found the architecture firm Architects Four, and in 1999, the firm merged with SmithGroup, bringing its historic preservation expertise. In 2007, Gene decided to again practice on his own, joined by SmithGroup colleague Tamara Burns, FAIA.
“We started HopkinsBurns Design Studio in basement of my home, eventually moving to a commercial space in downtown Ann Arbor – one block from the former Architects Four office.” Gene says. “Our firm focuses primarily on ‘existing architecture’ renovations and restorations of buildings that are over 50 years old, as well as new additions to existing structures. We have had the privilege of working on many buildings listed on the Historic Register, including National Historic Landmarks, and have built a national reputation for our expertise in historic preservation, which is a source of great pride for us.”
He adds, “It has been very rewarding to do what I’m passionate about, and we’re fortunate to work with great staff and clients. I’m even getting the opportunity to work on some of the buildings I worked on 40 years ago!”
When he’s not shaping the future of architecture or actively contributing to MAF committees, Gene enjoys helping out at his daughter Brie’s farm (she and her husband Scott live next door with their two daughters) and spending time with his granddaughters and his wife, Jane.
Gene takes great pride in seeing how, through the dedication and hard work of its supporters, audiences, board, and volunteers, the Michigan Architectural Foundation has become a strong voice, and advocacy and awareness platform for Michigan architecture.
“MAF has done a great job illustrating the power and impact of architecture on our lives and communities, its cultural significance, and the value of architects as stewards for environmentally and socially responsible design,” he said.
To those considering getting involved with MAF, Gene offers his encouragement: “Say yes, and see where it takes you. I’m extremely grateful I did.” His journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion and commitment, and he continues to inspire others to join in shaping a future that honors both our heritage and our potential.
photos: Gene, and Gene and his wife, Jane, in Aruba earlier this year.