Arthur W. Dekker, born in Roswell, NM in 1922, was a prominent architect in Albuquerque, NM, known for his pioneering work in modern architecture throughout the region. He earned a B.A. degree in Architectural Engineering in 1948 from the University of Kansas and spent 50 years designing over a thousand buildings, shaping the city's postwar architectural landscape. Mr. Dekker passed away in 2007 at the age of 84.

THE ARCHITECT

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • Dekker established his own firm in 1959, Art Dekker Architects, after leaving Brittelle, Ginner and Associates.

  • His firm evolved into Dekker/Perich/Sabatini, one of the largest architecture and design firms in Albuquerque today.

  • Early work focused on renovations, churches, and residences, thriving during Albuquerque's postwar boom fueled by defense spending and urban development.

  • Mr. Dekker is credited with designing well over 1,000 building and structures, primarily in New Mexico.

ARCHITECTURAL STYLE AND LEGACY

  • Dekker was an advocate for modernism, rejecting regional styles like Mission or Pueblo Revival in favor of minimalist, rectangular designs.

  • His own residence, the Dekker House (1965), stands as a testament to his modernist values and architectural abilities.

  • The house was notable for its unadorned aesthetic, family-focused layout, and subtle references to international modernist movements.

  • Dekker's work significantly reflects Albuquerque’s rapid growth and cultural shifts during the mid-20th century.

IMPACT ON ALBUQUERQUE & THE FIELD OF ARCHITECTURE

  • Dekker's contributions extended beyond mere buildings, influencing the city’s developmental trajectory, modern identity and creating a strong foundation for the field of architecture in the Southwest.

  • Under the eventual leadership of Art Dekker's son, Dale, the original Dekker firm went on to become Dekker Perich Sabatini, and then in 2024 it became a 100% employee-owned firm simply called Dekker.

  • Today's Dekker firm describes itself as "a collective of creatives, entrepreneurs, change agents, thinkers, dreamers, innovator, and technical experts" and its offices span New Mexico, Arizona and Texas.