William Bechhoefer

Professor Bechhoefer focuses on regionalism and multi-culturalism related to design practice. His interests include vernacular building and the effects of contemporary interventions in traditional environments. He was Fulbright-Hays Senior Lecturer in Afghanistan in 1973-74, and he has conducted field research and study programs in Turkey, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and Afghanistan. His "Seminar in Regionalism" was cited in 1990 as a "Noteworthy Submission" in the AIA Education Awards Program, and he was one among several faculty members receiving an AIA Honor Award in 1995 for "Comprehensive Design Studio and Advanced Technology." His writings have been published nationally and internationally, and he has maintained an award-winning residential architectural practice since 1971. In 1993-94, Professor Bechhoefer was designated a Distinguished Scholar-Teacher by the University of Maryland, and in 1996 he was elected to Fellowship in the American Institute of Architects. In 2007 he received the Paul H. Kea Medal for Service, Leadership and Advocacy from the Potomac Valley Chapter, AIA, and in 2008 he was appointed Kea Distinguished Professor in the Architecture Program.