Bio
Bob McGilvray studied architecture, landscape planning and urban design at the Rhode Island School of Design and the University of Pennsylvania. Before moving to Vancouver in 1976, Bob worked for multidisciplinary design and planning firms in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont.
From 1976 to 1993, Bob worked in local firms (McCarter Nairne, Downs Archambault, Rhone & Iredale, Arthur Erickson Architects) on a variety of project types including the design of private residences, urban development, site planning, and institutional buildings. During this period he also taught at the University of British Columbia (School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture Program) as a Sessional Lecturer and Adjunct Professor.
From 1993 to 2000, Bob was on staff at The Vancouver City Planning Department as a Planner/Urban Designer. His responsibilities included managing public consultation processes, drafting planning policies, guidelines and zoning documents, and acting as a Development Planner/Facilitator reviewing development proposals. He was also a member of the Urban Design Caucus providing advice on proposed major projects. During this period Bob also completed independent designs for homes and commercial buildings on Bowen Island.
In 2000, Bob established R. D. McGilvray Design-Architecture-Planning providing a range of consulting services to varied clients including individuals & families, community groups, municipal planning bodies, real estate investors, and others. In 2013, Bob reorganized his practice now known as Bob McGilvray Design. This practice focuses on smaller projects (homes, cabins, guest houses, etc.) primarily on Bowen Island.
Prior to being on City staff, Bob was appointed twice to the Vancouver Urban Design Advisory Panel and has been elected to the boards of both the Architectural Institute of British Columbia (member from 1976 - 2012) and the British Columbia Society of Landscape Architects (member from 1979-2005). In recent years, Bob has served on the Bowen (Island) Community Housing Association, the Bowen Island Suites Advisory Panel, and the Steering Committee for the Up Date of the Bowen Island Official Community Plan.
Bob lives on Bowen Island and in Vancouver. He draws with a pencil, maintains an objective skepticism regarding his own profession and has a healthy sense of humour.