Allison, Richard John 1869 - 1958

(1869 - 1958) architect

Sir Richard John Allison was born on 8th January 1869 to Joseph and Harriet Allison. He would attend Choir School before going on to Lambeth School of Art. In 1889 he joined the Office of Works as a draughtsman. He continued in this role for 12 years until he was appointed Assistance Architect in 1901 and the Architect in 1911. He became the Office’s Principal Architect following the retirement of Sir Henry Tanner in 1914. In 1918 he received the OBE in the Birthday Honours.

In 1920 the Directorate of Works was established within the Office of Works and Sir Richard Allison became its Chief Architect and would remain so until his retirement in 1934. During his time in this position he would be knighted, in June 1927.

During his career, Allison would work on a number of public buildings including the Science Museum’s East Block, the Duveen Wing of the National Portrait Gallery and the Geological Museum.

On 28th September Sir Richard Allison died at his home in Highgate.