The architectural and engineering communities are mourning the loss of Erik Verboon, a widely respected leader and visionary in the field of facade and enclosure engineering, who passed away on September 21 at the age of 46.

Verboon, a senior principal and national director of enclosure engineering at Walter P Moore, was instrumental in shaping the built environment through his innovative work on some of the most complex and high-profile facade projects around the world.

At Walter P Moore, Verboon not only spearheaded the firm’s New York City office—which he co-founded—but also led its enclosure engineering practice, overseeing landmark projects including multiple stadiums and large-scale commercial developments.

His technical expertise, combined with an artistic eye and visionary leadership, earned him a reputation as one of the most influential figures in his field. Born in New Jersey in 1979, Verboon pursued his passion for the built environment early on.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in architecture from the University of Cincinnati in 2003 and went on to complete a Master’s degree in engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology in 2007.

He began his career at michael mcinturf ARCHITECTS before joining Buro Happold, where he spent eight years and rose to the position of associate. His journey then brought him to Walter P Moore, where his visionary thinking and collaborative spirit helped build one of the most respected facade engineering practices in the country.

In addition to his professional achievements, Verboon was a dedicated educator who shared his knowledge and passion with future generations of designers and engineers.

He held teaching appointments at Pratt Institute, Columbia GSAPP, the University of Pennsylvania, and Stevens Institute of Technology, where he inspired countless students to approach the built environment with curiosity, creativity, and technical excellence.

Verboon was also a cherished member of the architectural media community. As a longtime friend of The Architect’s Newspaper, he served on Best of Design juries and frequently spoke at Facades+ events, where his insight and enthusiasm made a lasting impression.

“There are only a handful of people in this world who truly shine with a bright, unmistakable light. Erik Verboon was one of those rare stars,” said Diana Darling, CEO and creative director of The Architect’s Newspaper.

“He was always kind—welcoming our ideas, supporting our work, and giving so much of himself to others. His generosity, enthusiasm, and presence left a mark that cannot be forgotten.”

Colleagues also remember Verboon for his humility, humor, and deep love for his family. “I will miss our conversations about his family and the adventures they shared,” said Dionne Darling, AN’s vice president of brand partnerships. “He lit up when speaking about them. His warmth, curiosity, and thoughtfulness made every interaction meaningful.”

Erik Verboon is survived by his wife, Michelle Bauer Verboon, and their children, who were the center of his world. His passing is a profound loss not only to his loved ones but to the global design and engineering communities that benefited from his brilliance and humanity.

Though his time was far too short, Verboon’s legacy—etched into skylines, classrooms, and the hearts of those he touched—will endure for generations. His light burned bright, and though it has dimmed too soon, its warmth and brilliance will continue to inspire.