In Memoriam: Stephen Kiely

It is with heavy hearts that we mark the passing of our friend and colleague, Stephen Kiely on June 1, 2025. Born in Rockville Centre, New York, Stephen’s 70 years were defined by a tireless pursuit of beauty, precision, and compassion—qualities that shaped both his life and his work. Stephen’s calm presence and unwavering integrity left an indelible mark on every project—and every person—he encountered.

From the first moment you met Stephen, you sensed his dual devotion to precision and compassion. In the studio at Freeman French Freeman, he was a master of detail, tirelessly refining to make sure every design worked and integrated into the project as a whole. His redline-markups weren’t just technical documents; they were invitations to reflect and engage. His love and passion for building contributed to his deep understanding of the constructability of ideas.  

Beyond architecture, Stephen’s Buddhist practice illuminated his path. Over the past year, he embarked on a deeply personal project: the construction of a Stupa—a sacred monument dedicated to peace and reflection. It was becoming an outward expression of his faith: a place for quiet reflection and devotion. Block by block, it embodied his belief that architecture can nurture both the individual spirit and the wider community. 

Stephen was also a gifted painter, channeling the same quiet sensitivity of architectural detailing into oil and watercolor works. His canvases revealed an intuitive grasp of light and shadow—another facet of the harmony he sought between form and meaning.

Stephen never shied away from a thoughtful conversation. As a friend and colleague, Stephen was generous with his time and ideas.  Whether over the computer in the studio or amid the quickly turning weather of Vermont, he approached every discussion with genuine warmth.  He spoke candidly about his convictions—politics, wholistic health, the human capacity for kindness—always ready to listen as fully as he spoke.

His legacy endures in the precision of his details, and the countless moments of thoughtful connection he shared. May we honor him by carrying forward his commitment to craft, quiet rigor, kindness, and the transformative power of design, as well as his unwavering belief that every detail matters—both in design and in life.  

Tom Bursey, AIAVT President