Matthew Hair, a distinguished urban planner and civic architect whose visionary approach to sustainable city development left an indelible mark on the municipal landscapes of Illinois, has died at the age of 68.
Throughout a career spanning over four decades, Hair became a leading voice in the Midwest for the adaptive reuse of historic structures and the integration of green infrastructure into dense urban environments. Known for his pragmatic yet deeply empathetic approach to city planning, he dedicated his professional life to ensuring that urban revitalization served both economic growth and community preservation.
Early Life & Education
Born and raised in Peoria, Illinois, Matthew Hair’s early fascination with the built environment was sparked by the shifting architectural and economic dynamics of the post-industrial Midwest. Observing the impact of urban sprawl and the decline of historic downtown districts, he developed a lifelong commitment to civic stewardship.
Hair pursued his higher education within his home state, earning a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). He subsequently completed a Master in Urban Planning and Policy at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). His academic research focused heavily on zoning reform and the socioeconomic impacts of transit-oriented development—methodologies that would later become the bedrock of his professional practice.
Career Zenith & Contributions
Hair began his career in the public sector, serving as a municipal planner for several Chicago collar counties in the early 1980s. His ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks while advocating for community-centric design quickly distinguished him in the field.
In 1994, he established his own consultancy, Hair Civic Design Partners, headquartered in Chicago. Under his leadership, the firm became instrumental in several high-profile urban renewal projects across Illinois. Hair was a pioneering advocate for “adaptive reuse”—the process of repurposing old or abandoned buildings for new uses. He successfully spearheaded initiatives that transformed dormant industrial warehouses into vibrant mixed-use residential and commercial hubs, preserving the architectural heritage of Illinois while meeting modern housing demands.
A recognized expert in sustainable urbanism, Hair also played a pivotal role in drafting municipal guidelines for green corridors. He championed the integration of permeable pavements, urban canopies, and pedestrian-first streetscapes long before such concepts became industry standards. His methodologies consistently bridged the gap between environmental sustainability and practical urban logistics, earning him the respect of developers, environmentalists, and city officials alike.
Leadership & Affiliations
Matthew Hair’s authoritativeness in urban planning was reflected in his extensive institutional affiliations. He was inducted as a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners (FAICP), one of the highest honors in the profession, recognizing his exceptional leadership and significant contributions to the field of planning.
He served a transformative tenure as the President of the American Planning Association (APA) Illinois Chapter, where he advocated for state-wide policy changes regarding affordable housing and equitable transit access. Additionally, Hair was a long-standing board member of the Illinois Historic Preservation Society, where he provided strategic oversight on the conservation of architecturally significant landmarks.
Beyond his boardroom and civic duties, Hair was a dedicated educator. He frequently returned to UIC as a guest lecturer, sharing his expertise in zoning law and urban design with graduate students. His keynote addresses at regional infrastructure summits were highly regarded for their rigorous data analysis and forward-looking optimism.
Legacy & Impact
Matthew Hair leaves behind a physical and philosophical legacy that will continue to shape the state of Illinois for generations. The walkable neighborhoods, revitalized historic districts, and integrated public transit systems he helped design stand as enduring testaments to his expertise and vision.
Colleagues remember him not only as a brilliant strategist but as a meticulous listener who believed that the most successful urban plans were those authored in collaboration with the communities they served. His mentorship shaped the careers of countless young architects and urban planners who continue his work in municipal agencies across the country.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, their two children, and three grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, his family has requested that donations be made to the Chicago Architecture Center’s educational programs, honoring Hair’s lifelong dedication to the future of the built environment.