ABOUT JOHN
John has been crafting distinctive buildings since 1982. His body of work includes public schools, university buildings, municipal buildings, performing arts facilities and houses. John’s diverse portfolio demonstrates a deep understanding of design, regulatory and financial considerations and the ability to negotiate these competing interests into functional and affordable buildings that are pleasant contributions to our built environment.
John enjoys traveling to the world’s great places, riding a motorcycle and the music of the Grateful Dead.
STUDIO
I work as a sole-practitioner ably assisted by two cats, Skye and Ollie, and puppy Pearly Baker! Working independently suits me. I enjoy doing it all - design, drafting, writing specs, construction phase, sales/marketing, bookkeeping, website, social media, etc., etc. At times it can be a bit overwhelming, but this comprehensive “hands-on” approach better serves my clients, my projects and myself. In short, sole-practitioner equals sole responsibility - no confusion or finger pointing in this studio (although, there is the occasional paw jab!). I have longstanding, well-established relationships with several consultants and collaborators who assist me, when the need arises.
My studio is attached to the rear of my house. I built it in 1989. It is an inspirational work space. My ever-expanding library is bursting at the seams, but it provides resources for my creative endeavors. A large east-facing window floods the space with natural light, especially on bright and sunny Maine mornings. My “commute”? Only 8 feet from my house!
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE
John has been an active member of the American Institute of Architects, Maine Chapter since 1991. In 2003, he joined AIA Maine’s Board of Directors and served as the Chapter’s president for two years (2005-2006). John is a founding member of AIA Maine’s Committee on the Environment and served as its chairperson for three years (2007-2009). He has authored the Green Column for AIA Maine News. John is a co-founder of Design Norvmbega, a Maine lecture series focused on architecture.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
John has served the following community-based organizations: Friends of Fort Knox, Board Member; Bucksport Economic Development Committee, founding member; and, Bucksport Planning Board, member. He was co-founder of the Bucksport Soccer Club. John served as Bucksport High School Varsity Girls Soccer Coach 2000-2006 and volunteer assistant for BHS Girls Varsity Soccer. John is a member of the Board of Corporators at Bangor Savings Bank.
EDUCATION
John was educated at Cornell University. He graduated in 1982 from the College of Human Ecology with a Bachelor of Science degree in Design and Environmental Analysis.
REGISTRATION
Registered Architect. State of Maine. 1991. License No. ARC1914.
“Are we being good ancestors?”
Jonas Salk
“THIS OLD HOUSE”
2013. Essex Series. Episode 3, “One-Level Living”.
A four-minute feature segment wherein Master Carpenter Norm Abram visits Bucksport, Maine to meet architect John Gordon and tour the accessible house he designed for his quadriplegic daughter, Jessica.
PUBLICATIONS
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