“The Partner with the Open Door”
With great sadness, we mark the passing of Richard Leslie Combs, the visionary Denver architect who founded and co-owned the firm Sink Combs Dethlefs, now Perkins&Will’s Denver studio. In May 2024, Richard left us, but his legacy of iconic design, exceptional leadership, and boundless passion for architecture will forever inspire our work. Combs made significant contributions to the practice of architecture on the local and national levels, pioneering arena design methods and contributing to the urban landscape of Denver, Colorado.
A Glendale, California native, Combs earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Texas Tech University. Moving to Denver, he joined Charles S. Sink’s firm, swiftly rising to Associate the same year for his impactful contributions as project architect and project manager. In 1979, Combs was elevated to firm Principal and the name was changed to Sink Combs and Associates. He served as Vice President and Secretary, and acted as the firm’s technical director, ensuring the work executed was of the highest professional standard.
During this time, he became known as “the partner with the open door,” as many of the young architects and recent hires often sought his advice and mentorship to help them in their work and career growth. As a natural leader with a warm and caring demeanor, he helped train a new generation of architects and fostered an atmosphere of camaraderie with the Denver studio. He mentored numerous architects through their careers, encouraging personal growth, accountability, and public duty.
