Architect who helped shape look of Arlington Heights dies
A sitting member of the Arlington Heights Design Commission, whose 20-year history with the group and background as a commercial architect helped shape the look of the village, has died.
Alan Bombick was one of two architects appointed to commission when it formed in 1995. He passed away Monday after battling cancer. The Arlington Heights resident was 61.
Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes described Bombick as a community leader who provided thoughtful input on countless projects over the years.
“Alan was instrumental in ensuring the high quality of any new development, and in preserving the residential character of our neighborhoods,” Hayes said.
It was former Mayor Arlene Mulder who called for the formation of the design commission. Its members evaluate major commercial developments, teardown projects and major home remodeling jobs, and evaluate sign variations.
“He was immensely articulate in his review of each and every project,” said Ted Eckhardt, chairman of the design commission, and another charter member. “He always had very meaningful comments to petitioners.”
Bombick brought his background as a successful architect to the group. He began his career with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, before joining Legat Architects in Palatine as a principal and director of its commercial/mixed use practice.
He lent his expertise in that area with mixed-use developments that came before the commission, most recently with Arlington Downs, the redevelopment of the former Sheraton hotel near Arlington Park.
“Their original plans called for more traditional styles, more in line with the racetrack,” Eckhardt said, “but with Alan's input, he pushed them to do more, and design something more contemporary, which they did.”
Steve Hautzinger, design planner on staff with the village of Arlington Heights, said that while Bombick promoted modern architectural design, he also had a passion for historic preservation.
“In recent years, with many new homes being built, Alan has been a strong advocate for home designs that promote community interaction with front porches,” Hautzinger said. “They became the focal point to create pleasant, walkable neighborhoods.”
Eckhardt concurred, adding that Bombick particularly loved old-fashioned bungalow homes — he lived in one himself — and worked to maintain their integrity in the village.
“He helped petitioners understand the style they were looking to build, and he was particularly skilled in pointing out other examples in town,” he added.
Bombick is survived by his wife, Dianne, and children Lauren (C.J. Peterson) Bombick and Michael (Zaneta Slys) Bombick; as well as two grandchildren.
Visitation will take place from 3-8 p.m. Thursday before an 11 a.m. funeral service on Friday, both at Lauterburg & Oehler Funeral Home, 2000 E. Northwest Highway in Arlington Heights.