David Rock

David Annison Rock (27 May 1929 – 15 November 2025) was an English architect, graphic designer, illustrator and painter, who was twice RIBA vice-president (1986–1987 and 1995–1997) and RIBA president from 1997 to 1999.

Life and career Rock was born in Sunderland on 27 May 1929. After school, he went to the Newcastle University School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (then part of Durham University) from 1947 to 1952, leaving with a first-class honours. He studied under Lord Holford and Peter Smithson who described him as "the most naturally gifted and talented architect he'd ever met". He then worked for Basil Spence for five years.

Rock was a supporter of the radical architecture group Archigram in the 1960s and 1970s. He nominated them for the RIBA Royal Gold Medal, which they received in 2002, describing the group as "a necessary irritant".

Rock left Rock Townsend in 1993, and, after two separate terms as RIBA vice-president (1986–87 and 1995–97), was RIBA president between 1997 and 1999.

Chair of the Scottish Society of Architect Artists,

Rock died on 15 November 2025, at the age of 96.