Les Beilinson

Les Dennis Beilinson (7 November 1946 – 14 June 2013) was an American architect and preservationist. He was known for his work in Miami's Art Deco district, both preserving existing architecture and ensuring its ongoing viability through modernization and upgrade for commercial purposes. As a founding member of the City of Miami Historic Preservation board, Beilinson was a defender of the glory days of 1940s and 1950s Miami against threats from unmoderated development. Beilinson was the founding partner of Beilinson Gomez Architects, PA, in partnership with Jose Gomez, AIA.

Biography

Early life Beilinson grew up in Miami Beach during the 1940s and 1950s, years associated with the development of the city's unique Art Deco district. Beilinson attended the Miami Beach Senior High School

With his expertise in wood-frame construction, Beilinson also worked outside of Miami through his practice, Beilinson Gomez Architects, he worked on the historic Lyric Theater, Overtown, Freedom Tower, Hialeah Park, and the Opa-locka Betsy Ross

It was the relationship with Barbara Baer Capitman that first saw Beilinson develop his interest in historic preservation into action in the 1970s. Beilinson said “Barbara was very driven, knew what she wanted and she persevered to get it. She was the first one to see these old 1930s buildings as a resource for Miami Beach – and she was convincing.” 2008, Miami Chapter, American Institute of Architects, 2008 Design Award, Barbara Residence, Miami Beach.