
Jeffrey Beers (1956-2024)
Announcement of Passing of Jeffrey Beers, Founder and CEO of JBI
It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our Founder and CEO, Architect Jeffrey Beers, from a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 67. Jeffrey Beers International (JBI) mourns the loss of our visionary leader, mentor, and dear friend.
Speaking on behalf of the studio, newly appointed Partners Tim Rooney, Nora Liu-Kanter and Michael Pandolfi state, “During this difficult time, our priority remains supporting Jeffrey's family and the JBI team as we navigate this loss. We ask for your understanding, patience, and privacy as we work through this period of grief and transition.”
Jeffrey passed away peacefully in the evening hours on Monday, March 18th. He was surrounded by his wife, Connie, and his two sons, Justin and Oliver. Details about his memorial and ways we all can honor his legacy will be available in the coming days.
Jeffrey's impact on our studio, the architectural industry, the hospitality design industry and countless communities around the world is immeasurable. His unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and integrity has shaped JBI into the renowned firm it is today. His creative genius and compassionate leadership have inspired all who had the privilege of working with him.
Jeffrey Beers was an architect, designer, and an artist whose distinctive work brought emotion to modernism. He studied architecture at the Rhode Island School of Design while learning glassblowing from the renowned artist Dale Chihuly. He was awarded a Fulbright scholarship and traveled to Brazil to study with the legendary Oscar Niemeyer. When he returned to New York he went to work for I.M. Pei. These masters defined his vision: the dynamic use of space, subtle materiality, and tailored elegance. In 1986 he established Jeffrey Beers International, bringing his signature sensibility to some of New York’s most vibrant restaurants. He quickly expanded into hotels, resorts, and residences. When he was not brainstorming design ideas with his studio, you could find Jeffrey sculpting with molten glass, sustainably deep-sea fishing off the coast of the Atlantic or cooking a meal for family and friends.
