Baermann, Walter Peter, 1903-1972

Walter Peter Baermann was born on September 1, 1903 in southwest Germany. He earned an M.A. in architecture (1924), and a M.A. in mechanical engineering (1926), both from the Institute of Technology in Munich. In 1927, Baermann received a Ph.D. from the University of Munich. He moved to the United States in 1929, beginning his career with well-known designers such as Joseph Urban, Norman Bel Geddes, and Henry Dreyfuss. Baermann, by 1931, became the chief designer for Howe and Lescaze, an architectural firm with offices in New York and Philadelphia. During this period he spearheaded the design for the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society Building, one of the prototypes for the modern skyscraper. In 1932, Fortune Magazine listed him among the first twelve successful practitioners of industrial design. One year later, Baermann volunteered as an apprentice in New England industries to familiarize himself with American manufacturing methods, labor conditions, markets, and management methods. In November, 1933, he opened his own industrial design office in Holyoke, Massachusetts. During this time, Baermann began to exhibit his work throughout the region and authored articles in The Architectural Record and The Commonweal.

Combining his interest design and academics, Baermann joined, in 1937, the California Institute of Technology's faculty. He helped organize the Graduate Department of Industrial Design Engineering and was appointed professor and director of the new department. While still in private practice, Baermann lectured widely at universities throughout the United States. Baermann was also a member of the California Division of the President's National Resources Planning Board, and worked as a consultant (labor training specialist) to the War Production Board. In 1941, Baermann continued his academic career as head of the Design Department of Cranbrook Academy in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan; later that year, he became Chief of Graphics in the Office of Civilian Defense in Washington, D.C.

Resuming his design career in 1944, first in New York, then in North Carolina, Baermann formed his design company, Baermann & Associates. In 1964, Henry Kamphoefner recruited Baermann to teach at the School of Design at NC State University in Raleigh, NC. Baermann taught in the School of Design, believing that psychology, sociology, engineering, production technology, ecology, and cultural considerations should all be a part of the curriculum. At NC State, Baermann was an active member of the Educational Policy and Continuing Education Committees of the Faculty Senate, and participated in the University Program on Science and Society, securing a Foundation research grant. From 1969-1972 he worked at the Center for Urban Affairs and Community Services; and until the time of his death at the age of sixty nine in November, 1972, he was involved in a joint project on Engineering and Design with the Engineering School of Duke University and NC State University.

From the guide to the Walter Peter Baermann Papers, 1903-1972, (Special Collections Research Center)