m j Long

Architecture

1939 – 2018

Suggested by Tom Ebdon

“MJ Long OBE, architect, academic and author was best known as the architect of the British Library in London, but her work in Cornwall is equally important. She was the architect of the National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth, PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Telecommunications, the refurbishment of the Porthmeor Studios, St. Ives, and was a visiting professor of architecture at Falmouth University. MJ was an exceptional talent, dedicated to her profession and fundamental in raising the standard of public buildings across the UK and especially in Cornwall. She leaves a lasting legacy through her dedication and care for the built environment.

MJ Long was a true pioneer, the first women in many positions across the architectural profession and academia and an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of meeting her. She was an inspirational architect, teacher and friend, and provided exceptional guidance to me personally and professionally when establishing an architecture programme at Falmouth University. MJ gave her time and attention with enormous generosity and grace, bringing her experience and fierce intellect to discussions without ego or expectations and with an ease that made it a pleasure to work with her. With an ability to see problems as creative challenges, she had a gentle way of asking critical questions that always got to the core of an issue.

MJ lived and worked in Cornwall, designing and building three significant buildings and engaging energetically with many areas of the built environment. She remained connected to Cornwall throughout her career, showing great knowledge and leadership in developing great schemes for Falmouth and Cornwall.”