Born in Raleigh, Thomas Cooper was self-taught in architecture and engineering.  He worked for James Salter from 1914-1917, left to work for the Newport News Shipbuilding Company, then returned to the firm now called Salter and Nelson.  When Salter left, Cooper became a partner.  He designed the State Agriculture Building in Raleigh and many traditional houses in Raleigh's Hayes Barton area.  In 1944, he partnered with Ross Shumaker who was campus architect at NCSU. Towards the end of his career,  Cooper partnered with Albert Haskins and Richard Rice to form Cooper Haskins and Rice.  Cooper designed the Beth Meyer Synagogue on St. Mary’s Street in 1951, one of the first local modern houses of worship.  He was President of the AIANC in 1952.

1951 - The Thomas and Grace Cooper Residence, his own house at 107 King William Rd, Raleigh. 1.32 acres.  Sold in 1958 by his widow to Ann P. Montague.  Sold in 1963 to Geneva Bennett Stutts.  Sold in 1977 to Glen and Elizabeth Crawford.  Sold in 1993 to John Edward Dilley.  Sold in 1993 to John M. Laing.  Bought in 2002 by Patrick W. and Debra L. Cochran.  Has been renovated.

1953 - The Leon and Cynthia Agnew Residence, 400 Lake Boone Trail, Raleigh.  Sold in 1962 to Aileen Ingram Lynn.  Sold in 1994 to Peter and Charlotte Floyd.  Photo by Leilani Carter.