VAN LEYEN, Edward C. (1867-1931), of Detroit, Michigan prepared an elaborate plan for the Hotel Coronado, LAKE ST. CLAIR, ONT. in 1894 (Inland Architect [Chicago], xxiii, April 1894, illus.). This resort complex, executed in a Spanish Colonial revival style, was a picturesque, even theatrical landmark, with its arcaded verandahs and balconied towers. In 1911 he designed a large residence for Thomas L. Dates, OWEN SOUND, ONT, one of the first private dwellings in Ontario to be constructed of 'artistic concrete block' (C.R., xxv, 28 June 1911, 40, illus.). With his partner Edward A. Schilling of Detroit he prepared plans for General Brock Public School, Bedford Street at Huron Street, SANDWICH, ONT. in 1913-14 (C.R., xxvii, 2 July 1913, 69; Evening Record [Windsor], 15 May 1913, 3, t.c.; and 7 June 1915, 3, illus. & descrip.).
Van Leyen was born in Detroit, Mich. and educated in public school there. He trained as a draftsman in the office of John Scott & Co. and opened an office under his own name in 1886. He later formed a partnership with James Hackett, and in 1908 they were joined by Edward Arthur Schilling (1871-1952), and the firm was renamed Van Leyen, Schilling & Keough. Van Leyen remained active in this Detroit firm until his accidental death on 9 January 1931 (obit. and port. Detroit Free Press, 10 January 1931, 2; obituary Kitchener Daily Record, 10 Jan. 1931, 11). Edward Schilling died in Detroit on 11 September 1952 (obit. and port. Detroit Free Press, 12 Sept. 1952, 21).