A Concise History of Canadian Architecture

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As in the original work, Harold Kalman emphasizes social and cultural contexts, bringing to light several distinctive characteristics of Canadian architects and their work. Among them are a respect for nature, natural forms, and local materials; a tendency to absorb ideas from abroad and them simplify or restrain them; a preference for the middle ground between extreme modernism and extreme traditionalism; and a flair for innovation in response to social needs. Convenience for readers is not the only respect in which this concise edition differs from the original two-volume History of Canadian Architecture. As well, the focus on architecture itself (as opposed to town planning) has been sharpened; the organization of the text has been clarified; and the final chapter, on modern architecture, has been expanded to include more than a dozen new buildings. Offering all the authority of the original edition, which was awarded the Sir John A. MacDonald Prize given by the Canadian Historical Association, the Concise History of Canaldian Architecture will appeal to everyone with an interest in Canada's history as well as those fascinated by architecture. Describing Canada's building history in lucid and interesting narrative, this volume is also lavishly illustrated with over 700 black-and-white images, making it the one-volume source on our architectural heritage.