A Concise History of Canadian Architecture

James A. Love is a professor of architecture in the Faculty of
Environmental Design and an adjunct professor of mechanical engineering
at the University of Calgary. His latest publication (in press) is the
Illuminating Engineering Society’s Recommended

Creation of an architectural history of Canada would be a daunting task
for a full-time academic. It is remarkable that Harold Kalman, a
heritage consultant, should produce a two-volume edition, condensed to
this recent release. One would hope that libraries would acquire the
full set, while this book would find a place beside The Canadian
Encyclopedia in the homes of the nation. As the author comments, “the
organization follows no rigorous framework, but rather flows in a way
that I thought best suited each period and architectural event.” What
could be more pleasant than to follow an aficionado on a thematic tour
through history rather than being locked into a chronological
straitjacket?

One wishes that Kalman gave some explanation of his choice of themes.
From First Nations to contemporary cities, this history tells the story
of buildings as they served individuals and societies. The illustrations
complement the text, but a couple of pages explaining the interpretation
of plans and sections would have been an invaluable aid to the lay
reader. Suggested further reading for each thematic section, in addition
to the scholarly bibliography, would likewise have been a welcome
encouragement to the budding architectural enthusiast.