Ever wondered what makes Canadian architecture so unique? It's a question Guelph author Don Mikel has dedicated his life to answering, and his new book, Canadian Architectural Styles: A Field Guide, is the culmination of that passion. This isn't just another coffee table book; it's a comprehensive guide that's set to become the definitive resource for anyone curious about the buildings that shape our nation.
Mikel's book takes readers on a visual journey through Canada's architectural heritage, showcasing a stunning collection of 1,100 photographs and referencing 373 architects across 171 communities. From the stately Georgian and Gothic Revival buildings of the 19th century to the sleek Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern, and Brutalist designs of the 20th and 21st centuries, the book covers a vast range of styles. The examples are drawn from across Canada, highlighting the diverse architectural landscape of rural, small-town, and urban settings.
Mikel's motivation for writing the book stems from a desire to educate and inspire. He felt there was a need for a guide that would help people better understand Canadian building styles and support heritage conservation efforts, particularly as communities face increasing development pressures. But here's where it gets controversial: Mikel's book isn't just about cataloging buildings; it's about understanding the cultural and regional variations, the impact of climate, and the use of local materials that make each structure unique.
The journey to create this guide was a long one, spanning 50 years of Mikel's life. He was inspired by existing field guides for other countries, realizing the need for a similar resource dedicated to Canadian architecture.
The book features 23 examples from Guelph, including the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate and the Ker Cavan House. Mikel's travels took him across the country, capturing the architectural gems of each province. He began in Ontario, then ventured to the Maritimes, Newfoundland, and across the West.
After three months of travel, Mikel amassed 75,000 images. He aimed to include buildings that represent transitions, evolutions, or unique designs, offering readers a broader perspective on architectural styles. He emphasizes that buildings are expressions of international styles, but what makes Canadian architecture interesting is how we adapt and incorporate those styles into our unique context. This includes factors like culture, climate, and building materials.
Mikel's interest in architecture began in his youth, growing up in old houses and becoming involved with the Port Hope Architectural Conservatory. He's a member of the City of Guelph Heritage Advisory Committee and has been involved in several other conservation organizations. He's also restored five heritage homes and consulted on many more.
And this is the part most people miss: Mikel's book isn't just about identifying styles; it's about understanding the stories behind the buildings. He explains how different groups, like the Loyalists, used specific materials based on their traditions.
Mikel's goal wasn't to find one perfect building, but to showcase a wide variety of interesting structures. The book is designed to be concise and accessible, with checklists at the end of each section to help readers easily identify different architectural styles.
Mikel's commitment to conservation is evident throughout the book. He believes that educating people about architecture leads to greater appreciation and value. He emphasizes that heritage conservation is not just about preserving landmarks but also about preserving neighborhoods and ensuring their sympathetic evolution over time.
Mikel's book highlights the ongoing debate between development and conservation. He believes that these two can coexist if done properly, and that preserving the past is essential for building a better future.
Canadian Architectural Styles: A Field Guide is available for purchase at the Bookshelf, Amazon, and Indigo.
What do you think? Are you more interested in Canadian architecture after reading this? Do you agree with Mikel's views on conservation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
