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 then simplify or restrain them; a preference for the midde 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. Describing Canada's building history in a 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.

Harold Kalman , Partner, Commonwealth Historical Resource Management Ltd., Vancouver, Canada