Thomas Gordon Smith and the Rebirth of Classical Architecture

by Richard R. John

For the past two decades, Thomas Gordon Smith has played a central role in the revival of classicism in contemporary architecture in America. In the late 1970s he became a key figure in the development of Post-Modernism but after contributing to that movement's seminal exhibition at the 1980 Venice Biennale he rejected the ironical approach of Robert Venturi and the decontextualization of Charles Moore, to develop an architecture which draws freely on the twenty-five centuries of the classical tradition. His conviction in the enduring relevance of the tradition to contemporary life has resulted in buildings which in terms of materials and function are just as much a product of the modern world as a High-Tech office building or a Decon museum extension; but in addition to admirably fulfilling the job for which they were intended, they also have the rare quality of engaging us intellectually. This extensively illustrated monograph presents Thomas Gordon Smith's buildings and projects for the first time. A biographical essay explores the polymathic range of his other activities, including his influential role as an educator, commentator on Vitruvius, historian of the Greek Revival, painter of frescoes, and designer and collector of furniture.

Paperback

First published February 1, 2001

About the author

Richard R. John is a historian who specializes in the history of business, technology, communications, and American political development. He teaches and advises graduate students in Columbia’s Ph.D. program in communications, and is member of the core faculty of the Columbia history department, where he teaches courses on the history of capitalism and the history of communications.

Reviews

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I only happened to come across this book when someone returned it to my library. It's about the life's work of two of my best friends dad, and I had to read it.

Sure, I'll admit that I am biased, but it's a great showcase for an amazing architect.

And, while I don't want to embarrasses my boys... I hope that I can have a wedding photo as amazing as the one of their folks on pg. 12.