“Architects have been achieving their objectives with a rich language that continues to evolve. The poetry of architecture emerges when it is used in inspired and beautiful ways.” Laurence Booth

Modern Beyond Style and the Pursuit of Beauty chronicles the career of architect Larry Booth whose work parallels, and in many ways has led, the development of modern architecture for more than 50 years. Beginning when mid-century modernism was distrustful of tradition, Larry was one of the few architects in Chicago to show that the best architecture involves many influences, including historical ones. As a member of the Chicago Seven, a group of dissident avant-garde architects in the 1970s, he showed how the architectural past could and should be a part of the modern.

Over a long career, Larry has practiced his distinct architecture by synthesizing up-to-date construction techniques, including sustainable ones, with design that evokes, for example, Mies in some aspects and Palladio in others. Because the blend of modernity and tradition requires substantial reserves of creativity, Larry has been involved in continuous research in ways to maximize innovation with architectural grace. He believes today, as he believed when he began his practice, that beauty is the highest standard of architectural excellence—and that it remains as simple to witness as it is challenge to achieve.

Join us for a lively discussion of this new book with Larry Booth and local author Jay Pridmore. Larry is currently Principal of Booth Hansen Architects. The author of the book, Jay Pridmore, is a Lake Forest native and independent author who has written many books about Chicago architecture, 20th century history and several biographies.

There is no charge but please RSVP below.