Customer Reviews

Caltech's Architectural Heritage, From Spanish Tile to Modern Stone

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At first glance Romy Wyllie's new book "Caltech's Architectural Heritage: From Spanish Tile to Modern Stone" may only seem like a wonderfully handsome architectural review of the campus...but it is no less than a commentary on how valuable architecture and design are to an institution. This book should be on the reading list of every corporate board member, college president and community hospital chairman. In fact any group that fosters thinking and the development of ideas, should read the saga that lead to the development of one of the great educational institutions of the world. This is an outstanding book from a small quality press. Every turn of the page was richly rewarded through clear writing, contemporary and historical photos and key architectural illustrations. This work clearly demonstrates the importance of providing a shared vision for an institution through the defining years of its growth. And that through incorporating art and the humanities into the architectural setting of the learning environment it will galvanize its place in the student's life long after they have left.

A fascinating history of an American Scientific institution from it's beginning in 1891 as a place where both sexes and all religious opinions were afforded "a liberal and practical education" and "non-sectarian in character". Caltech began and continues to uphold values that represent future ambitions, technology and possibilities for America and the New world. Their architectural heritage began with buildings in the Spanish Colonial Style but continued to expand into related Mediterranean themes into the next century. Rare and fascinating photographs accompanied with beautifully detailed research and commentary. An important and excellent scholarship, which does not require a PHD to read and enjoy. Thank you Romy Wyllie. Well done!