Description
Book Synopsis: Booklist Starred ReviewNamed to the 2022 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading ListThe Spanish architects Rafael Guastavino Sr. and his son, Rafael Guastavino Jr., designed more than one thousand iconic spaces across New York City and the United States, such as the New York City Hall Subway Station (still a tourist destination though no longer active), the Manhattan Federal Reserve Bank, the Nebraska State Capitol, the Great Hall of Ellis Island, the Oyster bar at Grand Central Terminal in New York, the Elephant House at the Bronx Zoo, the soaring tiled vaults under the Queensboro Bridge, the central dome of the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, and the Boston Public Library. Written in the voice of the son, who was eight years old in 1881 when he immigrated to America with his father, this is their story.
Rafael Guastavino Sr. was 39 when he left a successful career as an architect in Barcelona. American cities—densely packed and built largely of wood—were experiencing horrific fires, and Guastavino had the solution: The soaring interior spaces created by his tiled vaults and domes made buildings sturdier, fireproof, and beautiful. What he didn’t have was fluent English. Unable to win design commissions, he transferred control of the company to his American-educated son, whose subsequent half-century of inspired design work resulted in major contributions to the built environment of America. Immigrant Architect is an introduction to architectural concepts and a timely reminder of immigrant contributions to America. The book includes four route maps for visiting Guastavino-designed spaces in New York City: uptown, midtown, downtown, and Prospect Park. full color Read more.
Details
Are you fascinated by the hidden architectural gems that define the landscapes of American cities? Look no further than "Immigrant Architect: Rafael Guastavino and the American Dream". This captivating book takes you on a journey through the awe-inspiring designs of Rafael Guastavino Sr. and his son, Rafael Guastavino Jr., who left an indelible mark on iconic spaces across New York City and the United States.
Experience the magic of the New York City Hall Subway Station, the Manhattan Federal Reserve Bank, and the Great Hall of Ellis Island, all brought to life through the meticulous narration written in the voice of the son himself. In their quest for safer and more beautiful architecture, the Guastavino duo revolutionized the construction industry by introducing the concept of tiled vaults and domes, making buildings not only fireproof but also structurally stunning.
Discover the untold story of Rafael Guastavino Sr.'s transition from a successful architect in Barcelona to an immigrant architect in America. Overcoming language barriers and facing the immense challenge of breaking into the American design market, this remarkable tale of resilience and ingenuity will leave you inspired.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of immigrant contributions to America's built environment and gain a deeper appreciation for the architectural wonders that surround us. As an added bonus, the book provides four route maps to explore Guastavino-designed spaces in New York City, allowing you to embark on your own architectural adventure.
Dive into the vibrant world of "Immigrant Architect: Rafael Guastavino and the American Dream" and witness the legacy of two visionary architects. Uncover the secrets behind the still-standing masterpieces, such as the stunning tiled vaults under the Queensboro Bridge and the majestic domes of the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine.
Don't miss this golden opportunity to delve into the captivating world of architectural history and immigrant contributions. Order your copy of "Immigrant Architect: Rafael Guastavino and the American Dream" today and embark on a journey that will forever change the way you see the world around you.
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