Assembling the Architect: The History and Theory of Professional Practice

I bought my copy of Assembling the Architect several months ago. It was only recently, seizing the opportunity created by sheltering in place, that I made the time to do it justice. There, in the quiet of my confinement, I was able to give it the attention it deserves.In this scholarly effort, George Johnston has captured more than a century of evolution of architectural practice. Practitioners and students would do well to absorb it. A heavy pour of a favorite Cabernet, a cold IPA, or a fine cup of coffee, and an incandescent lamp would be fine accompaniments.As I digested the introduction, I began to get a feel for the magnitude and careful phrasing of the content. Highlighting sentence after sentence, creating notes and marginalia as I went, I appreciated the care with which it was written.This book is a deeply-researched dive into the history of the gestation and evolution of architectural practice, replete with stories of the early players, emerging formative practices, and issues of the day, as it evolved from art and science to business and profession. The development of the AIA Handbook of Professional Practice in 1920 plays a central role in placing the evolution of practice in historical context.No idle critique, or cliched restatement of problems, Johnston’s book is a significant contribution to the body of knowledge. A must have for all who seek to understand the practice of architecture, its evolution, and its ever-changing position in the built environment industry. This book deserves a place alongside other notable sources on practice and the profession such as the works by Gutman, Cuff, Kostof, Lewis, et al.Buy this book. Reserve some quiet time. Grab a pencil and your favorite beverage.Dive in. You’ll be glad you did.Michael LeFevre, FAIA Emeritus, Author, Managing Design