The Life and Work of the Twentieth-century Louisiana Architect, A. Hays Town

Book excerpt: This is the first thorough and substantive examination of architect A. Hays Town's work. His 70-year career provides an ideal case study in the evolution of 20th-century American architecture, spanning from a period dominated by Beaux Arts formalism, through a period characterized by the assimilation and acceptance of European Modernism, to a period once again receptive to traditional and regional influences. This examination reveals the remarkable talent and logic which enabled him to assimilate a wide variety of influences from his education and early career as well as influences from the historical examples of his region. It contributes both to an understanding of the potential use of vernacular traditions in general, and specifically, of the rich architectural influences present through Louisiana's long and intriguing history. The study also includes a discussion of Town's habits, values and relationships, providing valuable insights into typical issues involved in the practice of architecture.