The Academy: Celebrating the Work of John Simpson at the Walsh Family Hall, University of Notre Dame, Indiana

The Academy celebrates the architect John Simpson's newly finished building for the School of Architecture at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana: the Walsh Family Hall. The language of John Simpson's architecture, which derives from the fifth century BC, has been daringly applied to new uses and an instant landmark of exceptional interest has been created. Through a judicious combination of Classical richness and warehouse-like workspace the Walsh Family Hall provides a humane and joyous series of spaces, which elevates the spirits of those entering and passing through it. This book describes not only the architecture of the Walsh Family Hall but the process whereby it came into existence, with written contributions from the generous donors, Matt and Joyce Walsh; Dean Michael Lykoudis, who commissioned the building; and some of the students who work in these uplifting surroundings. Further educational works by John Simpson such as his new 'yard' for Eton College and major new additions and improvements to the Royal College of Music in London are described, with an essay by Simpson explaining his approach. All these works are presented and explored with full color commissioned photography, drawn plans and original sketches throughout. John Simpson Architects believes that Classicism can enhance life in the 21st century by creating inspirational spaces that relate to the proportions of the human body - a view of architecture that is triumphantly demonstrated in the Academy that is the Walsh Family Hall.

Clive Aslet is an award-winning writer and journalist, acknowledged as a leading authority on architecture. His many books include The American Country House and The Edwardian Country House, both published by Yale University Press. Clive writes for newspapers and often broadcasts on television and radio. He is married with three children and lives in London and Ramsgate.