The work of Bernard Maybeck has influenced generations of architects. His landmark buildings include the Palace of Fine Arts and First Church of Christ, Scientist. His emphasis on an open use of natural materials marks him as a pioneer in sustainable architecture, or ''green design.'' Maybeck's work achieves that delicate balance between historicism and modernism, and his buildings are still in use throughout several states on the West Coast and the Midwest. This book includes more than two dozen Maybeck buildings that have never been photographed in color in any other book, as well as several of his buildings that were never documented before. Architect of Elegance not only encompasses his most memorable works but also includes letters and drawings from the family archives never before seen by the general public. The foreward is written by Maybeck's granddaugther, Cherry Maybeck Nittler. Author Mark Wilson's 22 - year friendship with Bernard Maybeck's daughter - in - law, Jacomena Maybeck, gave him unique insights into the life and work of one of America's most important architects.