Jack Davis

There are cities in the world that are singularly memorable for their iconic architecture, rich culture, religious significance, poetic landscape or other noteworthy and valuable qualities. A few combine one or two of those and are even more significant. Cathi and Steven House however, have revealed a place that is a rich tapestry with all of those qualities and more, in their exquisite book; San Miguel de Allende: the soul of Mexico. The writings and incredible photographs capture a timeless ‘place,’ made up of its people, sense of community and cultural intensity that is both poetic and photogenic. Following the forward by Tony Cohan, which sets the stage for the reader about the magic inherent in this town, the House’s have extensively woven a work of art composed from the warp of people and their festive activities with the weft of art, architecture and ceremony. The published product is as colorful and rich as the personal and civic threads woven into this place. The House’s are careful not to make the book about their contributions to this magical place. Even though their contributions in art, architecture and education to San Miguel de Allende are significant, they emphasize the palette of people and cultural diversity that lays the foundation for a place where a visitor or inhabitant sees time, in itself a unique quality, captured in its beautiful past, present and progressive future. This book is to be savored. Take your time and follow its imbedded leads. This book reveals this place as a rich tapestry that is both ancient and contemporary. Never has that been brought together for enjoyment better than in, San Miguel de Allende: the soul of Mexico. Jack Davis, FAIA LEED AP Dean Emeritus and Reynolds Metals Professor Emeritus School of Architecture Virginia Tech