As you can image, our home library is filled with STEAM books. We especially enjoy children’s books about architects, unfortunately they are hard to find. That’s why when we do come across a great one, we love to share it. One such book and our newest addition, Curve & Flow: The Elegant Vision of L.A. Architect Paul R. Williams, is a non-fiction picture book bibliography written by Caldecott Honor–winning author, Andrea J. Loney, and illustrated by NAACP Image Award–nominated artist, Keith Mallett.
Paul R. Williams (1894-1980) had an astonishing career that spanned six decades during which he designed more than 3,000 structures in a range of architectural styles. He is perhaps best know as the “Architect to the Stars” designing homes for Hollywood’s elite, however, his portfolio also includes affordable homes; public housing; civic, commercial, and institutional buildings; and historical landmarks. After being orphaned at the age of four, he was raised by friends of the family. From an early age, he loved to draw buildings and wanted to become an architect. Above all, he dreamt of designing his own home. Set in the 1900s, the story follows the numerous obstacles and challenges that Paul faced on his journey to breaking down the walls of racism and realizing his dreams. As written in the book, he “was able to curve around the obstacles in his way to become a world-renowned architect.” Paul R. Williams’ inspirational spirit and pioneering career shows that with perseverance and hard work your dreams can come true. And, spoiler alert, Paul does eventually design and build his dream home for his family.
We highly recommend picking up a copy of Curve and Flow or borrowing it from your library. If you’re local, the Montgomery County Library System has copies and requesting it to be transferred to your branch is easy.
Fun Fact The font for The Beverly Hills Hotel sign is the handwriting of Paul R. Williams.
Did you know? In 1923, Paul R. Williams was the first Black architect to become a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and in 1957 he was inducted as the AIA's first Black fellow. In 2017, Paul R. Williams was posthumously awarded the AIA's 2017 Gold Medal. He is the first Black architect to receive this highest honor.
Want to learn more? We recommend the PBS documentary Hollywood's Architect: The Paul R. Williams Story.