ARCHITECT

by Don Lohnes

ARCHITECT takes place primarily in Nova Scotia with a few projects outside the Province. It involves friendship, a family tragedy, construction, schools, the practice of architecture, marriage, family, a court case and an attempted murder.

300 pages, Paperback

First published January 11, 2022

About the author

Don Lohnes is a retired Nova Scotia architect with 37 years of professional experience, including leading his own firm and serving twice as president of the Nova Scotia Association of Architects. A Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, he is the author of So You Want to BUILD a HOUSE and ARCHITECT.

Reviews

[Christina Holland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew the book had a compelling theme, but I wasn’t ready for the emotional rollercoaster it delivered with its twists, turns, and unexpected conflicts. From the very first chapters, I was captivated, especially since the book’s dedication set the stage perfectly.

"Architect" by Don Lohnes is a gripping novel that delves deeply into the life and career of Lonnie Donaldson. It starts with a dramatic and suspenseful scene where Lonnie is shot in a parking lot. Lohnes excels at describing settings, characters, and events with such detail that the scenes truly come alive. The portrayal of Lonnie’s shooting and the ensuing legal battles is so precise that it feels incredibly real. This attention to detail makes Lonnie’s personal and professional journey deeply engaging and keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.

To the author, I must say you did an incredible job making your readers speechless. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, swinging between joy and pain. Don’t miss the last chapter; it’s a highlight. I loved how Lonnie Donaldson’s wife, Patricia, remains a cornerstone of his personal life. Their engagement and future plans add a stable and supportive dimension to Lonnie’s story, helping him navigate the challenges he faces."Architect" skillfully combines the drama of Lonnie’s life with the intricacies of his profession, resulting in a thoroughly immersive and enjoyable read.

[Christopher Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Architect by Don Lohnes is brilliantly suspenseful, emotionally rich and profoundly thought provoking on the issue of balancing work and life in this modern day society. The lead character is sketched in the figure of Lonnie who is a (hard working) hard working and an obsessive architect with clear passion for his work but a desire to spend more tranquil days with his wife all which goes to beef up the complexity of his character. The author has a good control of the pace of the content thereby maintaining the interest of the readers in the developing storyline which is about the interaction of two different spheres in Lonnie’s life. The point where the main character is senselessly beaten up by people leaves the audience in some suspense before they settle down to view the story in different nature after a serious attack on the protagonist, Lonnie. The language of the book is unfailingly clear and contemplative in equal measure and therefore it is very enjoyable to all sorts of readers. The action mostly centers around Lonnie’s work but that is only the focus, the real reason that will ever stay with the reader is the issues of family love and unpredictability of life. Architect is an exquisite and fascinating piece of art especially for those who appreciate reading deeper but not straightforward and simplistic stories.

[Theresa Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best thing about books, especially fiction, is how they whisk readers away on unpredictable adventures without ever having to leave their reading spot. "Architect" by Don Lohnes is a perfect example of this. Lohnes takes us on a journey set in a place and culture quite different from what I’m used to, offering a wealth of new insights.

The story kicks off with a dramatic scene where Lonnie Donaldson is shot in a parking lot. Thanks to a rare medical condition called Dextrocardia situs inversus totalis, Lonnie survives the attack. This unique condition means that the bullets, aimed at his heart, missed their target, saving his life. The identity of the shooter is a twist I won’t spoil—readers will have to discover it for themselves.

This intriguing detail adds an extraordinary layer to the narrative, showcasing life’s unpredictability and the theme of betrayal. Despite the setbacks and challenges Lonnie faces, his passion for architecture and commitment to making a significant impact through his work remain strong. Lohnes skillfully blends drama with professional success, making "Architect" a gripping read about resilience and dedication, even when life doesn't go as planned.

[Sophia Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Architect by Don Lohnes is a book that has particularly stayed with me because of my profession as a teacher. I can identify with the way Lonnie Donaldson’s passion for his work is molded. The accuracy and thoroughness with which the pre-bid documents are co-ordinated, is the same level of effort that we advocate for in the class rooms. What I really found remarkable was the notion of being ‘overworked’ and ‘underpaid’ is brought out in exactly the right portions, so as not to take away focus from the work one enjoys, which is something I try to teach my students. At the same time, I empathized with him - the idea of going on more trips with his wife or enjoying the company of his children often stated someone’s bigger aspiration of being able to withdraw from work every once in a while. I was greatly startled at the sudden occurrence of violence at the last paragraph of the chapter. It also efficiently reminded me that no matter how comfortable one may be living in a constant state, change can occur within a split second. This book is not only about designing and constructing buildings; It speaks of people and the dilemmas that they encounter. Any reader seeking an engaging and inspiring storyline should read this book without fail.

[Richard Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately drawn to the professional aspects of Architect by Don Lohnes. The work-related features of Architect appealed to me most of all. The mention of project timelines, preparing the pre-bid documents, overcoming engineering disputes – all of this seemed almost like home. Lonnie’s love-hate relationship with his job, despite it being extremely boring sometimes, spoke to me. The challenges of the management of a government project, handling the expectations of the parties involved, avoid altering the scope of works – those things are very real in our practice. Still, the narrative depicted the challenges of an architect in a way that made sense - the impact on
personal life, the aspirations geared towards a much quieter and simpler existence regardless of the profession involved. I give credit to the author for the ability to juxtapose technical matters with the anguish that comes with practicing architecture. It is not common to come across a book that appreciates the two extreme ends of architecture, the working and living sides of it, in a comprehensive manner. Architect is a narration which, I believe, every architect would relate to in some way, illustrating both the delights and difficulties of the profession.

[Donna Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Architect by Don Lohnes offers a fascinating blend of professional life and personal drama. The author effectively contrasts Lonnie’s profession of architecture with his inner aspirations and family. The detail in the working environment that includes aspects such as project management and architectural problems is elaborate and cinematic in nature and authenticates the storyline. Still, the plot development receives weight with the twist of craft in the form of an incident where Lonnie is attacked out of nowhere. The journey from the ordinary to the realistic and life threatening creates tension and keeps the reader’s attention. The characters are fleshed out, especially Lonnie, and his challenges can be understood by a majority of those in the corporate world. On the other hand, there are sections that might appear to be dragging, which may not be the case for readers who are well-acquainted with the architectural lexicon. Carrying all those out does not make it any less moving for the reason that it emphasizes how precious every moment spent with people you love is and how easily everything can fall apart. In conclusion, it is a solid and balanced story featuring both emotional and occupational elements.

[Ryan Underwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a literary critic, Architect by Don Lohnes stands out as a well-crafted book that explores the often-overlooked world of architecture and the professionals behind it. The story is effective in intertwining the work and life of Lonnie Donaldson in such a way that creates a full character whom the audience can sympathize with. What I found noteworthy was the extremely appropriate ratio of professional terminologies to human experiences connected with such practices. While the structural concerns are important and provide depth and realism to the story, they do not compete for dominance with the contemplative moments of the character Lonnie. The use of the historical context in which the narrative takes place, Set in Nova Scotia such as mentioning the VE-Day riots
is an added advantage to the story yet it is not overbearing. In terms of content structure, the work is so composed in the manner that the reader is subjected to a certain level of tension and relief at regular intervals. The feelings inhabit against his will about retirement an evident energetic aspect of dynamic narrative alongside family and work. This is not to say that it is for all, but those who appreciate intelligent, character led writing, will not be disappointed with Architect.

[Carlos Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading "Architect" has been a deeply fulfilling experience, unlike any other book I’ve encountered. I was completely immersed in Lonnie Donaldson’s story, which took me on a rollercoaster of emotions and left a lasting impression.

The narrative masterfully blends Lonnie Donaldson’s personal journey with rich historical context. The book opens in the vibrant post-World War II era, capturing the transformation of Halifax into a bustling port city and the essence of the Halifax VE-Day riots. Lohnes vividly portrays Lonnie’s childhood in Nova Scotia, emphasizing a close-knit community and strong familial bonds that shape his early years. The story is both moving and dramatic, covering significant milestones in Lonnie’s life, from his graduation and the tragic loss of his parents to his move to Halifax with his sister Margie. This new chapter is filled with both challenges and triumphs.

I highly recommend adding this book to your collection. "Architect" by Don Lohnes has truly won me over, and it would be a shame not to share this compelling story with anyone who loves a good read.

[Kathy Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don Lohnes writes in a mesmerizing style that keeps readers glued to the pages and deeply connected to Lonnie Donaldson’s life story. The book’s exploration of heavy real-life issues, such as the loss of a loved one, is one of its highlights. Lohnes’s heartfelt dedications to those who love architecture and art add a profound emotional layer.

I truly appreciate how Lohnes highlights Lonnie's interactions with key figures like his mentor, Professor Valid Lyman, and his best friend, Michael. Michael’s shift from a salesman to a prominent industry figure contrasts sharply with Lonnie's steady rise in architecture, enriching the narrative with their divergent paths. Lohnes captures the essence of their friendship and the challenges they face, providing a deep emotional core to the story.

The latter part of the book celebrates Lonnie’s professional achievements and personal milestones, especially his warm engagement and marriage to Patricia. These moments are depicted with a sense of warmth, reflecting their deep bond and shared aspirations. The narrative concludes with Lonnie’s ongoing dedication to excellence in architecture, highlighting his passion and commitment.

[Irene Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Architect – one whose profession is to design and draw up the plans for buildings, etc., and supervise their construction. Architecture – The science, art, or profession of designing and constructing buildings or other structures."

Architect by Don Lohnes offers a profound exploration of the architectural profession, highlighting the unique skills and responsibilities of architects. The book showcases how architects, with their ability to conceptualize in three dimensions, play a crucial role in designing functional and aesthetic spaces for living, working, and playing. Lohnes emphasizes the importance of understanding building materials and their applications for creating resilient structures.

The narrative also addresses the legal challenges architects can face, illustrating how they may become involved in complex legal proceedings.

Overall, Architect is more than just a read; it’s a thoughtful exploration that encourages readers to absorb and reflect on each chapter. It offers valuable insights into the profession and practical advice on applying architectural concepts to improve various aspects of life.

[Alexus Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Architect by Don Lohnes to be a very relatable book. I think I am like Lonnie Donaldson dauntless characters as he manages to meet project deadlines, cope with surprises, and many other people and projects all at once. The architectural storyline about the issues arising from the structural and electrical designs is well detailed and therefore realistic. Similarly, pre bid stage in the book took me back to the essence of winning, bidding and also the documentation – which is one of the most important aspects in a concern- that can easily sabotage the whole project with just an error or no error at all. In addition, Lonnie was also depicted as someone whose attachment to work and aspiration towards retirement were on opposing ends which was also bearable for me. Everyone anticipates that time when they will be able to no longer do anything for a long period of time. Still, the unexpected ending of the chapter builds an admirable excitement which is in sharp contrast with an architect’s routine that has a rather prosaic but busy engrossing. This book does a great job of showing both the
business and personal conflict that we experience.

[Maria Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Lonnie’s drama as presented in the Architect by Don Lohnes very interesting in relation to mental health. His attempts to integrate work-life balance while sustaining a high profile career is quintessential example of the many challenges experienced by professionals especially in risky jobs. He is preoccupied with work – to the extent of being a perfectionist – and carries a heavy burden of duty. Such characteristics depict a man whose career is the core of his being and whose very existence however seems on the verge of collapse due to extreme work pressure. The sustained focus and subsequent loss – injury – that he suffers from transforms the emotional landscape and purpose of the plot all together. It demonstrates the impact of trauma in relations to disorganization of things as they were planned. The ambition, love, and the abrupt changes the book reveals allow one to ponder much about the ways of dealing with stress and trauma. I would highly encourage Architect for those who want to learn more about the well balanced work life and its effects on emotional state of a person.

[Samantha Neville · Rating 4 out of 5]

Architect by Don Lohnes contains elements that windows the engagement of students on various subject matters. It is a work of literature that covers a lot of ground, ranging from issues of architecture and design, to prioritizing and managing one’s time and personal life. If one were to be drawn to the character of Lonnie Donaldson, he is a hard working person, yet knows when it is the right time to pause and think. Based on the book, one could also discuss about other relevant topics such as careers in architecture and engineering, particularly for those who have an interest in STEM. In addition, the book mentions Nova Scotia and World War 2, which allows students to engage with other aspects of history which they might not be familiar with. This work I would advocate for students in the middle school to the year younger than high school, especially for the readers who like the puzzles of life and real life conquering difficulties. It is a creative fiction that indeed does not conform to the definition of a usual story promoting a certain career; instead, it imparts more about the career and the history of an individual.

[Avery Driscoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was particularly impressed about the extent of the historical setting presented in Architect by Don Lohnes. The author’s use of Halifax VE-Day Riots as a background to the narrative is quite brilliant as it places the story in a particular historical moment. I was especially intrigued by Lonnie Donaldson’s story for the way it implicitly addresses changes in the social and physical environment in places like Nova Scotia, that is, the reconstruction that followed the war. The book does not address architecture merely as an occupation or profession, but goes further to discuss already the cities’ histories and their rehabilitation post the wars. For a history buff, this picture book is a fantastic appreciation of how buildings are not only about design but about layers of history that exist and have to be built on. This layering off time has made the book, what I refer to,
as one where one is fastened into the unfolding story, and yet is also able to live in a different time, one that is brimming with history. It is for this reason, among others, that I would recommend it to those who want to learn about the history and not merely the progression of events in chronicled time.

[Steven Iverson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Architect by Don Lohnes particularly interesting as a person working in urban planning. Besides, Lonnie Donaldson is an architect, a profession that easily connects with the work urban planners do, and so it is great to come across a book that appreciates the dynamics of our professions. The situations Lonnie encounters such as having to resolve a structural and electrical interference, preparing a pre-bid coordination meeting, will be one every person who has dealt with city planning and more so, infrastructure, knows well. However, it is not only about the technicalities, the emphasis is modified to illustrate how the creation of centers is focused on, which is one of the things in relation to urban studies. The historical context on the development of Nova Scotia after the War enriches the plot by illustrating the changing interaction between people and the geography of the cities. In addition, this book examines both the social and professional aspects of engagements faced by architects and urban planners, which every person who cares about the making of cities will find quite interesting.

[Dennis Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Architect" by Don Lohnes is a captivating read for anyone interested in architecture. It follows the fictional journey of Lonnie Donaldson, who transitions from a peaceful childhood in Lunenburg County to becoming a renowned architect in Halifax. The book beautifully portrays Lonnie’s early life by the LaHave River and his strong bond with a neighbor. A family tragedy forces him to move to Halifax, where he meets his future wife and discovers his love for architecture.

Lonnie’s career path is intriguing, as he progresses through various roles before starting his own firm with a partner. Their big break comes when they win a design competition for a Halifax stadium. But the story takes a dramatic turn with a lengthy lawsuit and an attempted murder during construction, adding a thrilling twist.

I found the book’s rich details and dramatic plot twists really engaging. Even though this is my first time reading Lohnes, his writing style completely captivated me. It’s an awesome book that kept me hooked from start to finish!

[Victor Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Architect" by Don Lohnes is a treasure for aspiring architects and anyone interested in the field. The book offers an in-depth look at the architectural profession, covering everything from the educational path to the practical challenges in the industry. Lohnes explores key elements of architectural practice, including design, construction, project management, and the use of technology like computer-aided drafting (CAD). This detailed overview is especially useful for students and early-career architects who want to understand the practical side of the profession.

Lohnes not only provides technical insights but also weaves in stories of resilience and achievement through Lonnie Donaldson’s career, making "Architect" both an engaging read and a practical guide.

I was hooked from start to finish, and reading this book left me feeling more confident and content. Kudos to Don Lohnes for crafting such a well-written novel that offers a slice of life in the world of architecture.

[Todd Chambers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always believed that a book reflects its writer's innermost being, and "Architect" by Don Lohnes is a perfect example of this. Lohnes pours his heart into this masterpiece, and it shows in the way his words and architectural expertise come alive. It's clear how much devotion went into crafting this story.

"Architect" offers a gripping exploration of conflict in Lonnie Donaldson's life, blending professional, personal, and interpersonal challenges. Professionally, Lonnie faces intense stress from a lawsuit involving his firm, triggered by a controversial decision to change a supplier for a major project. This legal battle threatens the firm’s future and adds significant tension to his career. On a personal level, Lonnie's life is marked by trauma when his estranged friend Michael Whynott, driven by resentment, attempts to murder him. Lonnie's survival, thanks to his rare medical condition, adds a dramatic layer to his struggles.

Despite its simplicity, the drama and narration in this novel are timeless. I have no doubt that this book is destined to be a blockbuster.

[Marilyn Figuero · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Architect" by Don Lohnes is an insightful and captivating novel that truly engages readers. It’s a must-read!

What I particularly enjoyed is how the book concludes with a powerful resolution that wraps up the main character’s professional and personal struggles. Despite surviving a dramatic attempt on his life, Lonnie successfully navigates the legal battle with Space Age Seating, though the details are minimal. His relationship with Patricia stands out as a stable and supportive anchor amid the chaos, demonstrating the strength of their bond. Even after a traumatic betrayal by a significant character of the story, Lonnie's passion for architecture and commitment to his work shine through, underscoring his determination to overcome adversity.

Overall, the book has the potential to move readers and stands out with a clear path to success. You’re doing yourself a disservice if you don’t pick up this book, especially if you enjoy novels that truly come to life. I highly recommend it!

[Ezequiel Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Architect by Don Lohnes is a story of more than just an architect. It offers great values like problem solving, managing one’s time well and being responsible – qualities which we try t instill in our students. Lonnie undertakes many roles at the same time – whether it is mediating an engineering dispute or having to take care of something personal; it was just like that aspect of a teacher where one has to plan lessons, grade and still attend to the students. What I found most profound was the fact that the book successfully manages to illustrate that regardless of how well laid plans may be, circumstances can change unexpectedly. Lonnie himself gets shot and it was so sudden that I couldn’t shake off how there are risks of sudden changes even for those who are ready. The plot also serves as a warning of keeping one’s wits about the present and appreciating the bonds they have with kith and kin. This is a book I would recommend to anyone in search of some lessons on not just willingness to fight but finding a way to stay afloat.

[Louis Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always try to have my nieces and nephews pursue their goals but remind them that their targets should also include their wellness. I had a different lens in which I viewed that balance, thanks to reading Architect. The working life of Lonnie is one full of ups and downs, which are many but what stood out for me the most was him with Patricia where he envisions the two of them in retirement. His work life has taken most of his time, which I could understand the more so for flying places and working on with different people. He has strong ethical values toward work, but the importunate ambush struck me how suddenly everything stops or takes a totally different course. It’s a deep narrative that helps us believe more in our abilities and dreams but also emphasizes love and the necessity of loved ones in our lives. I would say this to anyone who has doubts about how success is not only based on your accomplishments in the given profession but also on the people you manage to fit in your life.

[Eleanor Ellington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being an engineer, I appreciated how well Architect paid attention to detail as far as the technical aspects are concerned. The book succeeds in showing the realities of undertaking infrastructure projects. I understood the struggle that came along with him role as an administrator who was in charge of controlling the pre-bid documents and other engineering works directed by other engineers. I was able to relate to the issue of coordinating all the pieces, from the electrical components to the load-bearing parts.

Whilst it is not an engineering story per say, it effectively portrays the team work that exists in big projects. It was however accommodating to see how well these two inseparable aspects of Lonnie’s life flowed; his profession and thoughts away from work. One of the issues that the story addressed was the pressure that work places on family life, which is familiar to many people working in such demanding professions. As a conclusion, this is a narrative that is interesting, but equally, it shows the practical side of architecture and engineering.

[Joshua Travers · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I may not know much about architecture or engineering, I still say that Architect by Don Lohnes was a good book. Any person who has worked for a long period of time and remembers the joys and sadness of family associations can appreciate the arc of Lonnie Donaldson’s story. There are sections that go into the fold of the narrative, dealing with architectural designs, much to my surprise, they were not too much or too serious for comprehension. Rather, they were essential in establishing the veracity of Lonnie’s character. I also liked the setting of Nova Scotia, especially the mention of VE- Day riots which made the story even more interesting. What I found most interesting in the book was Lonnie’s musings about retirement and being at home with family. It gave me an insight into how we all tend to seek some kind of equilibrium between our careers and the pursuit of more significant interests. In any case, it is a decent story even if design is not the central point of your concern.

[Elizabeth Nottingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the historical aspects of Architect interesting. The trajectory of Lonnie Donaldson covers almost all significant historical events including the Halifax VE-Day riots which took place in 1945. Although this book mainly discusses Lonnie’s profession, which is that of an architect, these historical allusions anchor the narration to a given period and location. I however found it interesting that the author used history to develop the background of the story, and help the readers understand the environment where the characters reside and work. The years following the war, especially in Provinces like Nova Scotia came with their own challenges, and that experience is delicately illustrated in this book as having an effect on the characters. It’s a discreet yet powerful touch that reminds us how the present is anchored on the past, and it avails a different perspective to the narrative. Rather than mere contemporary storytelling, Architect by Don Lohnes offers history buffs so much more.

[Matthew Yancey · Rating 5 out of 5]

For me, personally, as a project manager this quite resonated with me - Architect. There are many project managers who would relate with the story of Lonnie Donaldson. The struggle between different teams, bringing different components of a project together, dealing with additional surprises I find relatable to my everyday life. What I found most striking is how Lonnie is able to keep his composure under pressure. He appreciates that there is always a race against time, his story however also defined whose time management is secondary, but a relationship management – be it to colleagues or even to distant relatives. The author vividly portrays the intricacies of mega projects, but also reminds the audience that project managers like Lonnie are indeed normal beings. Its portrayal of Technical as well as personal aspects of the theme enhances the other character of Lonnie which is enjoyable for the audience who are in management and appreciate the conflict between work and family time.

[Jonathan Eversley · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of history, what made Architect a pleasant surprise was its deft use of historical events in the storyline. The setting of the story in Nova Scotia alongside mentioning the VE-Day rioting incites a very interesting aspect of history that makes the narrative to be placed somewhere in a certain period. I also liked how the narrative meshed with history instead of prioritizing most of the text to be historical accounts of the characters. These events, however, are also seen in the narrative of Lonnie Donaldson which anchors this story into a relatable space and time. The aspect of architectural features also enthralled me because it made me understand how the history is found in the buildings that surround us as well as how the arts can be an embodiment of the particular period of their construction. For history enthusiastic readers who do not support over drama of history in the book, Architect because it offers just the right amount of historical background that aids the progression of the story without overshooting into the story.

[Jacob Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Architect is an essential and interesting book to have in the library. This is because it is not every day that one reads a book that compartmentalizes work and self candidness quite well, and such a book is quite ideal for readers who do not settle for mere storytelling. Even though Lonnie Donaldson’s career as an architect features within the story, such is the concern with greater issues, that is, what one leaves behind and the place of family versus one’s contributions into the present. Also, I believe that the book would appeal to readers of historical fiction especially with post war development in Nova Scotia being a backdrop in the narrative. As for me, I would like to suggest this book for the readers who search for fiction books that has character development involving some sort of a change in the protagonist as well as readers who are interested in fresh and fascinating occupations. It is a multi dimensional book that would reach out to many different types of readers therefore deserves a space in the library.

[Judith Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Architect by Don Lohnes offered valuable insights into the world of architecture, a field closely related to my own studies. Although aspects of Lonnie Donaldson’s work, such as using architectural designs and supervising the progress of works being completed, were more or less comfortable, it was captivating to observe how these activities were performed practically. Also, the book highlighted the fact that architects, engineers, and contractors need to work in unison, which is familiar to me from the classroom. One of the things that I liked about the book was the harmonious inclusion of the intricacies of drawing up engineering designs with a narration of the life of the protagonist, Lonnie. Architect demonstrated to me the reality of working on mega structures for engineering students and the industry is like equity – full of peril, yet full of promise as well. This provides a balance that assured me, even though technical capabilities are key, communication and working together to achieve a common objective is paramount in making the project take form.

[Dylan Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was exposed to interesting aspects of the architectural field, particularly, how practitioners such as Lonnie Donaldson view their profession. In this case, focusing on the career of Lonnie, the book effectively demonstrates the issue of branding and reputation management, with the latter being particularly critical. But in my field which is marketing, we deal with the narrative that comes with the brand or brand and – product, so it was amazing to follow as Lonnie’s case of forward integration took shape, both internally and externally. The author clearly indicates that only creating an end product, like how it is in marketing, is not what architecture or anything related to design inscription entails, it involves people, process and the influence on other people. It is an excellent book for every individual in a creative field and appreciates work ethic and leisure and the role of narrative in a career. It is a very good introspection on how one is remembered and on the worth of their work.

[Bobby Wade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don Lohnes delivers a beautifully authentic story in "Architect," blending realistic portrayals of life with genuine emotion.

The book provides a detailed look into Lonnie Donaldson's journey into architecture. I love how Lohnes traces Lonnie's early fascination with construction through his formal education at Saint Mary’s University and Nova Scotia Technical College. The narrative covers Lonnie’s professional growth, from his work with Redding Construction to major projects like a ten-story office building in Dartmouth. Lohnes also delves into Lonnie’s personal life, focusing on his long-term relationship with Patricia, whom he eventually marries, and the unexpected twists that arise along the way. The balance between technical details of Lonnie's career and the emotional depth of his personal life makes the story engaging and well-rounded.

I highly recommend this book. It’s a compelling read that combines professional insights with heartfelt moments.