The award was announced at a ceremony that took place at the Zaha Hadid Foundation in Clerkenwell on the 12th July.
It has been announced that Master of the House – The Theatres of Cameron Mackintosh, written by Michael Coveney and featuring a forward by Cameron Mackintosh, has won the first Architectural History Book of the Year award.
Published in October 2022 through Unicorn Publishing Group, the book explores the history behind his refurbished eight historic London buildings, from their origins, their iconic shows and productions, the stars and of course the role in which they have played in the development of British theatre. The book also contains images from the Delfont Mackintosh archive as well as original architect plans and drawings, specially commissioned photographs of the refurbishment and show posters.
Michael Coveney has written about theatre as editor of Plays and Players magazine and staff critic, successively; on the Financial Times, the Observer and the Daily Mail. Talking about the news he said: “I am delighted that the award honours the story I was charged with telling: Cameron’s thirty-year campaign to refurbish, rebuild and restore eight glorious theatres, rendering them not only beautiful, comfortable and exquisitely decorated but also resoundingly fit for modern purpose. This amazing campaign was sustained by a first-class team of builders, artisans, plaster craftsmen and painters, led by architect Julian Middleton and interior designer Clare Ferraby. The book has been beautifully produced, too, by Unicorn, and is illustrated from the treasure trove that is Cameron’s archive, superbly maintained by Rosy Runciman, without whom the book would not have been so good, let alone worthy of such a wonderful award.”
Meanwhile, Cameron Mackintosh said: “Michael’s wonderful commentary on the history of the West End is full of funny and witty observations, informed by the critical eye of a sharp and seasoned critic, who has seen many of the great and not so great productions of the last 50 years. This book is as fun to read as it is as beautiful to look at in this superbly curated compendium which makes me very proud of what my team have achieved to ensure that these unique and dazzlingly designed theatres will play host to the greatest productions, artists and applauding audiences for at least another 100 years!”
To buy the book click here.