The non-profit Michigan Architectural Foundation helps the public understand, evaluate, and enjoy architecture and recognize the importance of the built environment. To that end MAF sifted through nearly 500 of Michigan’s most architecturally significant buildings to winnow the list for this volume to 150. With photographs by Balthazar Korab and text by John Gallagher, this book will be indispensable for anyone wanting to learn more about Michigan’s impressive architectural legacy.

In addition to icons like the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing, and the Fisher Building in Detroit, this volume includes vernacular charms like the D. H. Day Farm near Sleeping Bear Dunes, architectural survivors like the Point Betsie Lighthouse, and some thirty-five private homes. A spirited collection of churches, theaters, office towers, stadiums, and government buildings rounds out the selections. The emphasis throughout is to help the public see, understand, and appreciate what makes these buildings great. Gallagher has foresworn technical jargon in favor of easily readable text that evaluates each building in its public context, in terms of what it means for real people.

The combination of Korab’s artful yet documentary photographs, Gallagher’s evocative yet concise descriptions, and an elegant and clear design make this book one to be treasured for years to come.