Enduring Influence: French Architecture in a Contemporary Practice

Please join us for an engaging lecture with Andrew Skurman of Skurman Architects, a renowned classical architect, as he traces how French traditions—Beaux-Arts rigor and hôtel particulier planning—continue to influence his contemporary work. Mr. Skurman will present the concepts behind his French-inspired projects, from limestone façades to wrought-iron balconies and finely paneled boiseries, demonstrating that French classicism is not a matter of nostalgia, but a living discipline attuned to modern life.

The evening will conclude with a reception and book signing.

This event is presented by the ICAA New England in partnership with the French Heritage Society.

Andrew Skurman

Andrew Skurman began his career in Architecture as an apprentice at the firm of I.M. Pei & Partners. Finding early and growing success with large international firms, Skurman also developed a private passion for classical architecture. In 1992 he made that passion his life’s work when he founded his firm, Skurman Architects. Skurman brings new projects to life all at once, by hand, at his drafting desk. He is in constant touch with clients during this initial design phase, realizing their dreams in the classical traditions of France, England and the Mediterranean. Perhaps Skurman’s most powerful design tool is his extensive library of classical buildings and details. Carefully mined to inspire each project, the library provides precedent for the new houses he creates. This ensures that while it has been newly imagined to suit the needs of the client, Skurman’s work stands seamlessly beside buildings from a century ago.

Skurman has received the honor of being named a Chevalier of Arts & Letters by the Minister of Culture of France. He also served as creative director of the landmark San Francisco Fall Show from 2008-2013. His firm has won seven coveted Julia Morgan awards from the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art for outstanding individual projects. In 2020, the ICAA recognized Skurman Architects with the Arthur Ross Award for lifetime achievement.

Skurman Architects published a monograph of their work, Contemporary Classical in 2012 with Princeton University Press. The firm released a second book, The Watercolors of Skurman Architects by Clive Aslet, published by Triglyph Books in May of 2025.