Architectural history follows a canon of both traditional and
eclectic styles from ancient to contemporary times. But what
happens when a mix of whimsy, eccentricity, humor—and
sometimes the creator's genius—insert themselves into the
mix? Occurring throughout time and in various parts of the
world, these unconventional structures exist to serve the
cultures they were created for, from ancient religious sites to
modern car-culture merriment. This course explores a myriad
of structures set against the backdrop of the societies in
which they existed, the construction methods used, the
patrons for whom these structures were constructed, and the
notions of the builders and architects who created them.
Eleanor Schrader is an award-winning educator, lecturer, and author. She
lectures and leads tours worldwide on art and architectural history. She has
been named a distinguished instructor at UCLA Extension, where she
teaches history of architecture, interior design, furniture, and decorative arts.
Schrader is a Professor Emerita of art and architectural history at Santa
Monica College. She has completed graduate work in fine and decorative
arts at Sotheby’s Institute in London and New York. She has served as a
design review commissioner for the City of Beverly Hills and currently serves
on the board of directors of the John Lautner Foundation