The Story of Ontario Architecture – Shannon Kyles

Nominee for Stephen A. Otto Award for Research and Documentation

Shannon has spent years helping people across the province understand the buildings around them, and this project really shows the depth of her knowledge and her passion for sharing it.

Her book lays out Ontario’s architectural history in a way that’s clear, engaging, and genuinely fun to read. She covers everything from early Indigenous structures to modern design, always connecting the buildings to the people and stories behind them. It’s thorough without ever feeling heavy, and it’s the kind of resource that makes you look at your own community differently.

What really stands out is how accessible she makes the subject. Whether someone is a student, a homeowner, or just curious, Shannon gives them the tools to recognize and appreciate the architecture they see every day. That kind of understanding is often what sparks interest in preservation, which lines up perfectly with ACO’s mission. The Story of Ontario Architecture is a resource that will keep helping people for years, and it reflects Shannon’s long commitment to teaching, documenting, and celebrating Ontario’s built heritage.