An internationally recognized architect known for incorporating Rocky Mountain design elements in his architecture will be the guest speaker at the College of the Rockies Nov. 17 for a lecture sponsored by the Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook (CLC).

Jeremy Sturgess will speak at 7 PM in the Rm. 250 large lecture theatre and will take questions after his address.

Sturgess is well-known for dealing with urban design and planning issues in Calgary and is considered to have transformed the face of the city with such well known projects as the Calgary Water Centre, the Grand Theatre, and the most recent downtown LRT stations.

He is also known as a proponent of density in urban neighourhoods and projects to restore and revitalize old neighbourhoods. A recent limited edition book "Full Spectrum" celebrates his life and career.

CLC spokeswoman Sharon Cross said after researching Sturgess's work on line and seeing his book, she decided he would be the perfect person to speak on planning issues in Cranbrook.

"He's our man," she said, adding Sturgess is also known for his ideas on sustainable architecture.

Sturgess was born in Montreal but raised in Toronto where he got a degree in architecture at the U of T. After graduation, he moved west to Calgary where he has been helping to shape its skyline ever since. His influence is widely felt throughout the beltline area of Calgary where he has contributed to an increased level of urbanization by supporting high-density sustainable redevelopment. 

In 1993, Sturgess was elected a member of the Royal Canadian Academy and since 2002 has been an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Environmental Design at the University of Calgary

"We are truly fortunate that someone of his calibre is coming to speak to us," said CLC member Tara Gillanders.

Sturgess specializes in regionally appropriate architecture such as the use of Rocky Mountain design elements as well as exploring the use of colour and unique shapes. He is interested in environmentally sustainable design and the sociology of architecture.  

The Alberta architect is also concerned with how buildings relate to people and how they can help foster community.  He is known for the redevelopment of the old General Hospital site, the Connaught Gardens housing development in Edmonton, the Alberta Pavilion at EXPO86, the Calgary Water Centre, and the redesign of downtown LRT stations as well as many other public and private buildings.