Alberto Alfonso, René González, Chad Oppenheim, and Guy Peterson—The Florida Four—are making a mark for themselves in contemporary architectural circles, infusing modernist traditions with their own flair. Practitioners of modernism in Florida—or, more accurately, tropical modernism—they are producing noteworthy works that display their commitment to distinctive regionalism. This book is the first to showcase their rich and varied repertoires.

Toshiko Mori, FAIA, principal of Toshiko Mori Architect and the former chair of the Department of Architecture at Harvard University Graduate School of Design, says of the book: “The architecture of Alfonso, Gonzáles, Oppenheim, and Peterson testifies to the fact that modern architecture is not a style but a way of life. In their work, modernism evolves into a lyrical language. With informality, sensuousness, and relaxed atmospheres, their buildings thrive in the strong light and lush landscape of Florida. The strength of expression and primacy of geometry still exist as heroic gestures, but the possibility of intimacy in modernism as demonstrated by their work has never before been achieved. Their work goes beyond mere ideology and style. The buildings exist in harmony with their site and climate, mutating the tradition of modern into a melodic relationship between architecture and nature.”