Identity area
Type of entity
Authorized form of name
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Description area
Dates of existence
History
John Y. McCarter (b. 1886- d.1981) and George C. Nairne's (b. 1884-d. 1953) long-lived design firm was responsible for numerous buildings in Vancouver, including two of the city's first skyscrapers: the Medical Dental Building (1928-9, demolished 1988), and the landmark Marine Building (1928-30, still standing).
They are known as one of the most important Vancouver architectural firms in their period. Their buildings reveal a willingness to experiment with modern architectural styles. Both the Medical Dental Building and the Marine Building, for instance, exemplify the Art Deco style. The firm’s experience with this style is reflected in the design of the Grant Building. They are also noted for their use of the Modern Gothic style, elements of which are reflected in the Nixon Building.
Although they are best known for their Vancouver projects, McCarter Nairne first met in the Victoria offices of Thomas Hooper, where McCarter trained and Nairne worked for a period of time. Hooper’s offices moved to Vancouver during their time with him.
In part because of the support of government contracts, the firm continued working through the 1930s and the war years. Canadian Services College Royal Roads is among their significant projects.
The two original partners’ final project was Vancouver’s modernist General Post Office (1952-58). The firm continued operation under a series of partners until 1982.
Places
Vancouver, Victoria
Legal status
Corporate body
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Internal structures/genealogy
General context
This firm designed both the Grant and Nixon Blocks.