Widely renowned as a dynamic and inspired historian of architecture in the classical tradition, Professor du Prey is highly commended by top colleagues from around the world for a scholarly approach which is both intellectually rigorous and socially embedded. He is currently preparing an interactive electronic publication titled Architecture in the Classical Tradition, in which he demonstrates his innovative use of recent and emerging technologies in the service of history.
Professor du Prey is the author of five important books, several chapters and encyclopedia entries, as well as notable articles in some of the most distinguished refereed journals in the discipline. John Soane: the Making of an Architect (1982) is widely regarded as a seminal work in Soane studies. The Villas of Pliny from Antiquity to Posterity (1994), which covers architecture from antiquity to the present day, has been called “one of the most brilliant and stimulating architectural studies of recent years.” It was singled out in 1996 with an Honorable Mention by the Association of American Publishers. Professor du Prey’s most recent book, Hawksmoor’s London Churches: Architecture and Theology (2000), has likewise established a reputation as a seminal work on the subject. In recognition of his outstanding scholarly contributions, Professor du Prey was elected to the Royal Society of Canada in 2003.
Professor du Prey’s distinguished record of publication is coupled with an international reputation as an outstanding presenter, reflected in his record of over 90 invited papers delivered across Europe and the Americas. His passion and flair has also contributed to his reputation as an excellent teacher and supervisor, for which he was recognized with the ASUS Teaching Excellence Award in 1989.