Legacy traces the history of AC Martin’s third generation through the eyes of architect David C. Martin, design principal of the iconic Los Angeles-based firm from 1984-2016. David addresses the transition of the practice’s culture, philosophy, and sense of craftsmanship across the generations, and provides anecdotal accounts of the adventurous experiences that graced his 50-year career. It is a very personal expression of his life and work. Throughout Legacy, David provides details about what inspires him and what informs his creative process. Many of the projects described in the book feature David’s watercolor sketches. He often used this medium to illustrate the conceptual phases of the firm’s projects, and he still sets aside time to paint every day. David informally addresses design briefs, client relationships, serendipitous situations, and the great satisfaction of being a member of a multigenerational team. The book’s epilogue contains a chronology of important AC Martin projects, as well as David’s acknowledgement of those who supported him along the way—notably, his cousin and business partner, Christopher C. Martin, and the significance of his leadership as managing partner of the firm. Together, they were awarded the American Institute of Architects Los Angeles Chapter’s Presidential Gold Medal for their major contributions to the built environment in the City of Los Angeles. All proceeds from Legacy benefit MADWORKSHOP, a nonprofit organization co-founded by David and his wife, Mary, to support students, makers, artists, and architects in the realization of socially valuable design projects. More information can be found at madworkshop.org. "The work of David Martin and AC Martin are inextricably linked to the restless and forward-facing history of architecture and development in Los Angeles. It is a city that created many of the most ambitious and inventive architectural forms and spaces, and David’s work with AC Martin has been at the very center of that energetic culture of invention and creativity.   Whether at the scale of the skyline-defining Korean Air Tower or working with his MADWORKSHOP on provocative and experimental projects, David is an architect whose sensibilities and design talents span the widest range of scales and programs. It is a rare talent to have, and in David’s hands is an approach and dedication to a practice that continues to grow a legacy of accomplishment for individuals, for cities, and for the future."  —Michael Maltzan, FAIA, Design Principal, Michael Maltzan Architecture As design principal of Los Angeles-based firm AC Martin, architect David C. Martin furthered his family’s legacy of major involvement in the civic vitality of Southern California. When David joined the firm in 1966, he ushered in the third generation of the family business.   David is an award-winning designer who has been recognized for his innovative, inspirational, and cutting-edge projects. Over a 50-year career, his body of work spanned commercial facilities, academic institutions, spiritual spaces, and community buildings, many featuring engaging plazas and public art. His final project with the firm was Wilshire Grand Center, a 75-story hotel and office complex in the heart of downtown Los Angeles that incorporates all of the qualities David values in an architectural experience—inspiring, imaginative, creative, functional, has a spirit, and is both a good place to work and an exciting place to play.   In 2015, David and his wife, Mary, co-founded the Martin Architecture and Design Workshop (MADWORKSHOP), a nonprofit organization that supports students, makers, artists, and architects in the realization of socially valuable design projects. Its fellowship and education programs nurture thinkers to make visionary, sustainable, and lasting contributions to the design discourse and society at large. The foundation offers emerging designers the opportunity to freely explore their ideas from inspiration to reality.   David is a member of the Board of Councilors of the USC School of Architecture, a member of ArtCenter College of Design’s Board of Trustees, a past president of the Southern California Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and a former board member of AIA California and the Los Angeles Conservancy.