The McGill University Coat of Arms, still in use today, stands as a lasting graphic contribution by Percy Erskine Nobbs. A Scottish-Canadian architect and fencer, he spent the majority of his professional life in Montreal, leaving an indelible mark on the Canadian architectural landscape through institutional commissions and his advocacy for the Arts and Crafts movement.
Early Education and Academic Tenure
Born in Haddington in 1875, Nobbs received his foundational training at the Edinburgh Collegiate School and the University of Edinburgh. He arrived at McGill University in 1903 to serve as the director of the School of Architecture, a role he held for a decade. During his tenure, he secured permission to continue his private practice, which allowed him to bridge the gap between academic theory and institutional building projects.
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Nobbs championed the concept of building for both prospect and aspect, prioritizing site orientation and window placement alongside external aesthetics. His portfolio includes a wide array of residential and commercial designs, often developed in partnership with George Taylor Hyde, Cecil Burgess, or David Robertson Brown. Notable structures such as the University Club on Mansfield Street and the Hartt Shoe Store on St. Catherine Street West exemplify his influence on Montreal's built environment. Additionally, he contributed to the University of Alberta master plan and designed the Provincial College of Medicine alongside Cecil S. Burgess.
Institutional Projects and Commemorative Design
His work at McGill University remains a significant portion of his legacy, encompassing the Power House, the Strathcona Medical Building, the Pathology Building, and the Pulp & Paper Research Institute. Nobbs also led remodeling efforts for the MacDonald Engineering Building and the University Library. Beyond campus architecture, his projects included the Percival Molson Memorial Stadium, the McCord Stewart Museum, and the Royal Montreal Curling Club. His design work extended to interior programs, such as the decorative elements for Currie Hall at the Royal Military College of Canada.
Athletics and Professional Distinctions
Outside of architecture, Nobbs maintained a committed interest in fencing and sport. He authored Fencing Tactics and Salmon Tactics, reflecting his expertise in both disciplines. His professional standing was formally recognized through his election to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts in 1920. He also served as president of the Quebec Association of Architects, the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, and the Town Planning Institute of Canada. He passed away in Montreal in 1964 and was later designated a Person of National Historic Significance.
Fast facts
- Born: 1875, Haddington
- Died: 1964, Montreal
- Primary Occupation: Architect
- Notable Membership: Royal Canadian Academy of Arts
- Notable Work: Percival Molson Memorial Stadium
- Notable Work: McCord Stewart Museum
- Notable Work: Royal Montreal Curling Club
- Recognition: Person of National Historic Significance
Questions readers ask
What was the core principle of Nobbs' architectural style?
He emphasized building for both prospect and aspect, focusing on the careful siting and orientation of a building rather than just its visual appearance.
Which major university campus did Nobbs help plan?
Nobbs and Frank Darling designed the master plan for the University of Alberta during 1909 and 1910.
Achievements
- Notable work: McCord Stewart Museum
- Notable work: Percival Molson Memorial Stadium
- Notable work: Royal Montreal Curling Club
- Member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts
- Person of National Historic Significance
- Trained at University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Collegiate School
