The Lanterman House will sponsor an author talk by Lyra Kilston on Saturday, Feb. 15 at 2 p.m. at the La Cañada Flintridge Library. The talk, titled “Built for Health,” will explore how early 20th Century ideas about health impacted the evolution of architecture in sun-drenched California. 

Kilston’s talk will describe how sunlight was considered medicinal and was frequently prescribed by doctors in measured daily doses. These ideas spread into architectural designs as doctors and architects began collaborating on European sanatoriums. The results ranged from eccentric, sun-chasing devices to sleek, modernist landmarks. The trend soon began to shape residential housing and even furniture.

“It’s a pleasure to discuss historic climate cures and how they impacted architecture in the very part of California that so many health seekers flocked to,” said Kilston. “I’m grateful to be invited by the Lanterman House, which has preserved the story and artifacts of early medicine and health-oriented housing.”

Kilston is a Los Angeles-based writer who focuses on architecture, urbanism, and lesser-known histories. Her recent book, “Sun Seekers: The Cure of California” looks at three different moments in Southern California history and the many eccentric newcomers, from fervent nature-cure healers and barefoot vegetarian hermits to modern, experimental architects, who helped establish the region’s renown as a center for healthy, natural lifestyles long before the 1960s.

Seating for the lecture on Feb. 15 is offered on a first-come basis with a maximum occupancy of 50. No reservations are necessary.

The author talk is free and will be held in the library meeting room. The address is 4545 Oakwood Ave. in La Cañada Flintridge. For more information, visit www.lantermanhouse.org.