Lutyen's British Embassy: Main Stair

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxZ2lukBgcI9KZGOjmgQ36H1Zaur_TBqo-SmlxkDtaalqAGMEir24bp9gkCq6IuJOTylxkGIP7lnuRkIQ0iijYOvTvWgdMyB3AKG2UiDHcWRvrUJgLVp-I6PT1zqXPzU4VF7McLalfBY/s1600/railing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxZ2lukBgcI9KZGOjmgQ36H1Zaur_TBqo-SmlxkDtaalqAGMEir24bp9gkCq6IuJOTylxkGIP7lnuRkIQ0iijYOvTvWgdMyB3AKG2UiDHcWRvrUJgLVp-I6PT1zqXPzU4VF7McLalfBY/s1600/railing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The main staircase at the British Embassy was designed by Lutyens to awe all visitors and make a grand statement. The entrance to the embassy is somewhat discreet. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoNbPOO5syD00tZnsm0b3-qDOXPr1cGeHJP8vZlyvKZ6Hm5FHxwFE3KNY9xgfy59vM7N1nrU6VC0up6PsKTKq9G_IEPkwr0iN61v4gW_m6t4G8dOcw8tbF9flDWvbj7zj7akuPRUk0fk/s1600/british+embassy+floorplan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoNbPOO5syD00tZnsm0b3-qDOXPr1cGeHJP8vZlyvKZ6Hm5FHxwFE3KNY9xgfy59vM7N1nrU6VC0up6PsKTKq9G_IEPkwr0iN61v4gW_m6t4G8dOcw8tbF9flDWvbj7zj7akuPRUk0fk/s1600/british+embassy+floorplan.jpg" width="291" /></a></div>One arrives underneath a classical porte cochere in the center of the complex (underneath D on the plan above) and into the main stairhall; the residence is a piano nobile design which cleverly aids the hilly topography - but we'll get into that later.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi_HDdTCw-vRARblGeaSAezf41SZog__cOqrc8hELgpStYk68Bj2U6qNUGDisQ-FTXCCteMHW1TDXikTjqLCSMggpkbuuaO6E03HJn3YV5YJdBGwofNNfH31eOjmO5qzuF6iOb1Ta3cQ/s1600/Porte+Cochere.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi_HDdTCw-vRARblGeaSAezf41SZog__cOqrc8hELgpStYk68Bj2U6qNUGDisQ-FTXCCteMHW1TDXikTjqLCSMggpkbuuaO6E03HJn3YV5YJdBGwofNNfH31eOjmO5qzuF6iOb1Ta3cQ/s1600/Porte+Cochere.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Symmetry and classical design reign on the exterior; a rather quiet facade gradually gives way to grandeur as one enters the residence.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihS-nI7Ft2MOk3nllbvOpHGbDgz9n3bDgmtxPOjbAtr2NBj3bywBJIsSf0jPmKIqzuQRQytnLyf87LWwtK9HXwB1pFCCB7YKwAJO9VfE2-yJVGcecWq7q-XlAMY0qrbIBUAoLBwDAwWVo/s1600/Porte+Cochere+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihS-nI7Ft2MOk3nllbvOpHGbDgz9n3bDgmtxPOjbAtr2NBj3bywBJIsSf0jPmKIqzuQRQytnLyf87LWwtK9HXwB1pFCCB7YKwAJO9VfE2-yJVGcecWq7q-XlAMY0qrbIBUAoLBwDAwWVo/s1600/Porte+Cochere+detail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Many of the light fixtures throughout were custom designed - the fluorescent light bulbs are really unfortunate but do not hurt the fundamental beauty of the lantern.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAB2AHIgmpeO01oR7fZ2FaBGfqJPD3N3tZVipR4wEh6it0behFnPE7aiugVICdhp2hewrWxfjLDL-q7rSkNTpDYvIu9nGgxaIPL7nh82r5G-xxw7FihX_H77M-SCS1OOaRR3p3zSEGabo/s1600/Porte+Cochere+sconce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAB2AHIgmpeO01oR7fZ2FaBGfqJPD3N3tZVipR4wEh6it0behFnPE7aiugVICdhp2hewrWxfjLDL-q7rSkNTpDYvIu9nGgxaIPL7nh82r5G-xxw7FihX_H77M-SCS1OOaRR3p3zSEGabo/s1600/Porte+Cochere+sconce.jpg" width="287" /></a></div> Upon entering through french doors directly to one's left is a bust of the architect, Edwin Lutyens.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHGdfvCxSNy7V5fcty3v5xB1uRdaKJjWZHpCcmpotETNi6ZGGpcLhN253my28LYo_GOb-yy3FhPrnut3F03SfsQtvwrJrmXGrw3qxGDe_SXtAIOLbu9g9PaQgr_DB2v8W5ZeNUi_rviz0/s1600/stair+base+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHGdfvCxSNy7V5fcty3v5xB1uRdaKJjWZHpCcmpotETNi6ZGGpcLhN253my28LYo_GOb-yy3FhPrnut3F03SfsQtvwrJrmXGrw3qxGDe_SXtAIOLbu9g9PaQgr_DB2v8W5ZeNUi_rviz0/s1600/stair+base+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Light pours into the lower level from windows above inviting one up. Further emphasizing this ascent are the walls which turn from heavy Indiana limestone to a lighter plaster.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHv6UlRrcN2z8x0_VGLIwU2sd3Sk-qglmS4XcK_hHE1AAHDzQaK4CcIbya9h9DF-ThMVXQNhYrmhN8cOSwPkVcmKz7d2hJW_np64NYIIxtTH9YWag-5CtMIiHcroUoI7fLcMut6QBavY/s1600/landing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHv6UlRrcN2z8x0_VGLIwU2sd3Sk-qglmS4XcK_hHE1AAHDzQaK4CcIbya9h9DF-ThMVXQNhYrmhN8cOSwPkVcmKz7d2hJW_np64NYIIxtTH9YWag-5CtMIiHcroUoI7fLcMut6QBavY/s1600/landing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> I loved the cascade of the lower risers which leads one to a short landing and the cloak rooms.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5LNmC7zTUbh2sMs02pV3R0qyX12kXW2ZdZDpd6_uwemERqfak9zkQAB42dDLbBgV_dISvJSQKmlYsLLT4pClCDoXgbDCeTXuwVYvoi3I1BjSJSvyJ3P-V0Y5u8VgeQRP4WB8EdB2VWw/s1600/cascading+stair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5LNmC7zTUbh2sMs02pV3R0qyX12kXW2ZdZDpd6_uwemERqfak9zkQAB42dDLbBgV_dISvJSQKmlYsLLT4pClCDoXgbDCeTXuwVYvoi3I1BjSJSvyJ3P-V0Y5u8VgeQRP4WB8EdB2VWw/s1600/cascading+stair.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The most impressive detail of the space is the railing itself. Below is a sketch by Lutyens from early on in the design in 1925.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rYKsppcVgCgTrSwORQI7eKgOalCEFg0MuQC2nr5pzw9dTkws-CH4UiLlqIXDUcxvA7xw5CQvsomIWxWTmGG-nVZNLYzPE3_DhdRkMmdmidKWHzpLAVywfij20-JLGEVRXhuW3Vmhmf8/s1600/lutyens+original+sketch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rYKsppcVgCgTrSwORQI7eKgOalCEFg0MuQC2nr5pzw9dTkws-CH4UiLlqIXDUcxvA7xw5CQvsomIWxWTmGG-nVZNLYzPE3_DhdRkMmdmidKWHzpLAVywfij20-JLGEVRXhuW3Vmhmf8/s1600/lutyens+original+sketch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>As you can see it didn't change much. This motif graces the endpapers of the new book on the embassy as well; <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-architecture-of-diplomacy-british.html">The Architecture of Diplomacy</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQJSEzREgfcsFZ61a0ZlWlPO0Yj3NvQKNE_KJ-qJcpfk6g_be1Z7MpKVrYktXTuLKRdAd2HF2Pe3_cIFOd2pi2GzYZleLM56xOvNfug8brJoKebrOv14ZVkwezd9P7sAJYHJ7iDjzxxE/s1600/Lutyens+stairrail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQJSEzREgfcsFZ61a0ZlWlPO0Yj3NvQKNE_KJ-qJcpfk6g_be1Z7MpKVrYktXTuLKRdAd2HF2Pe3_cIFOd2pi2GzYZleLM56xOvNfug8brJoKebrOv14ZVkwezd9P7sAJYHJ7iDjzxxE/s1600/Lutyens+stairrail.jpg" width="293" /></a></div> I love the furnished landings and I'll again point out the print gallery walls as well, installed in 2012.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQUYXfk56qVgvsEz7bRBp22Mm20YSnWIH1fJhEjAVxCMDriLhd391qOTLBY2-MvIWhwA_HuDJ8iBc1T10dlslbh9RPTv2r0VU1nseQB2BA4nz613s5AXd70ZwPu3VV9dtjSMoS7YMQF8/s1600/main+run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQUYXfk56qVgvsEz7bRBp22Mm20YSnWIH1fJhEjAVxCMDriLhd391qOTLBY2-MvIWhwA_HuDJ8iBc1T10dlslbh9RPTv2r0VU1nseQB2BA4nz613s5AXd70ZwPu3VV9dtjSMoS7YMQF8/s1600/main+run.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Symmetry is key in the stair hall as throughout the residence. The interior window below to the right opens into an interior room: the morning room. Lutyens commonly designed such interior windows into his residential projects; supposedly so children could watch the festivities during parties!  A false mirrored window stands opposite the landing to attain this perfect symmetry.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QyLbNZ-unYd10p4YeDDciJ7F7lUi8maAaXZ_iz2oLceZYo0C8GKahzuAKjQOHS4-iDSLYxLE_kuKu9qKmN9k6h2lLLzXE1wncuF0IONL-NS7CZ8tnKy_KtoklS9HZNmQXEcDtrx2l9Q/s1600/interior+window.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QyLbNZ-unYd10p4YeDDciJ7F7lUi8maAaXZ_iz2oLceZYo0C8GKahzuAKjQOHS4-iDSLYxLE_kuKu9qKmN9k6h2lLLzXE1wncuF0IONL-NS7CZ8tnKy_KtoklS9HZNmQXEcDtrx2l9Q/s1600/interior+window.jpg" width="280" /></a></div> The placement of these ginger jars is perfection.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGiQh5Q7ktmJ7LOAcDB-SOUvg_mwejRbWmUjH3p5faU20zyWm1F5Wvyuf5YpjGtYg3jbtRRAjUxmdyJqOxRE7zjtts8BLNCNpV8Y0IAozmSuLao1Ic3nRJBhE6p3qFCloEXpIKMVpwQs/s1600/green+chair+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGiQh5Q7ktmJ7LOAcDB-SOUvg_mwejRbWmUjH3p5faU20zyWm1F5Wvyuf5YpjGtYg3jbtRRAjUxmdyJqOxRE7zjtts8BLNCNpV8Y0IAozmSuLao1Ic3nRJBhE6p3qFCloEXpIKMVpwQs/s1600/green+chair+2.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>The ladies cloak room off the stairhall features Fornasetti's very stylish <a href="http://www.cole-and-son.com/en/collection-fornasetti-ii/wallpaper-97/14043/">'Teatro'</a> wallpaper -manufactured by a very British company naturally, <a href="http://www.cole-and-son.com/">Cole & Son</a>. I loved these lanterns which flanked the opening.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftaYpTO511Z4ZSJNMNa04Bw8z_JQg_yDHtBeZYQVq0zwhtootVm2Mlpkyl59ViTL9WVz0NH0C7CZBTo0Q30odkRngg0e7s_8AMNxzoPdWoyDmmSyD_Sr1Ld2VNbCsvDJfppxmJz4dLlM/s1600/Fornasetti+wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftaYpTO511Z4ZSJNMNa04Bw8z_JQg_yDHtBeZYQVq0zwhtootVm2Mlpkyl59ViTL9WVz0NH0C7CZBTo0Q30odkRngg0e7s_8AMNxzoPdWoyDmmSyD_Sr1Ld2VNbCsvDJfppxmJz4dLlM/s1600/Fornasetti+wallpaper.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>The entry to the public spaces of the residence feature ornate plaster-work as well as lovely urns on pedestals.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWCk0NS_rEF4x3vqJt8mTFvpMZG0hqChFfe4vuK_TLkfMoKZELLRHRYnIQhoJd447F8oZOryad8-7IeWpDF3q_MwOAET7S2rCdaoop6JvTuW24Dql9Um1wnlD0NapQ2aalJvchHea8CAM/s1600/cherry+blossoms+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWCk0NS_rEF4x3vqJt8mTFvpMZG0hqChFfe4vuK_TLkfMoKZELLRHRYnIQhoJd447F8oZOryad8-7IeWpDF3q_MwOAET7S2rCdaoop6JvTuW24Dql9Um1wnlD0NapQ2aalJvchHea8CAM/s1600/cherry+blossoms+2.jpg" width="296" /></a></div> A closeup of the plaster work reveals native flowers with classical figures.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_iCLXNTmcvi-yg86fxpND8Widq30hP4_oM2VsQsnuwxV1i0AghnraOKvgmZ_WEPiiyBHVs5-aJb-B7j06qP6eR2jTfn74EP619zU1crqrCLg0KugnaF7i-2PtHZ9t7JA0YOAa9I7ArY/s1600/decorative+plasterwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_iCLXNTmcvi-yg86fxpND8Widq30hP4_oM2VsQsnuwxV1i0AghnraOKvgmZ_WEPiiyBHVs5-aJb-B7j06qP6eR2jTfn74EP619zU1crqrCLg0KugnaF7i-2PtHZ9t7JA0YOAa9I7ArY/s1600/decorative+plasterwork.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Join me in following posts for more on the public spaces of the British Embassy.</div>

Lutyen's British Embassy: Main Stair

The main staircase at the British Embassy was designed by Lutyens to awe all visitors and make a grand statement. The entrance to the embass...

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The most beautiful stair in Washington: Lutyen's British Embassy

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPrAUnB51x3Yrftr0KJcFuvbrnuyok5NXmwfoagOzkpDhgoLJPTjqTvc-ASKt6j9g1RVvrFlplhuboQCAOrUeehrZyi2Yj0g4amn61QWs8tiMLV0C_WkJ7gnptf5No1BjWdpXX4b5oJA/s1600/Newel+cap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPrAUnB51x3Yrftr0KJcFuvbrnuyok5NXmwfoagOzkpDhgoLJPTjqTvc-ASKt6j9g1RVvrFlplhuboQCAOrUeehrZyi2Yj0g4amn61QWs8tiMLV0C_WkJ7gnptf5No1BjWdpXX4b5oJA/s1600/Newel+cap.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>My favorite part of the tour of the British embassy was seeing the small private stair which leads from the public rooms to the private spaces of the residence; this is probably the most beautiful stair I've seen in DC.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-wrmn7wPrFK4ustRtc8RziHWmso1HxAUMk2Da7SRUiJGl-LNpCo2kGg2KyI2yVGmVKxT0SvErQA3RB0Z-q10dB4FCm_TE0Ht7_hC6wMvKRENQULuGA9G6KpCOli8azH90YA-mcjV9po/s1600/british+embassy+staircase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-wrmn7wPrFK4ustRtc8RziHWmso1HxAUMk2Da7SRUiJGl-LNpCo2kGg2KyI2yVGmVKxT0SvErQA3RB0Z-q10dB4FCm_TE0Ht7_hC6wMvKRENQULuGA9G6KpCOli8azH90YA-mcjV9po/s1600/british+embassy+staircase.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Lutyens took particular care with his staircases as he enjoyed the drama and panache they provide to any structure. Here he took a circular stair one step further by incorporating a circle into the iron handrail.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJCyyOmjqfsjqostZegrXqe6J9ML-4e3KUiSRSE3ekRa6GEUReMxRDtCzhF1y4i2tdHZeAXpnL-NLOQuouK70M7e8SovVsnQS816ig6qzepTjA_3U_NrFJA0fnxPZSM_AVyyNk29-NxnI/s1600/british+embassy+floorplan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJCyyOmjqfsjqostZegrXqe6J9ML-4e3KUiSRSE3ekRa6GEUReMxRDtCzhF1y4i2tdHZeAXpnL-NLOQuouK70M7e8SovVsnQS816ig6qzepTjA_3U_NrFJA0fnxPZSM_AVyyNk29-NxnI/s1600/british+embassy+floorplan.jpg" width="233" /></a></div>The floorplan above shows the location of the private stair (L). The circle made for a compact stair that could fit to the side of the public circulation.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vb6sx0O5KuJYe4iaytP5YwysZtb5ikWNg2UfZ1sH9jbr367LgHW_r6WhmmNOLaJ_a0vziTcDYIFtBdNOkHWKP5EwpQaqBKNoseYOBaU4BuGClWLSgCnFupkKYw8-wb5rfGDpk8xpmDI/s1600/iron+stair+railing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vb6sx0O5KuJYe4iaytP5YwysZtb5ikWNg2UfZ1sH9jbr367LgHW_r6WhmmNOLaJ_a0vziTcDYIFtBdNOkHWKP5EwpQaqBKNoseYOBaU4BuGClWLSgCnFupkKYw8-wb5rfGDpk8xpmDI/s1600/iron+stair+railing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The treads are limestone cantilevered (in parts) from the limestone walls. To provide a graceful ascent Lutyens designed many of his stairs with very short risers and long treads.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGssvD3wWj_GTutQZdEsyRPHn8mNaeRFPkSD4cSSv6Qm40ML3aeHBmcudWlzi91XOCXbcHUNXYnrCzNYjgb-XbgZaPJHn4oItymEaxbALhpk7PvWta4WyAOM9gkx6VoFleMxbzRQwH9C4/s1600/British+Royal+Arms+banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGssvD3wWj_GTutQZdEsyRPHn8mNaeRFPkSD4cSSv6Qm40ML3aeHBmcudWlzi91XOCXbcHUNXYnrCzNYjgb-XbgZaPJHn4oItymEaxbALhpk7PvWta4WyAOM9gkx6VoFleMxbzRQwH9C4/s1600/British+Royal+Arms+banner.jpg" width="239" /></a></div> Displayed in the stairwell is this colorful silk banner of the Royal Arms once owned by William  IV.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicAMOhmIoTUfK3nE97EKkdIb2UdAt0fsxU9MZHAHe9DGMRr5r99SHlML2QC4PxJ9HBH8AXIyLR6nE-7bLsFtuQQN3qDb0kz2pc7hnP2lQ2LtA2IzxMgte8NNfXhsnhZRBs1UJIMcOUCU0/s1600/Lutyens+staircase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicAMOhmIoTUfK3nE97EKkdIb2UdAt0fsxU9MZHAHe9DGMRr5r99SHlML2QC4PxJ9HBH8AXIyLR6nE-7bLsFtuQQN3qDb0kz2pc7hnP2lQ2LtA2IzxMgte8NNfXhsnhZRBs1UJIMcOUCU0/s1600/Lutyens+staircase.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> A window on the 2nd floor allows natural light into the space.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpt2bDF1NsJfaVdbm3jIAgYITzVmjO6Z_4wq-SE6LSN300WglhThOY5finTpxifFRVzbYM2lJjdJ8MzIzwS9fYmx3KNr1HdTg3VzK2Es8gUFcSyeDmdl0ZupSPedNQQEHzQUmVBXUFic/s1600/portrait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpt2bDF1NsJfaVdbm3jIAgYITzVmjO6Z_4wq-SE6LSN300WglhThOY5finTpxifFRVzbYM2lJjdJ8MzIzwS9fYmx3KNr1HdTg3VzK2Es8gUFcSyeDmdl0ZupSPedNQQEHzQUmVBXUFic/s1600/portrait.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>A very regal portrait graces the top landing - Queen Victoria perhaps? I'll share a very different stair from the house shortly, the Grand staircase.<br /><i>Floorplan from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Architecture-Diplomacy-Ambassadors-Washington/dp/208129902X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1399753547&sr=8-1&keywords=the+architecture+of+diplomacy">The Architecture of Diplomacy, The British Ambassador's Residence in Washington</a>. Photographs are my own.</i>

The most beautiful stair in Washington: Lutyen's British Embassy

My favorite part of the tour of the British embassy was seeing the small private stair which leads from the public rooms to the private spac...

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Chapin Residence floorplan

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcspyEOYwnk3BanLXYO_tNy-6gzOB6tctabHeFDHu_n8aBDV0ZymOGKsRcpjYgeidUtMlR_-mdR3lIYOTdJQLGGzVnXv3EJppYI6-Ujy5-x4_Lj3TNDoIROgBFywyAFFnc1jp7P3xf_0/s1600/front+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcspyEOYwnk3BanLXYO_tNy-6gzOB6tctabHeFDHu_n8aBDV0ZymOGKsRcpjYgeidUtMlR_-mdR3lIYOTdJQLGGzVnXv3EJppYI6-Ujy5-x4_Lj3TNDoIROgBFywyAFFnc1jp7P3xf_0/s1600/front+door.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>One of my favorite books that I've mentioned before is the monograph of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0926494082/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=0926494082&link_code=as3&tag=archite0d-20">H.T. Lindeberg's</a> residential work. Many of his smaller projects are shown including just these 3 intriguing photographs of a rather odd house in Lake Forest, Illinois in 1926 for Lowell C. Chapin, Esq. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8QMs2F41uNcwzigPH9qR1tCSR97TvIROgR3J0kTPmANAqUFfIo1pu0hAyrWYNznshO6IW-ZfV5ur3T8nAcoGva8xqCRwBfRsHeTU4edR6QfxRNQmSzxMRKRP__ns884iYkfya6n93UA/s1600/floorplan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8QMs2F41uNcwzigPH9qR1tCSR97TvIROgR3J0kTPmANAqUFfIo1pu0hAyrWYNznshO6IW-ZfV5ur3T8nAcoGva8xqCRwBfRsHeTU4edR6QfxRNQmSzxMRKRP__ns884iYkfya6n93UA/s1600/floorplan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>If you study the plan you'll notice that the house consists of a rather small entry vestibule and an enormous living room. Thats all for public space! A warren of servants quarters fill the remainder of the first floor while the 2nd floor holds 4 bedrooms. Strange but ultimately practical.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3knToGxo3MjPAbzrD-EIbqqTeQnArEnvO2VQe710jA003pSjWDT7Y9bdEBfSA5aDHT6XQQU6kDoR-HUv9nVLoTrwL-w7pRAT73RzEsl6xLcOEAT6UWcx3C4i5sm1_drC55l16WGwA8qk/s1600/entrance+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3knToGxo3MjPAbzrD-EIbqqTeQnArEnvO2VQe710jA003pSjWDT7Y9bdEBfSA5aDHT6XQQU6kDoR-HUv9nVLoTrwL-w7pRAT73RzEsl6xLcOEAT6UWcx3C4i5sm1_drC55l16WGwA8qk/s1600/entrance+front.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>And as you can see the 'simple' house packs a lot of punch with that steep French roofline.  Rather a quirky house and it leads me to wonder how it has changed over the past 90 years or is even still extant.

Chapin Residence floorplan

One of my favorite books that I've mentioned before is the monograph of H.T. Lindeberg's residential work. Many of his smaller proj...

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Le Pavillon de Madame, Verailles

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKGkyg_I1Og0_ARky1Jq6ImOpasrUIM-eLypxcZhLN9jnmI0_Ykw1e4a41sU10qaik5QSX_2eOcaJoXmpTEysUedS9HcV7cqClXUYReEhrCkzrA2V0CdTRoazVInUW7In0F6lamGrqQAs/s1600/le+Pavillon+de+Madame+south+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKGkyg_I1Og0_ARky1Jq6ImOpasrUIM-eLypxcZhLN9jnmI0_Ykw1e4a41sU10qaik5QSX_2eOcaJoXmpTEysUedS9HcV7cqClXUYReEhrCkzrA2V0CdTRoazVInUW7In0F6lamGrqQAs/s1600/le+Pavillon+de+Madame+south+front.jpg" width="293" /></a></div>As promised here I bring you another small mansion from the book "<a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2014/01/la-lanterne-versailles.html">The smaller houses and gardens of Versailles</a>", this one simply entitled "Le Pavillon de Madame".  While the address is stated, 63 Avenue de Paris, I can't find any information about the house and according to a googlemap search it has either been torn down since 1926 or the address has changed. If anyone has any information I would appreciate learning more!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqmQrGQHSzeCnUa46ySIQt4XytLsRCUMMjbtU2kPDAsbabpvIUco4V1UQtI-exQz1Ez0YwGSCRoecTuIzsupMEmxVdvHZUsharWbaMvDP5lfYNREPABV_l4lDqoaKAhyphenhyphen9FV-QCQqrSKQ/s1600/le+Pavillon+de+madame+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqmQrGQHSzeCnUa46ySIQt4XytLsRCUMMjbtU2kPDAsbabpvIUco4V1UQtI-exQz1Ez0YwGSCRoecTuIzsupMEmxVdvHZUsharWbaMvDP5lfYNREPABV_l4lDqoaKAhyphenhyphen9FV-QCQqrSKQ/s1600/le+Pavillon+de+madame+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The house is a delightful arrangement in the French tradition in that there is no front facade and each of the 4 facades is equally attractive.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb52FGdmL96nwXhWhLD7gFIg13d5aTgBaSvaZYxBN7r3sp7cUCaxz0pOcaK3ys0zM20OBf-wDDKzQnf_ZRDGLWxr0eGplbn1jo97bsvKkm3E9WmUL9iut9MsR1ZukdgqSMPcVGYGCiWls/s1600/le+Pavillon+de+Madame+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb52FGdmL96nwXhWhLD7gFIg13d5aTgBaSvaZYxBN7r3sp7cUCaxz0pOcaK3ys0zM20OBf-wDDKzQnf_ZRDGLWxr0eGplbn1jo97bsvKkm3E9WmUL9iut9MsR1ZukdgqSMPcVGYGCiWls/s1600/le+Pavillon+de+Madame+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The exterior is a light grey painted stucco to mimic limestone with a rusticated base and quoins (corner treatment) on the upper floor. The mansard roof is slate while the beautiful dormers are of lead.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEwE1Ew4wXNuWz4pV3v6pV6HaequHE8ak-zv5MzNeAXYM-gpy-HP61eZ9RUzk15e8aYpKD4_TMMPVng9wqli-jrDI4U26Ezzt7v9l7ZBjAKL77oY2vMESRg7FpjEU-B8uzhBf4Skd3Sb8/s1600/site+plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEwE1Ew4wXNuWz4pV3v6pV6HaequHE8ak-zv5MzNeAXYM-gpy-HP61eZ9RUzk15e8aYpKD4_TMMPVng9wqli-jrDI4U26Ezzt7v9l7ZBjAKL77oY2vMESRg7FpjEU-B8uzhBf4Skd3Sb8/s1600/site+plan.jpg" width="197" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can see in the site plan above the house is situated in an enormous garden which hides the surrounding houses. It provides a very formal French garden which is in fact a potager or kitchen garden -where flowers mingle with fruits and vegetables. At the end of a path is the orangery where more exotic fruits and plants could grow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1lJQJHcrYXniky1Qqu4XzprlhDRr5Wl2-T0n839SF0JvS8ENsEbBvF_KFumyrgW_eMg7aFzUFyUL44Hlj_zXgQl_zVqlkQintXfYFwJCnIs6j69l3_e8jTxNI9MMT6viA-miyzscvQo/s1600/potager+and+orangery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1lJQJHcrYXniky1Qqu4XzprlhDRr5Wl2-T0n839SF0JvS8ENsEbBvF_KFumyrgW_eMg7aFzUFyUL44Hlj_zXgQl_zVqlkQintXfYFwJCnIs6j69l3_e8jTxNI9MMT6viA-miyzscvQo/s1600/potager+and+orangery.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The tall trees surrounding the garden not only hide the neighbors but other agricultural necessities; a chicken run, a rabbitry, and numerous outbuildings.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxlJK_ODVgMiJSmtKkhBGVyRDfNPCZHdlI1vydhiC2_tXY6XUZGqR5uWEI43PlAsL7ITL608lldCP9NTUqvJjtr0Wko8p15VyF4M0fB_PSXtijZIXwTvLg6VmYlo7Ri_wYZ16KydsdRA/s1600/ground+floor+plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxlJK_ODVgMiJSmtKkhBGVyRDfNPCZHdlI1vydhiC2_tXY6XUZGqR5uWEI43PlAsL7ITL608lldCP9NTUqvJjtr0Wko8p15VyF4M0fB_PSXtijZIXwTvLg6VmYlo7Ri_wYZ16KydsdRA/s1600/ground+floor+plan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The plan is unusual in that it is laid out as a town house. The dining room on the main floor opens to the garden and terrace with kitchens and service spaces surrounding it. Only up the staircase are the other rooms you'd expect to find on the ground level. Even in a small house such as this there is a stair for the master and another for the servants.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15bhU-BUuj9Ye1hWtDPYx9-Kc-2wQGnhCMiEs_-Qlmqq-T-b5bBwEmsdAOhs0t6V04xRnzFbRaCGozHQogbOEqo0vgVc6QE9aFLbkfITRZCdc6GA8-TJP2IvGvDlwbzPcirLvA0bHRB0/s1600/first+floor+plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15bhU-BUuj9Ye1hWtDPYx9-Kc-2wQGnhCMiEs_-Qlmqq-T-b5bBwEmsdAOhs0t6V04xRnzFbRaCGozHQogbOEqo0vgVc6QE9aFLbkfITRZCdc6GA8-TJP2IvGvDlwbzPcirLvA0bHRB0/s1600/first+floor+plan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The house contains only one bedroom going back to what I talked about in the last post <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2014/01/la-lanterne-versailles.html">HERE</a> that these houses were private retreats from the palace of Versailles and not meant for entertaining or even families.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6dnH5GIKQMoLnBa2FGurT9yqf5gPsFJL5MaUpgSh8TaHNZVaBB4fnzLXomW7sM3QUDIP-7hVKr8XogKWHFYF3fqlNXRCUkgHW13xMoQ9nmItRjKv18_40a-L-c4lovgEWE6JbJugubQ/s1600/hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6dnH5GIKQMoLnBa2FGurT9yqf5gPsFJL5MaUpgSh8TaHNZVaBB4fnzLXomW7sM3QUDIP-7hVKr8XogKWHFYF3fqlNXRCUkgHW13xMoQ9nmItRjKv18_40a-L-c4lovgEWE6JbJugubQ/s1600/hall.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The rooms are all small and cozy but feature fine detailing such as this painted boiserie in the entry hall which the article states was painted white.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh19YslbKtEBhyQk3N4IlT572_DFuc7UY5eyrKGWdOAaHhyNFX9GwkOtsmTKf7OZbmMdrLapWv0z02qRzxalYcHR6Q3Ej2q31kU-gXw-KWXolFeE1j0JkPEF5uzvUwOw9pCp22JPMukPw8/s1600/staircase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh19YslbKtEBhyQk3N4IlT572_DFuc7UY5eyrKGWdOAaHhyNFX9GwkOtsmTKf7OZbmMdrLapWv0z02qRzxalYcHR6Q3Ej2q31kU-gXw-KWXolFeE1j0JkPEF5uzvUwOw9pCp22JPMukPw8/s1600/staircase.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>The stair has interesting faux-marble painted boiserie and patterns that I think show the 18th century interest in the discovery of Herculaneum and Pompeii. Notice the beautiful chevron patterned floors.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLa63QGImTb60L_39CBUQexFc2YtMl59pNVL7Jc18PyLvO6BpKteIIhm-R4aWzuWDkH933UkvcTuJ1dNxRI4qIbY18TiwSmMOxPg5drEhmWf8QdDxAWSwntahpC319Bi1k9PBVrAsG8bE/s1600/dining+room+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLa63QGImTb60L_39CBUQexFc2YtMl59pNVL7Jc18PyLvO6BpKteIIhm-R4aWzuWDkH933UkvcTuJ1dNxRI4qIbY18TiwSmMOxPg5drEhmWf8QdDxAWSwntahpC319Bi1k9PBVrAsG8bE/s1600/dining+room+1.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>Behind the front hall the dining room continues the chevron floors with pale green painted boiserie covering the walls. Notice the painted scenic overdoors.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VbqXGz-9RY7bon1V8eTokvDbSR_tvuyTVN7joY1AbEop_Mjjd-olFmtY7NwMRByVMsHSOrdhyXmRufvEvpcWecw2nID3UgwnMd5WN6mMJIHlqAtiInx9aq4Sei0i4MibvF_flY4Qy2k/s1600/dining+room+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VbqXGz-9RY7bon1V8eTokvDbSR_tvuyTVN7joY1AbEop_Mjjd-olFmtY7NwMRByVMsHSOrdhyXmRufvEvpcWecw2nID3UgwnMd5WN6mMJIHlqAtiInx9aq4Sei0i4MibvF_flY4Qy2k/s1600/dining+room+2.jpg" width="323" /></a></div>This is probably the most charming room in the house, don't you think, with French doors opening out to the terrace?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSN0KWtIOTUAFQZaw9WYvNw5h4D5iY-oeqbeKmdXYQVxtY5xaxPPV5t5Aigh443HsF9SC9B0bDgEPGDHwdZbyyRRD6UnbiBfLZOG1CTYvwm4mhpDGvcOJBCnkRsPk2dWAniP4oVxFGEe4/s1600/dining+room+doorway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSN0KWtIOTUAFQZaw9WYvNw5h4D5iY-oeqbeKmdXYQVxtY5xaxPPV5t5Aigh443HsF9SC9B0bDgEPGDHwdZbyyRRD6UnbiBfLZOG1CTYvwm4mhpDGvcOJBCnkRsPk2dWAniP4oVxFGEe4/s1600/dining+room+doorway.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>The eclectic array of furniture is very of the 1920s and today for that matter; a very comfortable arrangement.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5wq_pi7vcfQZgcdqPhc868Q1rb1i8mepeGgCv23A2NB8s1BEMT82hgHlDILUA1EkAFjBrNxs-8Xi8DUq4NVdiafQeePnpu6LJ_IY6ssK6yOmq93hlUsebpdFWVjo4DB7FfkAuhIiznU/s1600/dining+room+fireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5wq_pi7vcfQZgcdqPhc868Q1rb1i8mepeGgCv23A2NB8s1BEMT82hgHlDILUA1EkAFjBrNxs-8Xi8DUq4NVdiafQeePnpu6LJ_IY6ssK6yOmq93hlUsebpdFWVjo4DB7FfkAuhIiznU/s1600/dining+room+fireplace.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>This seating group by the fireplace is probably where the owner spent a lot of time before and after meals.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHW8N3Ow29P4Lefo0k565Su3Vpxz5b5qfwLGDT43SQmaiiuMP8Ma_Ykp5ierRyDhGZaAE_rI9lIYmzp2sxpSGxf4pJfd5yNXgt_V4oLCF7gULH8fhO67hKG4RbLuc1cZD2h0ntYc7WGVw/s1600/salon+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHW8N3Ow29P4Lefo0k565Su3Vpxz5b5qfwLGDT43SQmaiiuMP8Ma_Ykp5ierRyDhGZaAE_rI9lIYmzp2sxpSGxf4pJfd5yNXgt_V4oLCF7gULH8fhO67hKG4RbLuc1cZD2h0ntYc7WGVw/s1600/salon+2.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>Upstairs the boiserie is left natural and unpainted with the carved details picked out in gold leaf.  The chandelier is of course more in the French taste while the assortment of furniture almost feels English to my eye.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnfQ0ylUsnNTQc_1ws3pDf0wuvqW5c9dCb7jRPaST5-9uOldTvz8LS9JX96CjwjJ0hepIZ5PKvRkk95fgDeSYauKkTr0e8UHUnXp1RZsgpeLdVbfyEoGqtlGJ6c7kwM7HnS7coIsBWLk/s1600/salon+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtnfQ0ylUsnNTQc_1ws3pDf0wuvqW5c9dCb7jRPaST5-9uOldTvz8LS9JX96CjwjJ0hepIZ5PKvRkk95fgDeSYauKkTr0e8UHUnXp1RZsgpeLdVbfyEoGqtlGJ6c7kwM7HnS7coIsBWLk/s1600/salon+3.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>No shortage of light or garden views from up here either. I love how the chandelier reflects the light even without the electricity turned on.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqjpLVqt_9fYBxBGnB4cr7ihxmEoLyNkgEoHHQqeAiyCNG4XlgsYzxmadYEYQxtw4lJcKCTsgo6g9vJG5BwNjwbcM9YdTA_CWO2SNvJFmRvYlFzdMPUHcLsuP0JbnBmKp9EOIdnZAJEw/s1600/salon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqjpLVqt_9fYBxBGnB4cr7ihxmEoLyNkgEoHHQqeAiyCNG4XlgsYzxmadYEYQxtw4lJcKCTsgo6g9vJG5BwNjwbcM9YdTA_CWO2SNvJFmRvYlFzdMPUHcLsuP0JbnBmKp9EOIdnZAJEw/s1600/salon.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>It pains me to think this may have been torn down! What do you think -could you live in a mini mansion such as this? Live stylishly in a smaller space is what this house screams to me!

Le Pavillon de Madame, Verailles

As promised here I bring you another small mansion from the book " The smaller houses and gardens of Versailles ", this one simply...

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Broadleys by Voysey

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicaVRy2ZjSgYuYT_cnGECERMZhF_-tcVEpdTa3RJHjPZGhJa44bmeiabuJsVUvm9quOh-3E01H5Tm0yDmlxHpsRL0GtbWD5qd2dwJwH7aiiqd_iYKd6uMNYmK88at1P6QgwlcGuKp32kCI/s1600/Broadley+today.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicaVRy2ZjSgYuYT_cnGECERMZhF_-tcVEpdTa3RJHjPZGhJa44bmeiabuJsVUvm9quOh-3E01H5Tm0yDmlxHpsRL0GtbWD5qd2dwJwH7aiiqd_iYKd6uMNYmK88at1P6QgwlcGuKp32kCI/s400/Broadley+today.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>While at an estate sale this past weekend I came across an interesting little boxed set of 1/2 sheets of paper showcasing highlights of Western Architectural history. A sort of 1960s version of pinterest (do you follow me on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/architectdesign/">pinterest</a>?). One of these sheets was a vintage photograph and plan of  house Broadleys by the architect Voysey, the sheet seen below. You may remember I blogged about another Voysey house, <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2012/09/an-early-modern-country-house-upmeads.html">Upmeads</a>, last year which was actually pretty similar in that it had an efficient, tight floorplan and was loacted out in the country.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHTbmX3E7zbwRV4nOwZ5ALrNscOBIUjgkh1YOb2pnu4wRjY7g0C2FG41ZpPrRQJmVB6wnCCmZzT5K3s1YQpVwuTJFDvfRsVsl2X92c_Q08tDqhc60uH3dRxQPsafpIB4fEREFH2YoHZE4/s1600/archtitectural+history+-+Broadleys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHTbmX3E7zbwRV4nOwZ5ALrNscOBIUjgkh1YOb2pnu4wRjY7g0C2FG41ZpPrRQJmVB6wnCCmZzT5K3s1YQpVwuTJFDvfRsVsl2X92c_Q08tDqhc60uH3dRxQPsafpIB4fEREFH2YoHZE4/s400/archtitectural+history+-+Broadleys.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I did with a number of the projects I wasn't familiar with (mainly cathedrals and palaces) I looked <a href="http://www.wmbrc.co.uk/index.htm">Broadleys</a> up online. Not only is the house still extant but it  is open to the public as a <a href="http://www.wmbrc.co.uk/index.htm">short-term rental</a> or bed and breakfast! I came across a website listing a number of similar British Arts & Crafts houses that were also operating as bed and breakfasts <a href="http://www.achome.co.uk/accommodation/accommodation.htm">HERE</a>. What an incredible opportunity to not only go to house museums while you travel but to stay in one as well! The internet is full of dangerous ways to spend money.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwylnbGwKOq38yJ4vfxXDD4qgfHZdWpOSPjUbhGeLxukBAW2BV8R_yecIVrfQWZ-Xqn1VSzRSaCpyy4UyaGDy_RkKt8ryywqh5rq4vfcNgKmY8pVpxyhVrRHkpAP8GUb7rERw13DjA7Nr/s1600/Broadley+drawings+and+plans+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwylnbGwKOq38yJ4vfxXDD4qgfHZdWpOSPjUbhGeLxukBAW2BV8R_yecIVrfQWZ-Xqn1VSzRSaCpyy4UyaGDy_RkKt8ryywqh5rq4vfcNgKmY8pVpxyhVrRHkpAP8GUb7rERw13DjA7Nr/s400/Broadley+drawings+and+plans+2.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>A number of other interesting drawings popped up of Broadleys as well such as this cartouche in the collection of the <a href="http://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O74429/design-for-broadleys-windermere-for-design-voysey-charles-francis/">V&A</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYJCLlg7MjQBQlg9zKG6pawFZMJsdAN0nIFc0cKsmwlpmLrXcdmnr_wODL1jC6GlvUNAd_9kChemvk1EgUMarRsIJCWPGUYOgJvivzWC5MHo7rjoXu7pzhjcOlaZN_j9qFnPruFot9IJG/s1600/broadley+drawing+&+plans.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYJCLlg7MjQBQlg9zKG6pawFZMJsdAN0nIFc0cKsmwlpmLrXcdmnr_wODL1jC6GlvUNAd_9kChemvk1EgUMarRsIJCWPGUYOgJvivzWC5MHo7rjoXu7pzhjcOlaZN_j9qFnPruFot9IJG/s400/broadley+drawing+&+plans.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>This charming postcard caught my eye as well not only because of the beautiful rendering but it also included the 2nd floor plan. And so one falls down the rabbit hole of the internet.... Whats caught your eye lately? <a href="http://www.accesshydroponic.com/"><img src="http://snapshackk.com/accesscouponcodeforbloggers.jpg" /></a> Get 10% sitewide when you shop at <a href="http://www.accesshydroponic.com/">Access Hydroponic</a>. Valid until November 2013!

Broadleys by Voysey

While at an estate sale this past weekend I came across an interesting little boxed set of 1/2 sheets of paper showcasing highlights of West...

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Trumbauer's swan song

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTIoZfWmWRyw3Lbx6jFroFPH-IFfjmJ1rSLC2l8LaeA8JQIhPQ4h_JW0ZESJZKvcb6EwQ5gnyAvcWkeXYCBIb9iJDUXZhjy7nd1_FjiZgUs6-R3YqeBpWPuJwdxO5uGMSspO85NGYxWVD/s1600/Breakfast+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTIoZfWmWRyw3Lbx6jFroFPH-IFfjmJ1rSLC2l8LaeA8JQIhPQ4h_JW0ZESJZKvcb6EwQ5gnyAvcWkeXYCBIb9iJDUXZhjy7nd1_FjiZgUs6-R3YqeBpWPuJwdxO5uGMSspO85NGYxWVD/s320/Breakfast+room.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> I recently treated myself to a book I have coveted for a long time, <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/American-Splendor-Residential-Architecture-Trumbauer/dp/0926494414/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1362717662&sr=8-6&keywords=american+splendor">American Splendor; The Residential Architecture of Horace Trumbauer</a></i> by Michael Kathrens. It does not disappoint.  A catalog of Trumbauer's best work, each chapter is devoted to a different project and even floorplans for each are included!.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpB9LXVQTqZAoWp9GCnhRq8gyBtbDBIgfbL-u2XR39-qAQTUW3gQWs6OW6z3nCwFiP0Io68x5ePA6k6WBobGhUuF-Eimjxwp_2HjMCNAS41LD1fAiUMLqMHPtIJlOCCbgz4czzpouYL_O7/s1600/Rose+Terrace+facade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpB9LXVQTqZAoWp9GCnhRq8gyBtbDBIgfbL-u2XR39-qAQTUW3gQWs6OW6z3nCwFiP0Io68x5ePA6k6WBobGhUuF-Eimjxwp_2HjMCNAS41LD1fAiUMLqMHPtIJlOCCbgz4czzpouYL_O7/s320/Rose+Terrace+facade.jpg" width="235" /></a></div>If you're not familiar with Trumbauer you may be familiar with some of his work. A self-educated man, he rose to become one of the most sought after residential architects of the early 20th century.  His last completed project, <i>Rose Terrace</i>, is the subject of this brief post.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUCkrCLuFxAMvqAOFY4FQBCS1Hyv0xV49xbPV0_Y_0tXde5TgErlEv6tEGZa9kKgY3M2YnlTQTyQp2kauI0ySxV1OFasMkoUoSmf6kyY46ClN1xZcAE3LURDORWleoQX4f3fhY_q9oSRtg/s1600/Rose+Terrace+first+floor+plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUCkrCLuFxAMvqAOFY4FQBCS1Hyv0xV49xbPV0_Y_0tXde5TgErlEv6tEGZa9kKgY3M2YnlTQTyQp2kauI0ySxV1OFasMkoUoSmf6kyY46ClN1xZcAE3LURDORWleoQX4f3fhY_q9oSRtg/s400/Rose+Terrace+first+floor+plan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Started in 1930 the house wasn't finished until 1934 for Anna Dodge Dillman in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. While noted as a difficult woman she had amazing taste and hired (or married) the best tastemakers of her day; Trumbauer, Lord Duveen, and Alavoine & Cie, amongst others. Anna lived at Rose Terrace until her death in 1970, spending summers at her Mizner designed estate in Palm Beach, <a href="http://www.newyorksocialdiary.com/node/1902473">Playa Riente</a> (not a bad life, no?).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05O1759PfFkzdA8MFjP9p9QPjzvjcXqI8qQ3ZkjmrrJC_NeyKEHwqT4nxny43ou99QlkgSO3ZcFDgGTqW9uhGlTEOjpvL0GuSsnq2fd8TyvovmsohjHhZfYvQJvz9cAD3sv5hAGF1vvZv/s1600/Rose+Terrace+second+floor+plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj05O1759PfFkzdA8MFjP9p9QPjzvjcXqI8qQ3ZkjmrrJC_NeyKEHwqT4nxny43ou99QlkgSO3ZcFDgGTqW9uhGlTEOjpvL0GuSsnq2fd8TyvovmsohjHhZfYvQJvz9cAD3sv5hAGF1vvZv/s400/Rose+Terrace+second+floor+plan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The house was immense as you can see from the floorplans above. While Trumbauer was known mainly for large houses, this was his last and certainly his finest. Many refer to the house as the best example of French neoclassical style ever built in this country: a slight on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miramar_(mansion)">Miramar</a>, the Trumbauer house on which Rose Terrace was based.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinCAPqV00pAo9ykmjb5dEtjlEm6GIK7Ra0e2AjsQkGwywqlT5R-ZhOn25RNdrq0I1Tgs-PKx8l_AJPPbUqbm3lv7VyqF8vyuvic1oqAePXzP0K_fInKjMaIhJdo-KbIF8C9pIC-6dRdThR/s1600/Rose+Terrace+stairhall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinCAPqV00pAo9ykmjb5dEtjlEm6GIK7Ra0e2AjsQkGwywqlT5R-ZhOn25RNdrq0I1Tgs-PKx8l_AJPPbUqbm3lv7VyqF8vyuvic1oqAePXzP0K_fInKjMaIhJdo-KbIF8C9pIC-6dRdThR/s320/Rose+Terrace+stairhall.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>Anna lived at Rose Terrace in isolated splendor especially as she descended into her twilight years; money provides an excellent buffer and she lived in a Belle Epoque splendor as the fortunes of Detroit crumbled.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyC3qcngbG-ThjlXeDsnIeqpP-189XMoGUHa5-jbzQ7vbIWoTsxpBOSVWkE9g4vmA4NP7_iixJCsMky_tWj3Op5v2IVBJpOjtbhNsLiY2Ix24IQdcwMEzZl-lFT3esI6oUJRdUjjHkFAPu/s1600/library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyC3qcngbG-ThjlXeDsnIeqpP-189XMoGUHa5-jbzQ7vbIWoTsxpBOSVWkE9g4vmA4NP7_iixJCsMky_tWj3Op5v2IVBJpOjtbhNsLiY2Ix24IQdcwMEzZl-lFT3esI6oUJRdUjjHkFAPu/s320/library.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Sadly the house didn't fair as well as Anna. After her death the house was unable to be sold, mainly due to the 70s recession. After a few years of neglect the contents were dispersed (mostly auctioned off although the music room resides in the Detroit Art Museum) and the house torn down. The gates now enclose a bland subdivision.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnr7UGfXj0QFYn00hRYkhDKzH4iPj-PP9otF4uUpAZXE_oa1cifr3o2ZDMxxLrehpx6E2Si8KrpDqpRi-vjZYsqKi1-xboJQqHT_DZqBB-0GmYd-n5S0DdIBWBz3_3CMIIP0A3nxi7gv_U/s1600/The+Delphine+Docked+at+Rose+Terrace,+William+Moss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnr7UGfXj0QFYn00hRYkhDKzH4iPj-PP9otF4uUpAZXE_oa1cifr3o2ZDMxxLrehpx6E2Si8KrpDqpRi-vjZYsqKi1-xboJQqHT_DZqBB-0GmYd-n5S0DdIBWBz3_3CMIIP0A3nxi7gv_U/s320/The+Delphine+Docked+at+Rose+Terrace,+William+Moss.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Was Rose Terrace one of the last great estates to be seen in this country?  If so its ending is rather poetic as it lasted as long as Anna.<br />See and read more about Rose Terrace at <a href="http://www.oldlongisland.com/2011/02/rose-terrace-detroit-edition.html">Old Long Island</a> and a series of fascinating videos <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jjbt0yCWQjs">HERE</a>.<br /><i>All images are from the aforementioned book and not the editor's own.</i>

Trumbauer's swan song

 I recently treated myself to a book I have coveted for a long time, American Splendor; The Residential Architecture of Horace Trumbauer by...

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