Those fine 'Fine Paints of Europe'

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabVg3ADI9v2oixwSYFq6Gc6AQL71locgmxCaJaveIcJxOhBq4ZooZh2nyPfuD8Ma9gulx70xxrJu5Y6chDrkJ5lYj76KUWkhmrEL8kMiTLOURm_qoYOByEBZ4aRZNczCea0DhXZuyWu4/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabVg3ADI9v2oixwSYFq6Gc6AQL71locgmxCaJaveIcJxOhBq4ZooZh2nyPfuD8Ma9gulx70xxrJu5Y6chDrkJ5lYj76KUWkhmrEL8kMiTLOURm_qoYOByEBZ4aRZNczCea0DhXZuyWu4/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>As an architect you constantly find yourself specifying interesting and beautiful products but how does one get to make an educated decision over which products to use? I decided to try one out myself - <a href="http://www.finepaintsofeurope.com/">Fine Paints of Europe</a>. Fine Paints of Europe, or FPE as I'll call it in this post, is an oil based paint renowned for its glossy, almost glass-like appearance. To achieve this shine a rather detailed process is involved and on a recent project I decided to try it myself rather than leave it to the painters so that I could really get to understand the process.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoc7Mcy1dEq4tmU6xupP3EiY9zh6tmoFyugbPdPuoivX3QC_Ql7kYvZkYUU1VLavJVFB0zTqcnrMn4fto3fEX5O6Tmvu4bPscpLDduuXqt7XF0NdtqBrqbvYqhwANpxdz7zmPahc4D_o/s1600/house+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoc7Mcy1dEq4tmU6xupP3EiY9zh6tmoFyugbPdPuoivX3QC_Ql7kYvZkYUU1VLavJVFB0zTqcnrMn4fto3fEX5O6Tmvu4bPscpLDduuXqt7XF0NdtqBrqbvYqhwANpxdz7zmPahc4D_o/s1600/house+before.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>Lets start at the very beginning shall we?  The project was an old and rather, lets say, 'dated' townhouse in Georgetown.  Above you can see the 100 year old door forlornly hidden behind an ugly security gate and layers of pink paint.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcsUFEDKWwKvJxFcvJQZ8ikaftvndvbcgRiCjZfKDL-J4C8tW9XGWeRWfJgwLXfsjhyudIFHY3ZQD8RY-HwhaAClPmjHiGObV-UlcdVN5bNp1FnZBh6-883od_9aK9C9nN73K-AeWEcgg/s1600/white+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcsUFEDKWwKvJxFcvJQZ8ikaftvndvbcgRiCjZfKDL-J4C8tW9XGWeRWfJgwLXfsjhyudIFHY3ZQD8RY-HwhaAClPmjHiGObV-UlcdVN5bNp1FnZBh6-883od_9aK9C9nN73K-AeWEcgg/s1600/white+door.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>The first step was to get the house right. Painters were brought in to banish the pink and white scheme and new landscaping was installed. Dated storm doors in the city? No thanks, rip that out! Much better already, no?  After the long missing shutters were re-installed the only thing remaining on the street front was how to make that front door a focal point. It had to be something really special I felt - a bold color - and a shiny finish would be the finishing touch. Rather than a traditional red or green accent door, purple was decided upon. Yes - PURPLE. If you're gonna go for it - <i><u>GO FOR IT</u></i>!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaOK8Hx3K7n3gYld34iX7jpiHajWeFJIGg9KN24rzObYjEFp9VedFBF4MCNWyV9U5tbRtLvIoCvEHGjW9GSpc3eErgzucA2ayPci_YIj5jRQC6MfDmyBGfM03JofZfx1KCQLCAhUvlqE/s1600/first+coat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaOK8Hx3K7n3gYld34iX7jpiHajWeFJIGg9KN24rzObYjEFp9VedFBF4MCNWyV9U5tbRtLvIoCvEHGjW9GSpc3eErgzucA2ayPci_YIj5jRQC6MfDmyBGfM03JofZfx1KCQLCAhUvlqE/s1600/first+coat.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>Picking up my paint brush I was careful to follow the FPE instructions. After removing all of the brass hardware (to be thoroughly polished) and sanding the door (a very important step as the high gloss would show any imperfection), a specialty primer by FPE was used. This primer was so thick and rigid, like super glue, that it created a smooth surface to work on; not an easy feat on a rough old Victorian door! This took about 3 HOURS!! The 3 day holiday weekend was a perfect time for this as it took an entire day for the door to be sanded, primed, and then dry. The 2nd day was the 1st coat of paint.  The paint was also thick, although not as rigid as the primer. It went on smoothly and after very careful brush strokes, miraculously produced a perfect glossy surface!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQZNVnV-stGRLFoYxu4iidRfHnJFRUHjvBzzfVKx3eYmWvB5RRNHoOgL5upXk2vuv4Khunuh2GrpZxHf_3TZnCoMIRST5ktDT41FfzezyQjPKM9kM1pLdCDzcHvtda2yk80fkhEPGDYc/s1600/door.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQZNVnV-stGRLFoYxu4iidRfHnJFRUHjvBzzfVKx3eYmWvB5RRNHoOgL5upXk2vuv4Khunuh2GrpZxHf_3TZnCoMIRST5ktDT41FfzezyQjPKM9kM1pLdCDzcHvtda2yk80fkhEPGDYc/s1600/door.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>The first coat dried perfectly and I was tempted to leave well enough alone but the directions said to apply a second coat. So the 3rd day I woke up early and did as directed. The 2nd coat was somewhat difficult as the paint dries as glossy as it is while wet so making sure I was achieving even coverage was a bit of a chore (viewing the door sideways helped). After drying for 12 hours I was able to re-install the now gleaming brass hardware and voila!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR045jYJpgAcVnTcDVkrVLbyN7JZwuFEHLRuR2AIhwBaA0gyLLgGy6dV-3XGI3SxK3rdh6M_X8x1m0XspbH13D8vGhDAzaGyFSAAXWjiu_w77WB4c47IZ9tVrIETcEAUQ-bSV2UHYBISc/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR045jYJpgAcVnTcDVkrVLbyN7JZwuFEHLRuR2AIhwBaA0gyLLgGy6dV-3XGI3SxK3rdh6M_X8x1m0XspbH13D8vGhDAzaGyFSAAXWjiu_w77WB4c47IZ9tVrIETcEAUQ-bSV2UHYBISc/s1600/front+of+house.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I was so happy with the end result and think it puts the finishing touch on this lovely Georgetown townhouse. On future projects I'll now be able to instruct painters with assurance having tried the product myself.  Lesson learned: follow the directions, they're there for a reason!<br /><i>I received no compensation for this post but rather I wanted to share my experience with a great product!</i>

Those fine 'Fine Paints of Europe'

As an architect you constantly find yourself specifying interesting and beautiful products but how does one get to make an educated decision...

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Lutyen's British Embassy public spaces

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qqqpVt_pHb6QzY-famiTjO6aJ3IGQlocijPBhOlrTpj0Zc88jja6pxkT95crHx2YvDTSFXoXfnR2nowTifq3GexbVHyDh-Kzj64htTgapxIBY5QgA2lQsJrLUTJLc15l1dyv78R4_VA/s1600/study+chandelier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qqqpVt_pHb6QzY-famiTjO6aJ3IGQlocijPBhOlrTpj0Zc88jja6pxkT95crHx2YvDTSFXoXfnR2nowTifq3GexbVHyDh-Kzj64htTgapxIBY5QgA2lQsJrLUTJLc15l1dyv78R4_VA/s1600/study+chandelier.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The public spaces of Lutyen's British Embassy exemplify the British Country House look; grand, luxurious with an aire of informality, and above all Classical, albeit with a twist.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ99ExGR0s48fUIx7dRDJBLyGxP5Tq76mSjH1184Pwul2MA6m2OcUm9074p7S-TE13TRf0T1r6n0v8KY5XW0rpyyAnuuGdjUvHQ1X5BybsdvNa9ArArDAc0hdF2wWArokfT0az3UTvtCw/s1600/corridor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ99ExGR0s48fUIx7dRDJBLyGxP5Tq76mSjH1184Pwul2MA6m2OcUm9074p7S-TE13TRf0T1r6n0v8KY5XW0rpyyAnuuGdjUvHQ1X5BybsdvNa9ArArDAc0hdF2wWArokfT0az3UTvtCw/s1600/corridor.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>After ascending the <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2014/05/lutyens-british-embassy-main-stair.html">Main stair</a> one is confronted with a long corridor that creates the spine of the house. This axis is meant to impress the visitor, leading one to believe that the house is much larger than it actually is, while also providing ample room to entertain.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFBSLCWF4EmqzeVzMpekG7wGneX7YsvMLUT8MB6F59btUyyTlBY2jwVwKxGdIU_h4nfFtuXv_c0MA0pf7GVBiCyNvM_xtKpzkbbjot_JX3xHhAkGys8iLo38JnB4cB55M2gbmXpDhyphenhyphennMo/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/AVvXsEjFBSLCWF4EmqzeVzMpekG7wGneX7YsvMLUT8MB6F59btUyyTlBY2jwVwKxGdIU_h4nfFtuXv_c0MA0pf7GVBiCyNvM_xtKpzkbbjot_JX3xHhAkGys8iLo38JnB4cB55M2gbmXpDhyphenhyphennMo/s1600/british+embassy+floorplan.jpg" width="291" /></a></div>One can follow this strict axis in the floorplan above.  Much in the Beaux Arts mode, the initial spaces are where no expense is spared and the details are ravishing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmpLruiuFggEhX4Vqia3-1rAWF8bAD715jzfDZJDjvO6R6LdBxbqSz_cEa1nrdAObjZjaHhUUY6cDDvn1Ohn8O-gYMrZpF_W2rV_iiVMSGl14j0Va4CFt91EOnnJdIEKOeW-icQ-T4hs/s1600/column+capital.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmpLruiuFggEhX4Vqia3-1rAWF8bAD715jzfDZJDjvO6R6LdBxbqSz_cEa1nrdAObjZjaHhUUY6cDDvn1Ohn8O-gYMrZpF_W2rV_iiVMSGl14j0Va4CFt91EOnnJdIEKOeW-icQ-T4hs/s1600/column+capital.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>These plaster capitals, moulding, and scagliola columns would not escape the notice of the most ardent non-aesthete.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnd-0t1nJIhsYi2_6YP4C3OvTmSRiRXe5setYtxd4Y-CTQ3LTYIxBt_WgVvCdkxbCt0oR5nQmx8R8QdArZHeR5IdmymY6_KuWziCRoOQym6wbIh_vyws-yBvLEyHY4IlIVTuD5ZVlxDtI/s1600/ballroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnd-0t1nJIhsYi2_6YP4C3OvTmSRiRXe5setYtxd4Y-CTQ3LTYIxBt_WgVvCdkxbCt0oR5nQmx8R8QdArZHeR5IdmymY6_KuWziCRoOQym6wbIh_vyws-yBvLEyHY4IlIVTuD5ZVlxDtI/s1600/ballroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The ballroom is not hidden behind doors but rather creates a cross-axis with the corridor. Notice the Warhol portrait of Queen Elizabeth II above the mantel. The mirrors with mounted crystal sconces were my favorite part of the room. Original to the space they had been removed for decades before a previous ambassador had them re-installed.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CIE1faC4ctxkNuzm4RzWQ0OLSUSu2YpalwZsL4OQISQ7OWyGZ4EaQyAqgB92y1dPvkdOi6-QUAax_8AHNd9vzn_FLGfQvymJYxa-4yGCeKo9cuioC1pnRSpZbArR5ODBu_0PP_qSSOg/s1600/plaster+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CIE1faC4ctxkNuzm4RzWQ0OLSUSu2YpalwZsL4OQISQ7OWyGZ4EaQyAqgB92y1dPvkdOi6-QUAax_8AHNd9vzn_FLGfQvymJYxa-4yGCeKo9cuioC1pnRSpZbArR5ODBu_0PP_qSSOg/s1600/plaster+detail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> The level of detail found in these 85 year old plaster mouldings is impressive; no over-painting regimen here!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWS0EwH_YZSwbqrj6smOG54b3vjDWiufO_EWjWCYiB34OYU4_nSRWPJ1_zL-o1UfT6bMOf8LaUNCExNZYJ2ivCUmjSacjqx4a4v4ryNIs5pO4ZxCZ-S3WrCbhptV_vqpWx0iMPYqKwhc/s1600/drawing+room+corner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWS0EwH_YZSwbqrj6smOG54b3vjDWiufO_EWjWCYiB34OYU4_nSRWPJ1_zL-o1UfT6bMOf8LaUNCExNZYJ2ivCUmjSacjqx4a4v4ryNIs5pO4ZxCZ-S3WrCbhptV_vqpWx0iMPYqKwhc/s1600/drawing+room+corner.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>After the ballroom one approaches the large corner drawing room, with multiple seating groups, which faces the beautiful lawn and gardens.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kIV0L06Mb8FZw1Sx6gdK0xJGzW6S0Mee5O1A4Skk1d2XDdem9ho9rDrTcfdf825Th7risnBS8ElX1fBEd_Szc55Ulrmtp3GXCCG_Ia-Sf720wv_YNsf1xk1P236yZDEtbmWCI18-Pu4/s1600/drawing+room+corner+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kIV0L06Mb8FZw1Sx6gdK0xJGzW6S0Mee5O1A4Skk1d2XDdem9ho9rDrTcfdf825Th7risnBS8ElX1fBEd_Szc55Ulrmtp3GXCCG_Ia-Sf720wv_YNsf1xk1P236yZDEtbmWCI18-Pu4/s1600/drawing+room+corner+2.jpg" width="296" /></a></div> As can be expected in a house with this many large windows the quality of light is beautiful.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwBAs8SKW07PS_6xvHtYhqjPrXHnZH4qbNOQP-hqi6yt6qxMZ2DqUXBtobEJpltK1VARbHdtr6uYT59webfr1Qv_pDrgqDxgEvPFyrEOw8AiKPh9e4raNiQiLM1BhwtZz-YGTfyCRlCk/s1600/dining+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwBAs8SKW07PS_6xvHtYhqjPrXHnZH4qbNOQP-hqi6yt6qxMZ2DqUXBtobEJpltK1VARbHdtr6uYT59webfr1Qv_pDrgqDxgEvPFyrEOw8AiKPh9e4raNiQiLM1BhwtZz-YGTfyCRlCk/s1600/dining+room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Opposite from the drawing room is the dining room. Again the corner location makes for the best use of light even with the opulent curtains.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioB7t1HQ70XHJ6aI5_4KxJ_iZNGkkvlC6IlleaGSimg0ZleG_i_ahSliS85yfcuxZoSJ47st95kSjcKxgSveyBmai5QkGTZmgdMKiOEmEb82lre93BgtnTRkQXisLy5TxEaKmDtamWxKc/s1600/dining+room+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioB7t1HQ70XHJ6aI5_4KxJ_iZNGkkvlC6IlleaGSimg0ZleG_i_ahSliS85yfcuxZoSJ47st95kSjcKxgSveyBmai5QkGTZmgdMKiOEmEb82lre93BgtnTRkQXisLy5TxEaKmDtamWxKc/s1600/dining+room+detail.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>These crystal girandoles flanking the mantel were show-stoppers. The mantel had been painted gray until one day a painter noticed that it was made of an orange scagliola;  the paint was judiciously removed from the columns and direct fire surround for contrast.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2M0ayWSeYAL055m4z-GmsmzB0iDIxy12nFzgbw8VVGpqwCY9rhFym_RIWenb0IXuDXw-WXwosFRV2qYi1BzQIUJjITP4fKsnmLfiBOAmjtBXmfFZGyItGyRBJjTtXy4y5URMNsBvkxRg/s1600/dining+room+detail+2+-+british+modesty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2M0ayWSeYAL055m4z-GmsmzB0iDIxy12nFzgbw8VVGpqwCY9rhFym_RIWenb0IXuDXw-WXwosFRV2qYi1BzQIUJjITP4fKsnmLfiBOAmjtBXmfFZGyItGyRBJjTtXy4y5URMNsBvkxRg/s1600/dining+room+detail+2+-+british+modesty.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>My favorite shot I took in the house, and which sums up the entire British attitude towards such grandeur, was this table lamp in the dining room slightly askew;  Modest to a fault.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjV4q6-i3_64VflOSYHn2TbL73n03XIB__Mnh7Avc7DpIu-F2eqqz_K5F3cDnfWTbxPq_6Hm6GWfLx16nIxT0AmIlhfURz-X1Js4a2UuuphiKeFZyNnJmoMFFK_OHylKZkn4JFcR9DjpI/s1600/study+fireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjV4q6-i3_64VflOSYHn2TbL73n03XIB__Mnh7Avc7DpIu-F2eqqz_K5F3cDnfWTbxPq_6Hm6GWfLx16nIxT0AmIlhfURz-X1Js4a2UuuphiKeFZyNnJmoMFFK_OHylKZkn4JFcR9DjpI/s1600/study+fireplace.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>While I took hundreds of photos I have to leave some of the house a mystery so you check out the amazing book which was the purpose for my tour: <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-architecture-of-diplomacy-british.html">The Architecture of Diplomacy: The British Ambassador's Residence in Washington</a>. Above and in the first photo of this post you see images of the ambassador's private study which artfully bridges what was once the connection between the residence and the embassy.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0CQtkQtIL-a8yVNUBWFIkRZ6vTQniNBeoAy8CuANtpHFmtyYBeDRGfJI8Di0WLqP-Z63sxDgnIYsu6F3EnqRq7LZSFZ-bvMElW0quE0lTnSwpJhEB2xiSunc7jYzPxQG99d0gIeOHuog/s1600/study+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0CQtkQtIL-a8yVNUBWFIkRZ6vTQniNBeoAy8CuANtpHFmtyYBeDRGfJI8Di0WLqP-Z63sxDgnIYsu6F3EnqRq7LZSFZ-bvMElW0quE0lTnSwpJhEB2xiSunc7jYzPxQG99d0gIeOHuog/s1600/study+bar.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>No Englishman's study would be complete without a bar: this one complete with a portrait of Field Marshal Montgomery, expertly painted by President Eisenhower in 1952. And not to fret, while this may be the only general overview I'll post on the interior of the house (really, get the book as my images could NEVER compare), I still have stunning details to bring you from Lutyen's <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-architecture-of-diplomacy-british.html">American Masterpiece: The British Embassy</a>.

Lutyen's British Embassy public spaces

The public spaces of Lutyen's British Embassy exemplify the British Country House look; grand, luxurious with an aire of informality, an...

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John Russell Pope tour and an upcoming ICAA event

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsAZ87N4cQoo7xdPNQSW9cR87Ilg7X8_IATI-9ts9u9gphWs3SSFMMCLZAQntNwcjLYPCG-0isU-cdkXvSeV5D_NBtdeUw107DaA0_3Jswt6xhejKCc6hzlk4M9UwaPrtMNXz6gQC0mU/s1600/National+Gallery+of+art+statue.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsAZ87N4cQoo7xdPNQSW9cR87Ilg7X8_IATI-9ts9u9gphWs3SSFMMCLZAQntNwcjLYPCG-0isU-cdkXvSeV5D_NBtdeUw107DaA0_3Jswt6xhejKCc6hzlk4M9UwaPrtMNXz6gQC0mU/s1600/National+Gallery+of+art+statue.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>I recently had the honor to host a lunch time tour of the John Russell Pope designed <a href="http://www.nga.gov/">National Gallery of Art</a> for the <a href="http://www.classicist-washington.org/">Mid-Atlantic branch of the ICAA</a> of which I sit on the board.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRtlBtxnzat9iEWTtMvWBLVSx9BNf-NBUAAlKrlUGm1W7QQtIdCdqiCJrfSAEalClZOL51AAC9U_ESAuc103Q1W_joXN4B2N3G3TBQTjPUeLLmxbWOiOyjcRDMVUPjN3C6ymD3qhUaSc/s1600/national+Gallery+of+art.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRtlBtxnzat9iEWTtMvWBLVSx9BNf-NBUAAlKrlUGm1W7QQtIdCdqiCJrfSAEalClZOL51AAC9U_ESAuc103Q1W_joXN4B2N3G3TBQTjPUeLLmxbWOiOyjcRDMVUPjN3C6ymD3qhUaSc/s1600/national+Gallery+of+art.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Probably my favorite public building in a city of favorites, this classical gem was designed by architect John Russell Pope for Andrew W. Mellon. Mellon (basically and in short) gifted the building and the basis of its collection to the nation. In an odd twist of fate both Mellon and Pope passed away in August,1937 before the Galleries' dedication in 1941.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMuW26lNDkWHWsDjT5-wx9c3tQBe8NJ-vkKsPWoxvXRDb77j3UQPy6CUKYyMz0cIt5B2RY-WMLCz7oU_qnp1DA43VeERfXOyNPlXmCQ68YHbiI-myY3kk3mCE3cYG4DHqK9VKEGWS7QuQ/s1600/National+Gallery+of+art+sign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMuW26lNDkWHWsDjT5-wx9c3tQBe8NJ-vkKsPWoxvXRDb77j3UQPy6CUKYyMz0cIt5B2RY-WMLCz7oU_qnp1DA43VeERfXOyNPlXmCQ68YHbiI-myY3kk3mCE3cYG4DHqK9VKEGWS7QuQ/s1600/National+Gallery+of+art+sign.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Clad in Tennessee pink marble the Neoclassical structure harkens the growing trend towards modernism while still looking to the past, as does much of its' collection.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8VLXHpKJxj5zO1UJ6MEkyxM88g5haEcVmDCVFkV63m3HkBZ9jqExbOCJdpPakvFL8_fi75_KvKu8uaCX2h9wTJmJTQ_V7adeoLFDhxLLTDQNjsvfq7WCBh4pngF3JG1ACwt4FVXmJJc/s1600/National+Gallery+of+Art+side.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8VLXHpKJxj5zO1UJ6MEkyxM88g5haEcVmDCVFkV63m3HkBZ9jqExbOCJdpPakvFL8_fi75_KvKu8uaCX2h9wTJmJTQ_V7adeoLFDhxLLTDQNjsvfq7WCBh4pngF3JG1ACwt4FVXmJJc/s1600/National+Gallery+of+Art+side.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Below you can see some early sketches by Pope which show the partee or basic plan as well as the massing of the building.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfHyzTUF9ykszmGjCm_UhSbA5sUnOCV3sc2aDsibBq7Hj-dKE_ps2BLpwyPcO0u63aQgfMxMBmoAbDdvxn6JKwiMbOfc61UYNL9oqXItQkkOXaLb5Md1Z4aMbwEw4xK8ZeXNacdWxCDM/s1600/National+Gallery+of+Art+floorplan+by+JRP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfHyzTUF9ykszmGjCm_UhSbA5sUnOCV3sc2aDsibBq7Hj-dKE_ps2BLpwyPcO0u63aQgfMxMBmoAbDdvxn6JKwiMbOfc61UYNL9oqXItQkkOXaLb5Md1Z4aMbwEw4xK8ZeXNacdWxCDM/s1600/National+Gallery+of+Art+floorplan+by+JRP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Largely based on Rome's Pantheon with wings housing the galleries, the structure incorporated the latest technology of the time which has held up remarkably well considering the wear and tear the building receives on a daily basis (including a recent earthquake)!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0XM80puR-mArdw-7N2sTSX3c29EnT_HkAlsl2nNVU-pb2rHwYbF05f7PCobF1737ZlDZW5_plMu2aV5NNIo8ptHvabWGmFVwZAmU0_JmcO7FjQmK1QTnEGTbq31656XEVTIdV9GKCy0/s1600/National+gallery+of+art+rotunda.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0XM80puR-mArdw-7N2sTSX3c29EnT_HkAlsl2nNVU-pb2rHwYbF05f7PCobF1737ZlDZW5_plMu2aV5NNIo8ptHvabWGmFVwZAmU0_JmcO7FjQmK1QTnEGTbq31656XEVTIdV9GKCy0/s1600/National+gallery+of+art+rotunda.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The central rotunda is my favorite space in the museum and possibly the city. The columns surrounding the central fountain are solid marble (quite the engineering feat getting those into place) which visually support a large coffered dome. While appearing to be the same stone as the rest of the interior, the dome is actually composed of plaster with a steel frame.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUVmtfGa_O1IY6Eh5Hkw4cpIOE75gQsoXtpC0AdFrJpZ9E-mpULSpAIGSNQ1pmH7C9piybJXC5UTvlylS-igX4DV7bzxJllf5By-SQi9CeEZlLmsAYjjGMUUAPSnb-mG2wZnM4yqvmdk/s1600/Plaster+dome.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUVmtfGa_O1IY6Eh5Hkw4cpIOE75gQsoXtpC0AdFrJpZ9E-mpULSpAIGSNQ1pmH7C9piybJXC5UTvlylS-igX4DV7bzxJllf5By-SQi9CeEZlLmsAYjjGMUUAPSnb-mG2wZnM4yqvmdk/s1600/Plaster+dome.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>Indeed the entire structure is concrete and steel based with a very (modern) veneer of marble. It hides his secret well.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc4lpySlPfKc0bBbooooBHtQd30kQVX-zpWxTcchQH7K29sHYDqeaXEGHXWy7oNjSYaEbeuaKtLFvy3ePPt5-WTYh1rAsouByu6Uin2NqXJ1VgFTPgaYePmPlMw0y66ynEkdJS76BAOs/s1600/sculpture+courts.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc4lpySlPfKc0bBbooooBHtQd30kQVX-zpWxTcchQH7K29sHYDqeaXEGHXWy7oNjSYaEbeuaKtLFvy3ePPt5-WTYh1rAsouByu6Uin2NqXJ1VgFTPgaYePmPlMw0y66ynEkdJS76BAOs/s1600/sculpture+courts.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>On either side of the rotunda are 2 skylit sculpture courts. As throughout the museum most spaces on the piano nobile are daylit by large skylights.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGDBBmaIDCWVoGBiXm1rodKCYWns7nDu8J1VKHK5bClzxxTASsbFkiaYWTT7OZHoCy3tK8jfGYPGqEcAK0_HN-qVHEK3_KGitCovJh-co078GM7frHoWFlo2zGQaEeOhmrrNymySnMrMY/s1600/overdoor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGDBBmaIDCWVoGBiXm1rodKCYWns7nDu8J1VKHK5bClzxxTASsbFkiaYWTT7OZHoCy3tK8jfGYPGqEcAK0_HN-qVHEK3_KGitCovJh-co078GM7frHoWFlo2zGQaEeOhmrrNymySnMrMY/s1600/overdoor.JPG" width="286" /></a></div> The building itself is an encyclopedia on classical detailing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6D1vzQv-mO1isIUE18u2uOPLqFn67Jxws9ieKcYcQa-jgVsYg7TZlhrtC59oaT8BG6yuBMQbvu5aLyrBUGyqb7eA8eqc1psG9Kkbx4e78OkdZPMKcKpycUWnBfrgA76lbyVbL9jtv3E/s1600/brass+lantern.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6D1vzQv-mO1isIUE18u2uOPLqFn67Jxws9ieKcYcQa-jgVsYg7TZlhrtC59oaT8BG6yuBMQbvu5aLyrBUGyqb7eA8eqc1psG9Kkbx4e78OkdZPMKcKpycUWnBfrgA76lbyVbL9jtv3E/s1600/brass+lantern.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>I love this bronze lantern in one of the vestibules -notice the Greek key and architectural motifs.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UCDpHXOQwDa9vnr6jVVbO2cVmF3w8g6ikVH6vDbFRYtvN1qNn9BgMljyANr5o1GFnlfFPoQQwxNeef3OzJarFosGKP5zuy1bXx9CgXDdYVEn-BrlvTYCwZHbGGCEmxCds5mtVLWjTl0/s1600/stone+casing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UCDpHXOQwDa9vnr6jVVbO2cVmF3w8g6ikVH6vDbFRYtvN1qNn9BgMljyANr5o1GFnlfFPoQQwxNeef3OzJarFosGKP5zuy1bXx9CgXDdYVEn-BrlvTYCwZHbGGCEmxCds5mtVLWjTl0/s1600/stone+casing.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The openings in the galleries themselves are clad in different materials -here in Italian travertine with silk damask walls (dating to the 1980s)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1BXk9eGFtbPhEF8y8pQnX_ZzB-nJSJExNADI8H66p_vQQmX55P_Q-J9Y395klqRQFcFefNpidzqLb1AFvLA_ekR3LscsTRjQCIjZ6YKATH8YBG8VfI6nIAEkfe2Can1AZ7uHhW7RBSI/s1600/National+Gallery+of+art+tour.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1BXk9eGFtbPhEF8y8pQnX_ZzB-nJSJExNADI8H66p_vQQmX55P_Q-J9Y395klqRQFcFefNpidzqLb1AFvLA_ekR3LscsTRjQCIjZ6YKATH8YBG8VfI6nIAEkfe2Can1AZ7uHhW7RBSI/s1600/National+Gallery+of+art+tour.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Seen above the current chief architect for the museum, Susan Wertheim, talks to the group about the Pantheon influence in front of Panini's painting, <a href="http://www.nga.gov/content/ngaweb/Collection/art-object-page.165.html">Interior of the Pantheon</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic3So-nv30gmxdefdjgXNiBc9ZvauqVOswMExyXwFfjnbJ09hvPhXyw_Re1jhv7ErbHh2MDkKCNXJMTrRlJ7OL5r8KQ1flw4OUL4TZd_9-6DLLGl1hfXVSumSjRfLVthyunvTs_M_JJDg/s1600/column+capital+detail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic3So-nv30gmxdefdjgXNiBc9ZvauqVOswMExyXwFfjnbJ09hvPhXyw_Re1jhv7ErbHh2MDkKCNXJMTrRlJ7OL5r8KQ1flw4OUL4TZd_9-6DLLGl1hfXVSumSjRfLVthyunvTs_M_JJDg/s1600/column+capital+detail.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Speaking of classical detailing the ICAA has an upcoming lecture by <a href="http://theartofclassicaldetails.com/author.php">Phillip James Dodd</a> centered on his new book <a href="http://theartofclassicaldetails.com/">The Art of Classical Details</a> on Thursday, May 22nd - a fascinating lecture not to be missed!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYMgmaYx_qmgaYR4D4fRp3-SjsO8QWSbio_8tf__sOt8hzEShrM26pbCegsGdv4Pk4-TLtQOuuskEVMG7aBkwicr-bZDAPf3h2Y1d-2AAv9t5vdeALhkPX2IxpQJJNVtJvkIP-qz1WIY/s1600/The+art+of+Classical+Detailing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYMgmaYx_qmgaYR4D4fRp3-SjsO8QWSbio_8tf__sOt8hzEShrM26pbCegsGdv4Pk4-TLtQOuuskEVMG7aBkwicr-bZDAPf3h2Y1d-2AAv9t5vdeALhkPX2IxpQJJNVtJvkIP-qz1WIY/s1600/The+art+of+Classical+Detailing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Information and tickets to the lecture can be purchased from the website; look towards the bottom of the events page linked <a href="http://www.classicist-washington.org/chapter_events">HERE</a>. Hope to see you there!

John Russell Pope tour and an upcoming ICAA event

I recently had the honor to host a lunch time tour of the John Russell Pope designed National Gallery of Art for the Mid-Atlantic branch of...

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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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