Is it possible for a house to be a work of art? Here at 9 West Heath Road stands Schreiber House. This architectural masterpiece, designed by James Gowan in the early 1960s, challenges conventional notions of what a home can be. Schreiber House wasn’t just a commission for Gowan. It marked a pivotal moment in his career, his first major project after ending his partnership with the renowned architect James Stirling. Chaim Schreiber, a leading furniture manufacturer of the time, commissioned the house. It was Gowan’s first solo project and arguably his most significant work. The house is a striking example of Gowan’s distinct style which blended elements of brutalism with a nod to early Dutch modernism. The use of blue rustic Staffordshire bricks, a rather industrial material, adds an unexpected warmth to the house’s facade. Look closely and you’ll notice the meticulous attention to detail. The house’s design features a unique planning grid system, visible both inside and out, creating a harmonious rhythm of brick and glass. It’s a testament to Gowan’s belief that “architecture is not just about buildings, it’s about making places”. Completed in 1964, Schreiber House is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents a daring vision brought to life, a harmonious blend of art and function that continues to captivate architecture enthusiasts even today.
Southfields Methodist Church
Curiosity stirred within the heart of Southfields as a new chapter began. Southfields Methodist Church held its first public service