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.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to