Section Through House

James Gowan (1923-2012) was a Scottish architect and teacher. Gowan formed an architectural practice with James Stirling in 1956, and together they became known for their radical post-modernist designs. Their most famous work was the Le Corbusier-influenced University of Leicester Engineering Building, and their practice would inspire an entire generation of architects.

This print shows a section through a house in the East Hanningfield housing project, with prefabricated mechanical services highlighted in bold colours.

Gowan was interested in the exercise of making architecture out of prefabricated elements. By putting in place constraints, the design of a house became a sort of game, a notion that seems to reveal itself in this drawing.

As a technical work, these colours serve to draw the viewer's eye to the important elements in the drawing, but the acid-bright primary palette gives it a sense of fun and approachability, qualities that permeate Gowans architecture.

The original work is held by Drawing Matter, an organisation that explores the role of drawing in architectural thought and practice. We have collaborated with them to bring highlights from their extraordinary collection to a wider audience. Explore Drawing Matter here. 

A Giclée fine art print on 310gsm Hahnemühle Hemp paper.

Our beautiful frames are handmade in Somerset, using sustainably sourced FSC timber and acid-free, conservation mount board to protect your print.

To complement this print, we have carefully selected some hand painted and waxed frame finishes for you to choose from. Alternatively, explore our complete collection of finishes here, or provide us with your own.

Delivery: 2-3 weeks