From the exhibition
Plate Illustrating Front Entrance of a Standard House
Hector Guimard, French, 1867–1942 · 1920

Hector Guimard's architectural drawing presents a geometric facade elevation for a standardized residential entrance. The design features a symmetrical composition with decorative brickwork patterns, a central arched doorway with ornamental detailing, and vertical paneling. Cross-sections and constructive details appear on the right and bottom margins, indicating practical building methods. Guimard, renowned for Paris's Art Nouveau metro entrances, here explores industrial-age housing standardization—a period concern as post-World War I reconstruction demanded efficient, replicable designs. The yellow-toned tracing paper and precise technical annotations reflect early modernist principles balancing aesthetic refinement with functional economy.
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