Howlett Residence Ground Floor Plan - Walter Gropius

An original architectural floor plan for the Howlett Residence in Belmont, Massachusetts, drafted by Walter Gropius in 1945-1946.

This architectural drawing presents the ground floor plan for the Howlett Residence in Belmont, Massachusetts, designed by Walter Gropius. Executed between 1945 and 1946, the document reflects the functionalist approach characteristic of the Bauhaus founder during his tenure in the United States. The plan details the spatial organisation of the residence, including the living room, dining area, kitchen, and garage, all arranged to maximise flow and efficiency.

The drawing employs standard architectural notation, with precise lines indicating walls, doorways, and structural elements. Annotations provide specific measurements and room designations, maintaining a clean, technical aesthetic. The scale is noted as one quarter inch to one foot, a common convention for residential blueprints of the period. The composition is utilitarian, focusing on the clarity of the floor layout rather than decorative flourish.

As a primary document of mid-century residential architecture, this plan offers insight into the domestic design philosophy of Gropius. The layout prioritises the relationship between interior spaces and the exterior environment, a hallmark of his approach to modern living. The inclusion of the garage and service areas alongside the primary living spaces demonstrates the integration of modern convenience into the domestic sphere. This print provides a view into the drafting process of a significant architectural project, capturing the rigour and precision required in the development of a private residence during the post-war era.