Introducing Rosie: meet our new architectural designer
We are delighted to welcome Rosie, our new Architectural Designer to Nancy Gouldstone Architects.
Rosie first joined our practice during a placement as part of her architecture degree at the University of Edinburgh a few years ago, and we are very pleased to have her return to the studio.
Since graduating, she has gained experience working on the sensitive renovation of Grade II listed buildings and the design of new Neoclassical country houses, developing her knowledge of traditional craftsmanship, classical detailing and the relationship between historic and contemporary architecture.
Alongside her work at NGA, Rosie is currently undertaking her Part 2 architectural studies at the London School of Architecture.
We asked Rosie about the buildings, architectural periods and design objects that have shaped her interests and approach to design.
A House for Essex by Grayson Perry and FAT architects
What is your favourite modern building, and why?
My favourite modern building seems to change every few months, at the moment, it’s A House for Essex by Grayson Perry and FAT Architecture. Designed as a chapel dedicated to the fictional life of Julie Cope, an imagined “everywoman” from Essex, the house is simultaneously a piece of art, a celebration of Essex identity and a playful reinterpretation of the county’s folk architecture and churches.I might be biased as I’m from nearby and I appreciate that the design definitely won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but I love the Perry’s attention to detail. For me, the details you can walk past without noticing, but which reward you when you do, are what make great architecture. For example the 2,000 handmade ceramic tiles are pieces of art in in themselves.
I also love the way the house plays with form. Its Russian-doll-like arrangement of extrusions challenges what a house is expected to look like and proves that residential architecture can be playful and theatrical.
The hall of mirrors at the Palace of Versailles
What is your favourite historic building, and why?
Despite its controversial history, I’ve always been fascinated by the Palace of Versailles. It’s such an extraordinary building, not just for its sheer extravagance, but for the almost unbelievable world that Louis XIV created around it.
While the decoration is, admittedly, quite extravagant, I’m fascinated by how Louis XIV used architecture to construct his public image and reinforce his power. The gardens demonstrate his control over nature, while the Grand Canal and its reflections extend the palace into the landscape. Inside, the Hall of Mirrors creates an almost theatrical setting for the King to be seen and celebrated as the “Sun King”.
Louis XIV is definitely not a personal role model (for obvious reasons!), but Versailles is a brilliant demonstration of the power architecture can have over how we perceive people, institutions and ourselves and how our homes are extensions over ourselves.
Park Crescent, Regent’s Park, Georgian era terrace.
Which period of architectural history do you admire most?I’ve always had a soft spot for Georgian architecture.
I love wandering around London and looking up at the beautiful terraces, with their elegant proportions, sash windows, intricate mouldings and beautifully detailed doorways. There’s something about the rhythm and symmetry of Georgian streets that makes them feel so effortlessly elegant, even when the individual houses are quite modest.
I particularly love how much attention was given to proportion and detail. From the delicate glazing bars of a sash window to the craftsmanship of a staircase or the decorative plasterwork of a ceiling, everything feels carefully considered. Even the simplest details can be incredibly beautiful.
There’s something very grand about Georgian architecture, but at the same time, these houses can feel wonderfully warm and lived in. I think it’s that balance between formality and comfort that makes them so special. I also love how adaptable they are - even now a days they can still work really well for normal every day life.
Marianne Brandt’s silver tea infuser, 1924
Is there a particular piece of furniture or design object you would love to own?
I have a slight obsession with mid-century modern furniture and the slightly earlier Bauhaus designs. I love how it can be playful and slightly funky while still feeling sophisticated and elegant.
One object I particularly admire is Marianne Brandt’s silver tea set, designed at the Bauhaus in 1924. I love the way such simple geometric forms become something so sculptural. The polished silver, contrasting ebony and beautifully considered proportions make it feel almost like a miniature piece of architecture.
More importantly, it was designed to last which I think in the age of over consumption is so important. The craftsmanship, considered details and quality of materials make many pieces feel as relevant today as when they were first made.I have far too many furniture warehouses saved on Instagram, although I think bringing home a vintage dining set on the Tube might be pushing my commitment to mid-century design a little too far.