Property of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Gropius, Lincoln, Massachusetts | architect: Walter Gropius

9/27/2025 12:05:00 PM

Walter Gropius:

THE HOUSE plan responds well to the various claims of family life. It had been planned from the beginning not to create a "picture" or to perpetuate a status quo-however charming-but as a living organism, ready to serve as background for constantly changing activities. We think that the house fits us like a sweater, except for the kitchen which does not now quite answer our present requirements. It was laid out under the assumption that we would have a maid. But as servants often create more problems than they solve, we find that the maidless household suits us better. We now wish we had a broad counter between kitchen and dining room which would permit the family or guests to serve themselves conveniently and allow for a more open communication between the living area and the kitchen. The Kliegl light in the ceiling above the dining table is most successful. Even simple glassware and pottery look glamorous in the brilliant pinpoint illumination. Attention is centered on table and food, while the eyes remain protected from the glare.