Stowe House

Stowe House is located in Buckinghamshire, England. Construction began in 1677 with major renovations and additions continuing until 1779.

Shown above is the south façade. What do you see that went right?

Try to get as many items as you can before viewing the answers below.

• The building is repeatedly subdivided into sections until human-scale elements are achieved.
• Specifically, the whole is broken into an odd number of sub-masses (5 in this case), which are further broken up into an odd number of bays (3 and 7 in this case).
• The whole is visually balanced (achieved through symmetry).
• The sub-masses and bays are symmetrical.
• Load bearing components align vertically and extend up through the balustrade piers.
• Openings align vertically and extend up through the balusters.
• Aligned horizontal mouldings tie sub-masses together.
• A strong focal point creates focus in the middle sub-mass, and softer focal points create secondary focus in the framing sub-masses.
• Openings are vertical rectangles.
• Correct Corinthian and Ionic proportions and entablatures. Modillions are centered above columns.
• Even number of columns and an odd number of openings.
• Consistent arch shape (all round).
• All sub-masses have a top (in this case a balustrade).
• The lower level is slightly built out and rusticated to ground the building and provide a strong visual foundation.