LESCAZE HOUSE | William Lescaze

The William Lescaze House, completed in 1934 in Manhattan, stands as a pioneering example of modernist residential architecture in the United States. Designed by Swiss-born architect William Lescaze as both his home and studio, the building introduced many elements of the European International Style to American architecture. Its clean, rectilinear form, flat roof, and smooth white facade contrast sharply with the surrounding traditional brownstones. Notably, the house features horizontal ribbon windows and glass block walls, allowing for ample natural light while maintaining privacy. The use of industrial materials such as glass and steel emphasizes functionality and modernity. Inside, the layout is efficient and open, reflecting modernist ideals of simplicity and integration of form and function. The house broke away from ornamental design trends of its time, setting a precedent for modern urban living. It remains an important landmark in architectural history for its forward-thinking design and influence on mid-century modernism.