Josephine M. Hagerty House, International Style residence in Cohasset, Massachusetts.
The Josephine M. Hagerty House is an International Style residence on the Cohasset coast, characterized by vertical board siding and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that frame views. The structure combines a three-story inland section with a single-story horizontal wing and south-facing deck.
The house was built in 1938 and marked Walter Gropius' first American commission after emigrating to the country. Gropius, who founded the Bauhaus School, brought his design philosophy directly to residential architecture through this project.
The house demonstrates how modernist principles were adapted for coastal living and continues to influence American residential design today. Visitors can observe how Bauhaus ideals were applied to a private home, rather than institutional buildings.
The site sits on rocky terrain and coastal access is limited, so wear sturdy footwear and proceed with care. Visiting is best during dry weather since the rocks can become slippery.
The foundation was protected with special salt-resistant cement to withstand the effects of coastal spray. This technical solution was necessary because the building sits directly on a rocky point jutting into the water.
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