Goose-Pie House, English Baroque house in Whitehall, London
Description
Goose-Pie House is a two-story English Baroque building on Whitehall in London featuring seven bays across its main facade. The central three bays displayed rustication on both floors, while the outer sections projected outward with distinct rectangular windows.
History
Architect John Vanbrugh designed and built this residence in 1701 using materials salvaged from the Whitehall Palace, which had burned down in 1698. The house thus became part of the reconstruction efforts following the palace fire.
Culture
The building gets its name from Jonathan Swift's 1703 poem, which commented on its unusual mix of varying heights and projecting elements. This distinctive character made it a recognizable landmark along Whitehall.
Practical
The house sits prominently on Whitehall facing the Great Court, making it accessible from the main thoroughfare. Visitors can view the facade and its architectural details from street level.
Did you know?
The building earned its nickname from the odd asymmetry and irregular projecting elements of its facade, which amused contemporary observers. This quirky design made it one of the most talked-about structures of its era.
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