Ontwerp voor de plattegrond van Villa Grada c. 1856 - 1870

Maria Vos made this floor plan for Villa Grada as a preliminary sketch using graphite pencil on paper. These are traditional drawing materials, but even in a quick sketch like this, the physical properties of the graphite and paper inform the image. You can see how Vos used the side of the pencil to shade broad areas, establishing the form of rooms. The grain of the paper gives the drawing a textured feel, even though the lines themselves are precise. Consider how the inherent qualities of the materials influence the way we perceive space and structure. Although the labor involved might appear minimal, such sketches involved considerable skilled draughtsmanship and architectural understanding. It is a reminder that even the most seemingly simple drawing involves a complex interplay of material and making. These plans were ultimately part of a bigger system of property and consumption, as the Villa would become a place of residence. Ultimately, this sketch serves as a reminder that architecture relies on craft skills and the careful consideration of materials.