In Praise of the Classics ~ The Lutyens Bench

There's a scene in the classic 1940 film The Philadelphia Story where Jimmy Stewart and Ruth Hussey alight from their very cool car and approach the front door of the Lord residence. On either side of the entry portico are a pair of Lutyens benches.

Be still my heart!

Several years ago, I read an article about garden design and the writer blasted the use of Lutyens benches as cliche. Ouch.

Bench in the garden of Sissinghurst, designed by Edwin Lutyens

photo by Hans Bernhard

Just who was Lutyens? And, what's so great about his bench?
Sir Edwin Landseer Lutyens was an English architect best known for "imaginatively adapting traditional architectural styles to the requirements of his era." His professional partnership with Gertrude Jekyll celebrated an eclectic mix of formal with informal, rough with smooth, light and dark, order with abundance and, in so doing, redefined the "English Garden." In 1930, working with Vita Sackville-West at Sissinghurst Castle, they transformed the gardens, which are now managed by the National Trust, and inspired generations of gardeners. Their work was approachable, beautiful, interesting. 

Here's my thought: If we look back on the history of architecture and interior design, some designs are so enduring that they are re-imagined by succeeding generations who love them just as much as when they were "new." The Corinthian column, the caryatid, the klismos chair, the French bergere, the Barcelona chair, etc.

I am not taking about counterfeiting a Fendi bag or Louis Vuitton suitcase or handbag. That is, of course, what the death penalty is for. When we embrace the glories of past genius in design and architecture, we don't copy, we pay homage.

In my courtyard, I have a pair of plantation teak Lutyens benches. I like the symmetry of the space. When I tried a couple of wonderful but not matching benches in the space, it made my eyebrow twitch.

Mostly, I like the idea that "just plain folk" can have and enjoy items that at one time only the truly rich could afford. Having beauty around you is very soul satisfying. And, owning a classic like a Lutyens bench, well, it feels somehow very democratic.

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurst-castle/

Day 13 Everyday Grateful ~ God, it's a gorgeous day.
The birds are so chirpy, they practically drown out any other sound. Happy!