First Unitarian Church and School, Rochester, New York, Roof-structure and light-element sketches
Louis I. Kahn
American, born Estonia. 1901–1974
1969
A series of graphite studies on tracing paper in which Louis I. Kahn works out roof structures and light lanterns for his First Unitarian Church and School, testing how simple geometric forms bring daylight into the building.
Sparse, assured pencil strokes render blocky roof lanterns, vertical façades and tiny human figures for scale, the translucent tracing paper and creased edges giving the drawing an immediate, in‑progress intimacy.
The sheet exemplifies Kahn’s method of using hand drawing to explore mass, proportion and the choreography of natural light—an approach that helped redefine modern sacred architecture by making light a primary structural and spiritual element.
Medium
Graphite on tracing paper
Dimensions
12 x 25" (30.5 x 63.5 cm)
Classification
Department
Credit
Gift of the architect
Accession
379.1967
Palette
Art Terms
Exhibitions
