Lalique Galleries, London 1930's; Picture of the Week 16 August 2013




Photo by Bill Houghton-Evans C late 1930's

This and one or two other photographs of modernist buildings, taken by Bill Houghton-Evans in the 1930's, mark the beginnings of a young man's interest in architecture, before WWII. 

Breves' new Lalique Galleries opened in the Autumn of 1934 at 2, Basil Street (at the Knightsbridge end of Sloane Street), London, S.W.3. The Times wrote a useful description:-

"The ornamental glass associated with M Rene Lalique deserves recognition as the first attempt in Europe to express the full possibilities of glass as a plastic medium, and Messrs Breves, its agents in London, are to be congratulated on the general effect of their new galleries. A plain shop front faced with travertine, with the names in white metal above, opens to a deeply recessed window which allows a clear view of the whole interior. As far as possible all the working features such as doors, and the decorations of the new galleries are constructed of Lalique glass, in association with stainless steel."

René Jules Lalique (1860 - 1945) was a French designer best known for his creations of glass art and wares including figures and busts for expensive cars, perfume bottles, vases, chandeliers, jewellery and chandeliers. He also made more modest pieces including small ornaments and ashtrays. Lalique's glassware firm remains successful today.

Bill Evans was in the army until 1945, serving in North Africa and Italy, then he attended Nottingham College of Art where he studied Architecture. He practiced as an architect for many years and was also a much respected author, lecturer, town planner and teacher at the University of Leeds.

Breves Galleries in Basil Street no longer exist, but have been briefly immortalised in Michael Holroyd's book Basil Street Blues.