Greensborough

“In 1808, Greensborough (as was the spelling prior to 1895) was planned around a central courthouse square to succeed the nearby town of Guilford Court House as the county seat.” The first streets built within Greensboro were Elm, Greene, and Davie which intersected with Gaston, Market, and Sycamore. The court house was laid out at the center of the intersection between Market and Elm. During the time Morehead was governor, a new railroad line was added. The city began to vastly grow in size and soon became known as the “Gate City.”


The washstand stands within Governor Morehead’s home, Blandwood, as a symbol for growth and change. The tiles on the foreground of the stand resemble the intersecting streets with a central point. In Greensboro that point would be the courthouse. The washstand is heavy and sturdy, reflecting the power and prestige of Governor Morehead and his influence on Greensboro. The city has grown to become the 3rd largest city in North Carolina. Just as important is how the washstand has grown and evolved to become a design statement within a home.

Compare: Notting Hill Townshouses in Kensington, London: This area also reflects the growing change within one city. The townhouses seem to show the same style of design from their facade to the washstand. Simplicity and tradition have always remained intact within London. The washstand represents the same morals with the room for change.

Contrast: Prince Gong's Mansion, Lion Alley, Japan: Never would the washstand be seen in an area such as this. Their principles of design are about being in touch with nature and saving space. The size of the washstand would take up to much room and be a waste of space. This mansion is more open and fluid, but the city around it is very tight. This is another reason why the washstand would never be seen in a place like Japan.

Refrences: www.wikipedia.com