James Blake: Architect, Educator, and Author
James Blake, born Peter Jost Blach in Berlin, Germany, on September 20, 1920, and who died December 5, 2006, was a prominent figure in the world of architecture, known for his work as an architect, editor, educator, and author. A proponent of the modernist school of architecture, Blake left a lasting impact through his designs, writings, and teaching.
Early Life and Education
Forced to leave his native Germany in 1933 due to the rise of the Nazi Party, Blake immigrated to England. He pursued his education at the University of London, earning a degree in mathematics in 1938, followed by a year of architectural studies at the Regent Street Polytechnic School of Architecture. A scholarship enabled him to study architecture at the University of Pennsylvania under the tutelage of Louis Kahn, graduating in 1941. He later obtained a second degree in architecture from the Pratt Institute in 1949. In 1943 Blake joined the Army and returned to his native Berlin in 1945 as one of the first troops to occupy the city with the collapse of the Third Reich.
Career
Before World War II, Blake contributed to the Architectural Forum. After serving in the military, he became a U.S. citizen and changed his surname from Blach to Blake. He moved to New York City, where he connected with artist Jackson Pollack, who influenced his architectural concepts.
In 1948, Blake joined the Museum of Modern Art, working in its architecture and design department. Two years later, he returned to Architectural Forum, progressing from associate editor in 1950 to managing editor in 1961, and finally serving as editor in chief from 1964 to 1972. Following the magazine's closure, he established Architectural Plus, which lasted for three years.
Architectural Work
Blake was actively involved in architectural design. He partnered with Julian Neski in the firm Peter Blake & Julian Neski in the late 1950s and with James Blake in James Blake & Peter Blake from 1964 to 1971. During this time, he designed structures such as the Pin Wheel House in Long Island and a theater at Vanderbilt University. Blake favored simple, clean lines and functionality, aligning with the modernist principle that architecture should enhance living through good design.
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Notable Projects
Blake's architectural portfolio includes a variety of residential and commercial projects. Some notable examples include:
- 1949 - House in Locust Valley NY: Blake's thesis project.
- 254 Rose Hill Road, Water Mill NY: This house underwent several renovations and ownership changes.
- 49 Huntington Lane, Water Mill NY: Designed in collaboration with Julian Neski.
- 1956 - The J. B. Cahn Alterations, East Hampton NY.
- 1956 - The Winslow Addition, 1311 Flying Point Road, Water Mill NY: This project involved several remodels and additions.
- 1957 - The John and Violet Martinez House, 70 Conant Valley Road, Pound Ridge NY: Designed with Julian Neski.
- 478 Jobs Lane, Water Mill NY: This house was sold multiple times and underwent renovations.
- Around 1958 - Terrace House, aka Calsi-Crete House: Designed with Julian Neski.
- Around 1959 - The Evaline Ness House, Surf City NJ: Designed with Julian Neski.
- 329 Sagaponack Road, Bridgehampton NY: Designed with Julian Neski.
- 102 Surfside Avenue, Montauk NY: Designed with Julian Neski, with renovations by Blake around 2001.
- 1961 - The A. J. Warner House, Fire Island NY: Designed with Julian Neski.
- 48 Old Pound Road, Pound Ridge NY: Designed with Julian Neski.
- 1962 - The Tobey Barn, Amagansett NY: Designed with Julian Neski.
- 1968 - The Eckstein House, Kings Point or Great Neck NY: Designed with James Baker and Dorothy (Dusty) Alexander.
- 1994 - The Tamulevich Renovation, Branford CT.
- 113 Mott Road, Frelinghuysen Township NJ: Blake's last house.
Writing and Teaching
In addition to his architectural practice, Blake was a prolific writer and educator. He articulated his architectural philosophy in books such as The Master Builders: Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright (1960) and God’s Own Junkyard: The Planned Deterioration of America’s Landscape (1964).
Blake held several academic positions, including chair of the Boston Architectural Center from 1975 to 1979 and professor and chair of the department of architecture and planning at the Catholic University of America from 1979 until his retirement in 1991.
Architectural Education at The Catholic University of America
The architecture program at Catholic University has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. In 1911, architect Frederick Vernon Murphy established a small Department of Architecture. Over the years, the department grew and evolved, moving through various locations on campus.
The Edward M. Crough Center for Architectural Studies
In 1989, the architecture program found a permanent home in the renovated former gymnasium, named the Edward M. Crough Center for Architectural Studies. This renovation provided a dedicated space for the program and fostered a sense of community among students and faculty.
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The Crough Center features state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, a model shop, and a computer-aided design laboratory. The building's design incorporates sustainable elements, such as a two-story commons with a continuous skylight that provides natural light.
Curriculum and Opportunities
The architecture program at Catholic University offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for professional practice. The program emphasizes design, history, theory, and technology. Students have opportunities to participate in foreign study programs, design-build projects, and research initiatives.
Read also: Explore JCU's History and Programs
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