We recently saw the exhibition “Henri Labrouste’s Precision and Liberty” at MoMA. His work was on display for the first time ever in United States and first nearly in 40 years worldwide. Therefore, it was a late introduction of his work to many architects of our generation. As you stroll through his large scale hand drawings and renderings, you inevitably make a comparison in between today’s practice of architectural representation and how it used to be during Labrouste’s lifetime. The salt ingenuity and perfection in the drawings are mesmerizing. You find yourself analyzing each pen stroke, tracing perfectly invisible construction lines, noticing the geometrical accuracy in his shading and smoothness in tonal changes. Even the color combination in between his light beige archival paper and pink tone that he preferred for poche makes a huge difference in your eye.
Coming back to the office your lightweight copier paper and black plotter ink will probably disappoint you more than ever.
https://www.moma.org/explore/inside_out/2013/05/08/henri-labroustes-precision-and-liberty-2/