Temple of Vesta in Plaster of Paris model by François Fouquet. Image © Sir John Soane's Museum
The Sir John Soane’s Museum is often cited as a seminal inspiration for architects of all generations. Located in London’s Lincoln’s Inn Fields, the house—designed by Soane (born in 1753), architect of the Bank of England—is a remarkable biographical bricolage of unique spaces, objects and ideas. Kept exactly as it was at the time of Soane’s death in 1837, the museum is packed with paintings, sculpture, furniture and drawings – all curated and composed by the architect himself to “enhance their poetic qualities.”
Soane’s ingenious design for the courts in Westminster. Image © Sir John Soane's Museum
The house and collection was gifted to the United Kingdom upon the condition that “it should be preserved as it was at that time and that it should be kept open and free for the public’s inspiration and education.” Now, using 3D technology to scan and digitize a number of the museum’s rooms and objects on display (including the famous model room, and King Seti I’s sarcophagus), curious minds no longer need to visit London to get to know the museum. Discover it virtually, here.
Sig Nordal 