Review of Sir John Soane’s Museum


This museum is not worth visiting because John Thorn collected and stacked cultural relics in a traditional way around the 19th century, but because of its historical architecture and design value.

His design is naturally unique as an architect with a Royal Academy of Arts background. The display and decoration in the museum show off a vital element but also convey an aesthetic feeling. The space structure supporting this display and the use of many skylights and glass in the room have to be mentioned (Fig. 1: the Dome Area, the dome glass is not curved, but uses illusion). The most obvious thing in the space is the Picture Room, and the staff will demo and explain: A movable panel is designed to store more paintings and design drafts (Figure 3: Open the first floor) and connect with the upper underground space behind the wall (Figure 4: Open all). In many other places, you can find inconspicuous mirrors to add a sense of emptiness.

The light is from beginning to end. The skylights of each room, even a large part of the lighting, rely on natural light. This concept was applied in Dulwich Picture Gallery, designed by John Thorn, becoming the first gallery in England to use skylight and opening the trend.


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