The Soane Museum

John Soane was clearly influenced in his attitudes toward basic structural elements by the "Essai sur L'architecture," a fundamental study of classical construction published in 1753. This work by a Jesuit priest, L'Abbe Laugier, declared that only the structural parts of building were truly the architectural parts, so that the column and entablature, together with the pediment and roof, were considered superior to the wall, which, with everything else, was declared an "artistic license." In this space behind the curtain wall, we can see these theories in action. The control of space by disposing classical elements in a highly original and free manner is truly remarkable. With the house, no opportunity for the playing with space is lost, so that its interior is often confusing or inconsequential.