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Sir John Soane
Sir John Soane, born in 1753, is one of England’s most influential architects. Soane is known for his innovative designs including Pitzhanger Manor, the Bank of England, Sir John Soane’s Museum and Dulwich Picture Gallery continues to inspire and educate visitors to this day.
Early Life and Education
Sir John Soane, was born on September 10, 1753, in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. The son of a bricklayer, Soane’s early years were humble, but his talent and passion for architecture set him on a path to greatness. He studied at the Royal Academy in London, where he won the prestigious Royal Academy Gold Medal in 1776. This accolade marked the beginning of a distinguished career.
Architectural Career
Soane’s architectural style is characterized by its innovative use of light, space, and classical elements. After his education, he traveled to Italy on a Grand Tour, where he was deeply influenced by ancient Roman architecture. Upon his return to England, Soane embarked on a series of ambitious projects that cemented his reputation.
One of his most notable commissions was the Bank of England, where he served as the official architect from 1788 to 1833. Soane transformed the bank’s design, incorporating his signature use of natural light and creating a series of domes and skylights that became hallmarks of his work. His design philosophy emphasised functionality and beauty.
Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery
Among Soane’s significant projects is Pitzhanger Manor, located in Ealing, London. Purchased by Soane in 1800, Pitzhanger Manor was initially intended as a country retreat for his family and a statement of his architectural prowess. Soane extensively remodelled the manor between 1800 and 1804, transforming it into a showcase of his innovative design principles.
Pitzhanger Manor reflects Soane’s love for classical architecture, featuring elements such as arches, vaults, and a striking use of light and shadow. The gallery, added during the renovation, housed Soane’s extensive art collection, including works by Sir Joshua Reynolds and J.M.W. Turner.
Personal Life
In 1784, Soane married Eliza Smith, and the couple had two children. Despite professional success, Soane’s personal life was marred by tragedy. His eldest son, John, died young, and his relationship with his surviving son, George, was fraught with conflict. These personal hardships influenced Soane’s later work, imbuing his designs with a poignant sense of reflection and introspection.
Legacy and Influence
Sir John Soane’s legacy lives on in his architectural achievements including Pitzhanger Manor, the Bank of England, the Sir John Soane’s Museum and Dulwich Gallery. His innovative approach to design and his commitment to education have left a lasting impact on the field of architecture. The Royal Academy, where he once studied, continues to honour his legacy through the annual Sir John Soane Lecture series.
Come and visit us and find out more about Soane and his time at Pitzhanger Manor.
Instagram @pitzhanger
Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger is back! Tune in this Sunday at 8pm on BBC One to uncover the exciting artefacts discovered by the Antiques Roadshow team.
This week, highlights include a unique engagement ring, a note written by Oscar Wilde, and an Olympic medal from the 1930s. Plus, Fiona Bruce explores pieces from the country’s largest collection of Martinware, once housed at Pitzhanger, and delves into the fascinating stories behind the artists who created them.
We can`t wait for you to join us and discover the incredible treasures found at Pitzhanger featured on Antiques Roadshow!
BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Second Episode: 15 September 2024
🕔 8pm
📺 BBC One
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #AntiquesRoadshow #BBCOne #Ealing #SirJohnSoane #JMWTurner #HistoricHouse #ArtAndHistory
Discover our new exhibition ‘Southall Resists 2024’ opening 21 September.
‘Southall Resists 2024’ is an inspiring exhibition showcasing silk paintings, objects, and a film created by local children through the Young Voices programme. These artworks honour Southall’s rich history and its community’s enduring fight against racism. This exhibition is particularly timely, following the recent riots in the UK, reminding us of the need for resilience and unity in our communities.
Come and explore the powerful stories of Southall’s past and its ongoing journey.
Southall Resists 2024
📅 Opens 21 September
📍 Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
🎫 Access with General Admission
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#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design#Architecture #NationalArtPass
#HistoricHouses #Southall #SouthallResists #SouthallRiots
With the start of the school year just begun and summer coming to an end, what better way to spend the weekend than at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery!
This September we have a wide range of exciting workshops and exhibitions for all ages. Come along to our free with general admission guided tours where you can learn more about Pitzhanger and its narrative that spans centuries. For children aged 1-5 we have our Mini Makers sessions which will allow them to unleash their creativity with hands-on art making. Don’t forgot our ongoing exhibitions including Grayson Perry, Pigments and Photons, From Waste to Wonder and Southall Resists 2024 which opens on 21st!
Don’t worry if you aren’t able to make it to Pitzhanger this month, you are able to watch Pitzhanger on Antiques Roadshow on BBC iPlayer now!
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@alanmeasles
@binet.helene
@antoni.malinowski
@parkroyaldesigndistrict
@a_beginners_
@gracemccarthy_design
@victorpedrosaceramics
@davidsamuel_rarekind
@blast.studio
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #SirJohnSoane #WhatsOn
Today marks 224 years since Sir John Soane was the official owner of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery!
At the time, Ealing was a quiet village 8 miles outside of London, known for its orchards, pastures, and market gardens that supplied the city with hay, fruit, milk, and vegetables. Pitzhanger previously belonged to the Gurnell family, bankers who had commissioned an extension by George Dance. Soane, captivated by the design, fell in love with the property and quickly secured the purchase when it went on the market in 1800 for £4,500. He demolished the original house, keeping only the extension, and transformed it into the stunning building we see today!
If you could own a historic manor, what changes would you make?
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@soanemusuem
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #SirJohnSoane
Antiques are taking over Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery🏺🕰️!
Following our recent feature on Antiques Roadshow, we have been on the lookout for antiques throughout Pitzhanger. Take a look at the pictures above and see if you can spot the antiques and artefacts hidden throughout Pitzhanger in the tapestries on our ongoing Grayson Perry exhibition, ‘The Vanity of Small Differences’, and the newly opened ‘Pigments and Photons’ by Antoni Malinowski and Hélène Binet. We also have antiques dotted throughout the Manor, check out this pair of torchères created in the 18th century made for holding oil lamps.
Visit us to discover more antique treasures in person! And don’t forget to stay tuned for our upcoming Antiques Roadshow episodes—details coming soon! 📺
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
#PitzhangerManor #AntiquesRoadshow #GraysonPerry #ArtExhibition
Wedding bells are ringing at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery!
Almost 240 years ago, in 1784, Sir John Soane, the architect of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, married Eliza Soane at Christ Church, Southwark. Eliza played an essential role in the history of Pitzhanger. As a confidante and source of inspiration, her influence can be seen in many aspects of his work, including its architectural design. They had two sons, John and George, who caused the couple considerable grief. George ultimately became estranged from his parents after a series of personal failures and conflicts, while John died young—both events were a deep blow to the couple. These tragedies strained their marriage, but they remained united in their grief. After Eliza’s death in 1815, John dedicated much of his work to her.
Come see how their strong relationship, marked by love and loss, impacted John’s creative expression at Pitzhanger. Want to get married at Pitzhanger yourself get in touch with private.hire@pitzhanger.org.uk
@pitzhangerevents
@soanemuseum
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #SirJohnSoane #ElizaSoane
Don’t miss our September upcoming panel discussion on sustainability in architecture at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, part of our Thursday Lates series. This engaging event brings together leading experts from Blast Studio, Arup, and FCBStudios to explore the future of environmentally responsible design.
Learn how Blast Studio transforms discarded materials into functional art, hear Kathryn Firth of Arup discuss the sustainable redevelopment of The Phoenix in Lewes and a productive, circular local economy, and discover Andy Theobald’s insights on the Eden Project Dundee’s regenerative potential. Your ticket includes access to this thought-provoking event and extended hours to explore our exhibitions.
Come and enjoy fulfilling Sir John Soane’s vision of Pitzhanger as a place for architectural learning. We look forward to seeing you there!
Panel Discussion with FCBStudios, Arup and Blast Studio: Sustainability in Architecture
📅 Thursday, 5 September 2024
⏰ 5–8pm
🎟️ Free with General Admission
📍 Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@parkroyaldesigndistrict
@blast.studio
@arupgroup
@fcbstudios
@bellapugliauk
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design#Architecture #NationalArtPass#HistoricHouses
🚨 Missed the BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger? Don`t worry! You can still catch up on the first episode, filmed at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, on BBC iPlayer. 📺✨
In this episode, Fiona Bruce explores Sir John Soane`s architectural masterpiece and the fascinating stories of the notable figures who once graced these halls, including the legendary artist JMW Turner. 🎨🏛️
What was your favourite find? Was it the heroic pigeon Mary`s medal or something else? Tell us in the comments below! 🐦💬
After watching, why not visit us in person? Come explore the history, art, and architecture that make Pitzhanger so special. We can`t wait to welcome you! 🌟 Plan your visit with the link in bio.
BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📺 First episode is now available on BBC iPlayer
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #AntiquesRoadshow #BBCOne #Ealing #SirJohnSoane #JMWTurner #HistoricHouse #ArtAndHistory #MaryThePigeon
Check out what’s on at Pitzhanger this week? Visit us today on the Bank Holiday Monday!
📆 29 August
🗣️Pitzhanger Guided Tour, Noon–1pm
Explore Pitzhanger’s rich history with our guided tours. Delve into Sir John Soane’s architectural brilliance.
🎫 Free with General Admission
🗣️Bill Wyman: ‘Billy in the Wars’ & ‘Bill Wyman’s Chelsea’, 6–7pm
Join Bill Wyman to hear about his extraordinary career, and his two most recent books.
🎫 £15
📆 30 August
👶Mini Makers: School Holiday Editions
We welcome children aged 1 to 8 years with child-led activities and artmaking, including building and painting.
🎫 £10 Each Session
🌳Spiral Dance Movement Sessions: The Magic and Majesty of Trees, 12.30–2pm
Organic, accessible and creative movement influenced by both Western and Eastern disciplines, exploring our relationship with trees.
🎫 £10 Each Session
Click the link in our bio to find out more and book!
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@bill_wyman_official
@ealingbookfestival
@ajlgenevier
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #WhatsOn #LondonSummer #Shakespeare
🌟 Don’t miss the premiere of BBC Antiques Roadshow Series 47 tonight at 8pm on BBC One, filmed right here at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery! 📺 This first episode, hosted by Fiona Bruce, explores the extraordinary life of Sir John Soane and his illustrious circle, including JMW Turner. Delve into the creativity and intellect that thrived within the walls of this architectural masterpiece in Ealing.
Feeling inspired? Join us tomorrow, Bank Holiday Monday, 26 August from 10am to 5pm! 🏛️ Discover the history, art, and architecture that make Pitzhanger a must-visit destination.
Stay tuned for more episodes filmed at our venue—subscribe to our newsletter for updates! Link in bio.
BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 First Episode: 25 August 2024
🕔 8pm
📺 BBC One
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #AntiquesRoadshow #BBCOne #Ealing #SirJohnSoane #JMWTurner #HistoricHouse #ArtAndHistory #BankHoliday #VisitUs
When the Soane family lived at Pitzhanger Manor, Walpole park was there 28-acre estate. They held many social events which included dinners, strolls on the grounds, evening parties and ‘dejeune à la fourchette’ luncheons, which often attracted one to two hundred guests. These entertainments were considered exceptionally grand for the time.
Whilst renovating Pitzhanger Manor, Sir John Soane created ‘roman ruins’ inspired by Greek and Roman architecture. Although these ruins are no longer visible, they were once a great source of amusement for guests and visitors to the Ealing Fair on the green in front of the Manor🌳.
Come along and visit Pitzhanger Manor and Walpole Park this summer holiday! Grab a coffee and enjoy some time out and about in this lovely weather 🌞.
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Wednesday – Sunday
📍 Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
🎫 Access to Manor with General Admission
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #WalpolePark #PitzhangerManor #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #LondonSummer
Experience Grayson Perry like never before!
Enjoy a private, uninterrupted evening viewing of our Grayson Perry exhibition outside of our public opening hours. Wander through the stunning works of Grayson Perry and discover Sir John Soane’s architectural masterpiece without the crowds on a guided tour. Cap off your evening with a drinks reception in our serene gardens. Elevate your visit with canapés, dinners, champagne, a director’s tour, and live music! 🍾🎶
Don’t miss out – book your exclusive evening now while Grayson Perry is still on! Find out more at https://www.pitzhanger.org.uk/hire/grayson-perry-after-hours/
Grayson Perry After Hours
📅 11 July – 8 December
🕙 5pm onwards
📍 Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
🎫 £50 + VAT pp
@pitzhangerevents
@alanmeasles
@victoriamirogallery
@britishcouncil
@artscouncilcollection
@artfund
@sfumatoartstudio
@channel4
@alixpartnersllp
#PitzhangerManor #GraysonPerry #PrivateViewing #ArtExhibition #EveningEvent #ExclusiveExperience
Categories Pitzhanger Manor Sir John Soane
Tags Architecture
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History
Learn about the history of this remarkable house
Pitzhanger Manor in Ealing was the country house of Sir John Soane, one of Britain’s most extraordinary architects
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