The Soane Collection

The first modern English architect, Sir John Soane was one of the most influential and original of all English architects. Working in London in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, he produced designs for both private residences and institutions, most notably The Bank of England and elements of the Prime Minister’s residence in Downing Street. Soane’s work was characterised by the simplification and stylisation of classical form and detail. He produced designs of quite extraordinary modernity which even today serve as an inspiration to contemporary architects.