“Triumphal Arch theme” a design concept now immortalized in Norwood Hall’s facade. Built in 1801-1802, Norwood Hall stands as a testament to architectural vision. It’s more than just a building. It’s a piece of history.
Norwood Hall was commissioned by John Robins. He was an auctioneer and upholsterer. Sir John Soane designed it. Soane used the “Triumphal Arch theme” here. He used it more forcefully at Aynho Park and Pitzhanger Manor.
Time passed. Around 1890, Norwood Hall was altered and extended. The late 19th century saw roughcast applied over the brick. A gabled Welsh slate roof was added. Roughcast brick stacks completed the look.
Observe the double-depth plan of Norwood Hall. The design of its two-story facade is based on the Triumphal Arch theme. The central arch features steps leading to a semi-circular arched doorway. It has a six-panel door with four glazed panels. A late 19th-century transomed window sits above. It is set in a segmental-arched, molded stone architrave on the first floor.
Note the semi-circular arched niches flanking the arch. Blind oculi rise to chimney stacks. Four late 19th-century and one 20th-century windows were inserted into the facade. The attic story is a late 19th-century addition. It boasts an open balustrade to the parapet. The stacks to the rear mirror the front arrangement. They flank a late 19th-century balustrade. A 20th-century attic window breaks the symmetry.
Examine the left side wall. It has a three-story, three-window range. Late 19th-century leaded windows are set in early 19th-century molded stone architraves. A late 19th-century extension stands to the right. It features irregular fenestration of stone mullioned and transomed windows. A three-story porch with half-glazed double doors is at the rear.
Inside Norwood Hall, discover cross vaults by Soane. These survive in the vestibule and staircase hall. A ball cornice by Soane graces a room to the rear left. The cellar has a stone-flag floor. Early 19th-century shutters remain. Three early 19th-century six-panel doors add to the historic charm.
The first floor showcases early 19th-century reeded six-panel doors. Reeded paneled shutters adorn the windows. A room to the right features an early 19th-century fireplace. It has a reeded architrave. The room to the left boasts early 19th-century molded wood architraves to the windows. Two windows have paneled dados.
Late 19th-century features abound. An Elizabethan-style staircase has turned balusters. A French-style canopied fireplace is in the hall. Ground-floor rooms to the left are paneled. Fluted columns flank the fireplace to the rear. A plaster frieze and fine fireplace are to the left.
Norwood Hall’s history is intertwined with John Robins. He supplied furniture to Soane. This connection highlights the building’s significance.
Norwood Hall stands as a Grade II listed building today. It earned this designation on July 22, 1988. This status recognizes its special architectural and historical interest. It protects it for future generations. As you leave Norwood Hall, remember its blend of architectural styles. Think of the people who shaped its history.