Soulton Hall, with its rich history and architectural intrigue, continues to reveal its secrets.
Today, near to Easter, we examine a particularly captivating feature hidden in the basement, a testament to Sir Rowland Hill’s fascination with Renaissance code and the interplay of light and space.
Imagine standing in the central hall of the basement, a space designed with meticulous precision. Sir Rowland Hill, a man deeply immersed in the intellectual currents of his time, ingeniously incorporated a light trick that would have transformed this area into a spectacle of geometry and illumination, with the intention to teach.
The Right-Angle Intersection
At the heart of this design was the concept of intersecting light beams. Picture two distinct beams of light, traveling at perfect right angles, meeting precisely at the center of the floor plan.
This intersection, a symbol of harmony and proportion, was a hallmark of Renaissance architecture and thought.
Borrowed Light and the 9-Grid Window
To facilitate this intricate play of light, Sir Rowland Hill inserted internal “borrowed light” windows.
These windows, strategically placed, allowed light to penetrate deeper into the basement, ensuring the desired illumination. Notably, one of these windows retains its original glazing, a unique feature within the house. This window is distinguished by its leded light pattern, arranged in a precise 9-grid configuration, further emphasizing the geometric precision that Hill favoured.
9 grid window in the basement of Soulton Hall – a borrowed light to unlock a light trick
However, achieving perfect symmetry was not without its challenges.
The need to honour the most senior room in the house dictated the placement of the central window. This meant that the intersection of the light beams, while still present, was slightly imperfect.
Yet, this subtle deviation only adds to the charm and complexity of the design: because you are supposed to correct it in your head which is exactly what a neoplatonist would expect you to do.
A Vertical Dimension of Light
The light show did not stop there.
The original configuration of the staircases, now altered, would have added another dimension to this interplay of light. Imagine beams of light traveling up and down, perpendicular to the horizontal beams, creating a dynamic and visually arresting experience. This vertical movement of light would have enhanced the sense of spatial depth and complexity.
Obstacles and Echoes
Unfortunately, the passage of time and subsequent alterations have obscured some of these original features. The door case leading to the north terrace, now blocks the northern entry of light, diminishing the full effect of the intended design. The origian Aedicule door is now also blocked up.
Despite these changes, the essence of Sir Rowland Hill’s vision remains. The light trick, with its echoes of the block intersections found in the hall’s windows, reveals his deep interest in Renaissance codes and the symbolic use of light. It’s a reminder that Soulton Hall is not just a building, but a carefully crafted expression of intellectual and artistic ideals.
beams of light crossing (a stock image, creative commons)
Renaissance Codes and Light
The use of light as a design element was central to Renaissance architecture. It was seen as a symbol of divine presence, knowledge, and clarity. Sir Rowland Hill’s incorporation of this light trick reflects his understanding of these principles and his desire to infuse his home with meaning and beauty.
Exploring these hidden features allows us to glimpse the mind of a Renaissance polymath, a man who saw architecture as a canvas for expressing his intellectual approach to statecraft.
Next time you find yourself at Soulton Hall, take a moment to imagine the dance of light in the basement, a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of a bygone era.
