The first couple of days in London have been some spectacular ones. Seeing St. Pauls Cathedral through photos certainly did not do it justice. It was really the first time I have experienced the sublime architecture feeling, and with such close attention to detail in every aspect of the design. There was so many things that attracted my attention, it was difficult to keep my head still. But, in the end there were those small instances where my eyes were drawn to these particular details within the large volume of space that seemed so small in comparison to the whole but just as beautiful.
Wooden spiral column hidden behind altar.
I will never forget having to practically sprint up the stairs to get to the top of St. Pauls or how sore I was the next day. But, I will also never forget the views and the small spaces you pass through to get there. It was truly a unique experience getting to walk between the domes and shooting through to these large open spaces with generous views of the city below.
Spiral staircase leading to the top of St. Pauls.
Small window letting some light through on the way back down from the top of St. Pauls.
I enjoy getting to see these small interworking’s and think about why they were put there, what purpose they served, or what was there before it, etc. Because these are the things we often over look but it is still a cog in the machine and should be getting the same recognition and admiration. I say this because it is surprising to think in general that a detail so small would matter to a structure that’s monumentally large.
Looking towards Wrens sneakily fake facade.
Much like St Paul’s, London as a whole is constantly taking us through alternating contractions and expansions of space, with incredible payoffs of detail and ornament at dizzying scales.
Something that comes up all the time in our studio critiques, is not how we necessarily design the grand gestures, but how do we successfully integrate the normative service spaces that get us there. Thinking about the tiny corridors and staircases leading you up to views of the city really sheds light on the necessities of such significant works of architecture.