Drawings [1] to [19] were made by Soane during the course of a visit to Aynhoe Park between 2nd and 4th of November 1799. They record his initial ideas for alterations and additions to the old house.

Drawings [1] to [14] were, at some stage, folded in half and stitched together to make 14 leaves. When 'unstitiched' drawing [1] is composed of the first and last drawing in the group of 14. Since the stitched drawings were each given a number relating to plan chest, drawer and folder (for example 6/4/29) the drawings have been catalogued in that order. There are two blank leaves between drawings [11] and [12.]. Drawings 15 to 19 are single sheets.

Soane's sketch designs focus mostly on the ground floor of the south-west part of the house. This includes the library, anti room, eating room and the offices behind. Drawing [14] has details for the exterior but the main concern at this stage seems to be the plan and the addition and re-ordering of rooms. No survey drawings have survived (in Soane's collection) though they must have been made.

Group

Digitisation of the Drawings Collection has been made possible through the generosity of the Leon Levy Foundation

If you have any further information about this object, please contact us: drawings@soane.org.uk