Tyringham Hall, Buckinghamshire
Ian Waller was appointed to advise on the reinstatement of Sir John Soane’s original Tribune at Tyringham Hall – a significant early example of Soane’s architectural thinking. Working closely with the architect and contractor, Ian helped recreate this highly complex, three-dimensional plasterwork arrangement with authenticity and precision.
Project:
Reinstatement of the original Soane Tribune at Grade I listed Tyringham Hall
Role:
Consultant on design, geometry, specification, and heritage-appropriate methods
Key Challenges:
Limited historical detail, 3D geometry, listed building constraints
Outcome:
Successful reinstatement using fibrous plaster, designed and detailed to match Soane’s original intent
Result:
Acclaimed project that led to further commissions on Soane properties and won the FPDC Crab Salver award
The Story
Tyringham Hall is one of the most important surviving works by Sir John Soane – a Grade I listed country house that exemplifies his distinctive approach to proportion, light and spatial geometry. At the heart of the property was his original 'Tribune' – a prototypical design that informed later work across his career. When the current owners sought to restore the Tribune, which had been previously removed and repurposed, Ian Waller was brought in to advise on its reinstatement.
With only one small curved section of the original structure remaining, Ian began by researching Soane’s original drawings through the Soane Museum, and by analysing similar tribune arrangements elsewhere. The available materials were minimal – a sectional drawing, photographic records, and a detailed site survey. From this, Ian reconstructed the complex three-dimensional geometry of the interlocking domes, niches and arches using AutoCAD modelling, working from the existing light well downwards.
The project required a sensitive approach. Although in-situ lime plasterwork would have been ideal, budget and programme constraints meant fibrous plaster was chosen. Ian provided advice on manufacturing methods, setting out, and the
distinctive incised detailing found in Soane’s original work. He worked closely with the architect and contractor to ensure each stage of installation retained fidelity to the historic model.
The resulting Tribune was both authentic and striking — a seamless reintegration of Soane’s original concept, executed with clarity and precision. The project received industry recognition, winning the FPDC Crab Salver award. It also led directly to
further commissions on other Soane properties, reinforcing Ian’s role as a leading advisor in the restoration of decorative plasterwork within historic settings.
Ian Waller led the restoration of Sir John Soane’s Tribune at Tyringham Hall, recreating complex plasterwork from historic references.
The work balanced heritage accuracy with practical modern methods.
Further Projects
