Step Into History: Hogarth Stair and Great Hall Shine After £9.5M Makeover!

St Bartholomew's Hospital in London has reopened its historic North Wing to the public after a major restoration project costing £9. 5 million. The building, which is Grade I-listed, features the famous Hogarth Stair, designed by architect James Gibbs in the 1730s. This grand staircase is made of dark polished wood and is decorated with two large murals painted by William Hogarth, showing classical scenes with people in flowing robes. The ceiling above is ornate, with a chandelier that lights up the space, adding to the impressive atmosphere. Starting this week, the public can visit the Great Hall and Hogarth Stair two days a week, giving more people the chance to see these masterpieces up close.

Professor Charles Knight, the chief executive of the hospital, said the restoration is a lasting legacy of the hospital's recent 900th anniversary, which was celebrated in 2023. He explained that the renewal connects centuries of medical excellence with the hospital's rich heritage. The North Wing was originally built in 1732 to help run the hospital and raise funds, but over the years, it fell into decline as the hospital focused more on clinical areas for patients. Before the restoration, public access was limited to occasional heritage tours and some staff members. Now, the building has been transformed into a visitor attraction, a cultural venue, and a space for commercial events.

Will Palin, the chief executive of the restoration project, said that leading craftspeople from across the country worked together to bring the building and its spectacular interiors back to life. He believes the hall has regained its beauty and dignity and will inspire visitors, host events, and support the health and recovery of patients and staff. The restoration also included conserving other important features, such as an ornate banquet room, a historic baroque gatehouse, a statue of King Henry VIII, and Portland stonework. The intricate gilded ceiling of the Great Hall was designed by Jean Baptiste St Michell, and it is his only work in England. William Hogarth offered to paint the Great Hall and staircase for free to prove that English artists could excel in grand historical painting, competing with Italian artists like Jacopo Amigoni. Now, the public can enjoy these remarkable works of art and the building's stunning architecture.