Historic decoration invites you to Syon House for a day with the eminent art historian John Hardy. His distinguished career in the study of Georgian architecture and furniture has spanned 60 years and includes working for the V&A museum, Osterley House, Ham House and Christie’s.

John will explore the collaboration between the architect Robert Adam and his patrons, the 1st Duke and Duchess of Northumberland in the 1760’s. The Duke was an enthusiastic antiquarian, who was inspired by the archaeological discoveries underway in 18th century Italy. The Duke’s brief to Robert Adam was to transform the out-dated interiors of the existing Tudor house at Syon into a suite of rooms to rival the imperial villas built at the height of the Roman Empire. Their achievement resulted in one of the most spectacular neoclassical interiors of the 18th century, and led to the Adam Style dominating British architecture and interior design over the next two decades. John will bring the energy and creative drive of the 1st Duke and Duchess to life as he explores the house in all its classical splendour. The day includes lunch in the magnificent family dining room.

10 AM - Arrival and Coffee

10.45 AM - Talk and tour of Syon House with John Hardy, Caroline Percy and Oliver Gerrish

1 PM - Lunch in the family dining room beneath the portraits of the 1st Duke and Duchess.

After lunch the tour will continue and will finish with tea in the Green Drawing Room.

5 PM - Departure

Ticket price £195 per person (includes lunch and tea). We are strictly limited to 20 guests.