David Baldock Photography
The Marbie Hall Norwich
The Marble Hall
This is only major part of the building open to visitors unless you are a member of a group and book a special tour. This amazing chamber uses 15 different types of marble, some of which was originally intended for Westminster Cathedral. Logistical problems meant that the marble could not be used for the Cathedral and was sold on at a discount. George Skipper convinced the directors of Norwich Union that they simply couldn't pass up the opportunity, so they purchased the marble, and Skipper set to work.
Soaring high above the floor, supported by 40 columns, is a glass-domed ceiling, 11 metres in diameter. The temperature in the spacious hall is controlled by an innovative Edwardian system of air conditioning, using a peculiar structure that looks like a water fountain. Hot air rises through the fountain and is diverted by a pendant made of brass. This disperses the air around the building. The base of the fountain is decorated with marble inlay and lion's heads, and 8 pillars of rare Tuscan marble support the top of the fountain.
The Marbie Hall Norwich
The Marble Hall
This is only major part of the building open to visitors unless you are a member of a group and book a special tour. This amazing chamber uses 15 different types of marble, some of which was originally intended for Westminster Cathedral. Logistical problems meant that the marble could not be used for the Cathedral and was sold on at a discount. George Skipper convinced the directors of Norwich Union that they simply couldn't pass up the opportunity, so they purchased the marble, and Skipper set to work.
Soaring high above the floor, supported by 40 columns, is a glass-domed ceiling, 11 metres in diameter. The temperature in the spacious hall is controlled by an innovative Edwardian system of air conditioning, using a peculiar structure that looks like a water fountain. Hot air rises through the fountain and is diverted by a pendant made of brass. This disperses the air around the building. The base of the fountain is decorated with marble inlay and lion's heads, and 8 pillars of rare Tuscan marble support the top of the fountain.