It is meant to evoke the open-roofed atrium, or central courtyard, of a classical villa – a Roman architectural precedent rather than a Greek one. The Northumberland climate meant that it had to be roofed, with natural lighting being provided by roof lights and a clerestory, or upper level of windows. The Pillar Hall functioned both as a reception and a circulation space, giving access to the different parts of the house.. On the ground floor are closely spaced lonic columns with Doric columns on the floor above – a reversal of the usual arrangement in classical buildings.*

The stairs and the gallery have brass balustrades which were designed by  Sir Charles’ sister Isabella.  The artificial lighting on the upper level  was provided by brass lamp stands, which screwed into the top of the balustrade between the Doric columns.

*From the English Heritage guidebook.