English: A particularly noble and dignified facade, as befitting the academic style of its architect, Sir William Chambers, then "Comptroller of the Office of Works". Somerset House was the civil service's first office block. Built 1776-80. Ground floor of windows set into a rusticated arcade, the three central arches providing access to the courtyard and buildings behind. Then a straight sequence of windows between attached Corinthian columns. The central three bays are crowned by an attic with carved figures, oval windows and swags. All very Roman. Grade I listed. It is now largely an arts and cultural centre. In winter, the courtyard, formerly the taxmen's car park, is turned into a popular ice rink.