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Originally called the New Physical Observatory this cruciform building was added to the Royal Observatory complex by the 8th Astronomer Royal, Sir William H. M. Christie.  Its purpose was as a storehouse or museum for all the moveable instruments, clocks and other apparatus which were not in current use, the Lassell telescope and dome in particular. Built 1891-9, architect William Crisp, it is, of course, now available for corporate events.

The name panels are above the windows on the same level, all the way around this free-standing building. The floor levels in relation to the ground are a bit odd and change as one goes round so we aren't too sure how to describe it, possibly "raised ground floor". We've listed them anti-clockwise starting at the main entrance to the building, on the north face.

The 4 ornate featured entities: the Flamsteed bust, the Royal Society coat of arms, Queen Victoria's royal standard and the Royal Astronomical Society cartouche, are each on the central high pediment of one of the 4 wings of the building.

The terracotta tiles and decorative sculpture are the work of Doulton & Co, of Lambeth. There is some sculptural work signed with  W. J. Neatby's initials but we don't think that applies to anything that we have photographed.

is a great resource concerning the building and these name panels.