St Paul's Cathedral familiar with the unique octagonal lantern tower over the crossing of Ely Cathedral, which spans the aisles as well as the central nave, unlike the central towers and domes of most churches. Wren adapted this characteristic in designing the dome of St Paul's. In section St Paul's also maintains a medieval form, having the aisles much lower than the nave, and a defined clerestory. The most notable exterior feature is the dome, which rises to the cross at its summit, and dominates views of the City. The height of 365 feet is explained by Wren's interest in astronomy. Until the
Tower House, Brighton of a wide access road which breaks the long run of original boundary walls fronting London Road. Tower House, "Brighton's finest example of a grand Edwardian house", is an "imposing and richly detailed" building which—despite being set back from the main London Road—forms a local landmark due to its tall corner tower with a large lead cupola. This has ogee curves and sits on top of an octagonal timber roof lantern. The house is constructed of red brick in the Edwardian/Queen Anne Revival style. It rises to 3–4 storeys and has a six-window range. The four-storey tower at the south