The name "Polygon" might seem like an unusual choice for a neighbourhood, but it carries with it a fascinating tale of ambition, architectural aspirations, and historical transformation.

It all stemmed from an ambitious 18th-century development plan to create a grand, 12-sided polygon-shaped complex of houses, hotels, assembly rooms, and a tavern.

This was inspired by the successful Royal Crescent in Bath and aimed to elevate Southampton's status as a fashionable destination. The project was the brainchild of architect Jacob Leroux and was initiated around 1768.

Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, only a small part of the original plan was completed. Despite this, the area retained the name "Polygon".

As the initial grand plans faltered, the area gradually transformed into a more modest residential neighbourhood.

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The Victorian era saw the construction of numerous houses, typical of the time, giving the Polygon its characteristic architectural style.

These homes attracted affluent families seeking a more rural lifestyle within the town.

Despite its residential character, the Polygon also developed a commercial side. Shops, cafes, and other businesses began to appear, contributing to the area's vibrancy.

The Polygon Hotel, though different from the originally envisioned building, became a prominent landmark and hosted notable guests throughout the 20th century.

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It was more than just a place to stay; it was a vibrant epicentre of Southampton society.

Its iconic revolving door, presided over by the legendary head porter, Bill Conroy, welcomed a glittering array of guests.

From the world-renowned boxing champion Muhammad Ali to the comedic genius of Tommy Cooper and Morecambe and Wise, the hotel's guest book read like a who's who of the era.

But the allure of the Polygon extended beyond celebrity status, it was a favoured choice for the wealthy and influential, many of whom would spend their final night on British soil within its opulent walls before embarking on transatlantic voyages.

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To cater to the demands of such clientele, the hotel even boasted a dedicated bar for chauffeurs, ensuring their comfort while their employers indulged in the hotel's refined dining.

The hotel's social calendar was as impressive as its guest list.

Countless dinners, dances, and prestigious events graced the ballroom, a space that underwent a dramatic transformation in 1963.

A substantial investment of more than £100,000 expanded the ballroom to accommodate up to 400 guests, propelling the Polygon to new heights of social prominence.

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A Daily Echo report at the time stated: “Its appearance on the Southampton social scene has been followed by a wave of bookings and throughout the period from October to April it is greatly in demand.

“About one-third of the ballroom - the section which guests first enter - is used as a reception foyer. When dinner is served the dividing curtains are drawn, the lights rise in the ballroom and are lowered in the foyer.

“By these means it is hoped to induce people psychologically from one area into the other.”

For more than three decades, the rhythmic pulse of the ballroom was set by the Brian Gorman band. Their music provided the soundtrack to countless unforgettable nights.

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On February 7, 1959, a large-scale celebration took place as a ribbon was ceremoniously cut while applause erupted. It was a big occasion - the official opening of their new lift!

The Daily Echo were there to record the event and informed readers the lift, the highest in Southampton at the time, could carry 12 people and rose to 85 feet.

Tragedy struck in 1970 when a fire ripped through the old wing of the hotel. Thankfully, there were no casualties, but the incident served as a stark reminder of the building's age and the challenges of maintaining such a grand establishment.

An investigation revealed a carelessly discarded cigarette as the culprit.

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Despite its rich history and enduring charm, the Polygon Hotel faced the challenges of a changing hospitality landscape.

As guests sought modern amenities like swimming pools and spas, the hotel's traditional allure began to fade.

Ultimately, the doors closed for the final time on January 1, 1999.

In its place, a block of flats emerged, drawing inspiration from the original 18th-century plans.

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Beyond its role as a luxurious hotel, the Polygon also played a crucial part in two world wars. During the First World War, it served as the headquarters for the British Expeditionary Force, and in the Second World War, it housed the 14th Major Port US Army in the lead-up to the D-Day invasion.

From a grand geometric vision to a thriving community, the Polygon's story is a testament to the ebb and flow of time and human endeavour.

While the original dream of a perfect architectural form may have faded, the area's spirit and character endure.