Architectural Innovations of the Industrial Revolution

19th-Century Architecture of the Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution began in England before expanding across Europe and the rest of the world. This period refers to a series of profound technical and technological revolutions that fundamentally amended building techniques. New materials such as cast iron, glass, and later, concrete were introduced, leading to an increase in the number and size of buildings.

The most significant invention was the steam engine. The second major development was the introduction of mechanization, and the third was the utilization of processed coal. Engineers were responsible for proposing new construction methods, providing responsive solutions to society's problems. Cities needed to reform their infrastructure and housing. The new buildings were characterized by the use of cast iron and later steel, which would eventually give way to the curtain wall. Finally, we should note the emergence of reinforced concrete, which combines concrete with a steel structure for enhanced strength and stability.

New Architectural Classifications

Bridges

• Menai Strait Bridge: It is noteworthy that the top deck is suspended by chains anchored to large pilasters.
• Brooklyn Bridge in New York: This bridge connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Its prominent vertical towers are a key feature.
• Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto: The top deck is supported by two large pillars and a massive central arch. It features two levels for traffic.

Greenhouses and Exhibition Halls

These structures were often made of prefabricated parts. The most significant example from the 19th century was the Crystal Palace, notable for its immense volume and lack of traditional decorative elements.

• The Great Exhibition: The 1851 exhibition in London popularized showcases of technological innovation.
• Paris Exposition: Later exhibitions in Paris featured three iconic structures: The Eiffel Tower, the Palais des Expositions, and the Galerie des Machines.

Railway Stations

There were two main models for stations:

• The through-station, located parallel to the tracks for trains to pass through.
• The terminal station, located at the end of a line.

Prominent examples include St. Pancras Station and King's Cross Station in London.

Markets

Markets were built to accommodate large crowds of people. They were characterized by their great height, which allowed for ample natural light and ventilation. The primary materials used were iron and glass. Notable examples include markets in Berlin and Paris.

Societal Impact and Urban Growth

The Industrial Revolution sparked, among other things, a population explosion and an exodus from the countryside to the city, largely due to a decrease in the mortality rate. This population growth, combined with new infrastructure like railways, allowed people to live in more remote areas, leading to the development of the first suburbs.