Architecture and Global Modernism: Crystal Palace History Essay

Architecture and Global Modernism: Crystal Palace

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Introduction
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Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 1: A Sketch of Crystal Palace's Entrance Section, courtesy of
Britain is among the few countries in the world that played an essential role in the industrial revolution. Architecture and architectural designs were a critical aspect of this revolution. To celebrate Britain's strides towards industrialization and civilization, Prince Albert, then head of the society of arts had an idea through which the world would experience Britain's industrial achievements CITATION BBC14 \l 2057 (BBC, 2014). In 1851, Crystal Palace was opened to host exhibitions on raw materials, fine arts, machinery, and manufacturers. It attracted delegates from countries such as Turkey, France, United States, Egypt and Russia. The Crystal Palace structure opened many possibilities for architects and engineers because of its reliance on glass (and steel), the raw material that was relatively new in this era.
Brief History
The structure was first erected in 1850-51 to host world's first international trade fare initiated by the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) with ideas from the Paris' 1849 Exposition CITATION Sta187 \l 2057 (Harrison, 2012). Henry Cole, a leading member of the RSA was in Paris in 1849 bringing the idea to Prince Albert. Upon approving the idea, the field was open for a building committee to vet architectural designs for a structure to that would host the exhibition. Failing to approve any design out of the 245 entries, the committee implemented an independent plan that failed. Joseph Paxton's glass and iron design was later approved, resulting in the structure.
Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 2: Crystal Palace Picture, Courtesy of
According to Joseph Paxton, the structural design of the Crystal Palace was such that it could be deconstructed and reconstructed. True to his words, the structure was relocated to Sydenham, where it would be used as a 'Winter Park and Garden under Glass' CITATION BBC14 \l 2057 (BBC, 2014). Rebuilding began in August 1852 and upon completion in 1854, it was officially opened by Queen Victoria. It also became the world's first theme park. It offered education, entertainment, and hosted a variety of events, including sports. Some of the sport that the ground hosted include cricket and F.A cup finals between 1895 and 1914. Over the years, the structure withstood financial difficulties and natural calamities. However, on the 30th November in 1936, the structure was destroyed by fire. To date, the structure is considered a reflection of a new era in British history with the structure becoming a symbol of the modern era for Britain.
The Structure – Crystal Palace
Occupying18 acres ground area, the building was 563 meters long and 124 meters wide with the highest point reaching 33 meters above the ground. The design was the construction of fabricated parts consisting of an intricate network of iron rods holding in place walls made of clear glass. In total, the structure had a floor area of 23 acres with more than 8 miles of display tables. Through the centre of the structure were an avenue 66 feet high and 72 feet wide with an entire 19 acres under a roof CITATION Ber13 \l 2057 (Berly...