Joseph Paxton's Crystal Palace (1851), a new kind of construction

 

the architect, Joseph Paxton was a famous gardener at the time and had experimented with glasshouse construction. by using combinations of prefabricated cast iron, laminated wood, and standard-sized glass sheets, Paxton created the “ridge-and-furrow” roof design. 

nobody had seen anything like it. 

it became a sort of museum of sorts.

here's the plan of both floors:

WHAT WAS THE IMPACT OF THE CRYSTAL PALACE?

1. CP was a groundbreaking example of modern architecture, using prefabricated iron and glass. Its vast, modular structure influenced later buildings like train stations, shopping malls, and exhibition halls. Demonstrated the potential of industrial materials for grand, elegant spaces. 

2. Showcased Industrial progress: The Great Exhibition celebrated British and global industrial achievements, displaying cutting-edge inventions, machinery, and manufactured goods. Promoted the Industrial Revolution's triumphs, reinforcing Britain's dominance in engineering and trade. 

3. Economic and Commercial Influence: The CP encouraged international trade by introducing new products and materials. Inspired advancements in mass production and consumer goods, helping shape the modern economy. Generated huge revenue, demonstrating the power of world expos to boost national prestige and tourism. 

4. Cultural and Global Exchange:  Over six million visitors attended, including Charles Darwin, Karl Marx, and Queen Victoria. Exposed people to art, textiles, and technologies from around the world, fostering cross-cultural appreciation. Influenced Victorian aesthetics by popularizing exotic designs and materials. 

5. Urban and Social Impact:  The CP highlighted the potential of public exhibitions and museums, leading to the creation of institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum. Set a precedent for future World’s Fairs (e.g., Paris’s Eiffel Tower in 1889).