Building "jewelry" has always greatly appealed to me. The
metals used to accessorize architectural deign and craft may add greatly to the
complexity of the exterior and the interior of a structure in numerous
aesthetic and functional ways. Elegant wrought iron railings and window
grills, glowing brass plaques, polished steel plates and casings add shine and
contrast to other building materials, such as plaster, wood and stone.
The jewelry aspect of these metal complements creates a wealth of visual eye
candy in every type of space. Industrial buildings as well as luxurious
period mansions usually all have some glint of
gold or
silver.
Recently I was riding in a beautifully wood paneled elevator in a NYC
department store. I became fascinated by the stunningly crafted brass control
panel. Each aspect of the plate is meticulously and beautifully designed
for visual appeal and functionality. Architectural jewelry at its best.
Sepia photograph architecture detail: New York City
For
more about use of metals in architecture see:
http://www.elevatorpreservation.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/historyofelevatorindustry1850-2001-wq.pdf
I agree Ellen, the small details in architecture are fascinating. I also like being able to click on the thumbnail and seeing it open at a much larger size; it really helps me to see the details.
ReplyDeleteThe details, more often than not, intrigue me! Thanks, Nick!
DeleteEye candy, indeed. And there you were going up and down the elevator. I know you got it in one shot, and the other shoppers never paid any attention to it. Looking at the world with different eyes. Beautiful.
ReplyDeleteYou also follow the world with a beautiful eye! Thank you!
ReplyDelete