"I am going to design... a Station after my own fancy; that is, with engineering roofs, etc"
About this Quote
The quote by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, "I am going to design ... a Station after my own fancy; that is, with engineering roofing systems, and so on", reflects the prominent engineer's ingenious spirit and personal approach to style. Brunel, one of the most popular figures in engineering throughout the 19th century, is known for his vibrant and creative projects that typically pressed the borders of modern engineering and architecture. This quote catches his intent to imbue his developments with unique personal flair, departing from conventional design norms of the time.
By stating his intent to develop a station "after my own fancy", Brunel highlights his desire for innovative freedom. It suggests he was encouraged by a personal vision instead of being limited by existing requirements or public expectations. The emphasis on "engineering roofing systems" suggests his concentrate on integrating innovative engineering strategies and materials into the station's design. During Brunel's time, the Industrial Revolution was in full speed, bringing new products like iron and steel and ingenious building techniques to the forefront of architectural and engineering tasks. Brunel's reference to "engineering roofings" implies his intention to take advantage of these improvements to produce something both functional and aesthetically special.
Brunel's method was typical of his wider body of work, which frequently married kind and function in extraordinary methods. His projects, such as the Great Western Railway and the SS Great Britain, are emblematic of this philosophy. The quote, for that reason, underscores his role not just as an engineer focused on functionality but also as an artist with an eager eye for design, forging ahead of what was possible in his era.
In conclusion, Brunel's declaration is a window into his frame of mind and methodology. It highlights his commitment to innovation and quality, highlighting his function in advancing not just the technical but also the visual dimensions of engineering tasks.
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