September 7th, 2020 
Beginning in the 18th century, the Industrial Revolution made fundamental changes in agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, and housing. Architecture changed in response to the new industrial landscape as well. Prior to the late 19th century, the weight of a multistory building had to be supported principally by the strength of its walls. Thus, the taller the building, the more strain this placed on the lower sections. Since there were clear engineering limits to the weight such loadbearing walls could sustain, large designs meant massively thick walls on the ground floors, and definite limits on the building’s height.
Which do you feel best encapsulates the Industrial Revolution? Consider the influence of the advancements of the era and how they helped industry to progress. Provide a two-paragraph description of your selection, provide the name and background of the architect (or firm), and describe how your example best represents this shift in materials and building technology.
Please write about the reading room of the Bibliothque Nationale (18601867) (Designed by Henri Labrouste)
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