cast iron buildings

Isaac Kremer/ November 23, 2025/ / 0 comments

An important innovation during this period was the advent of cast iron in commercial storefront design. Cast iron provided greater structural strength, allowing for wider first story openings, while easily supporting the weight of the masonry above. Larger shop windows could be created, letting more light into the building and providing additional display space. Iron could be cast in a variety of designs. Use of the material became so prevalent that ultimately entire cast iron facades were constructed. (St. Louis, 1995)