ironandglass

ironandglass is a term used in architectural and design contexts to describe the integration of iron or steel framing with glass enclosures. It denotes a lineage of built forms and design approaches in which a metal skeleton supports large glass surfaces, producing transparent interiors and a light, industrial aesthetic.

Historically, ironandglass emerged in the 19th century with the advent of cast and wrought iron and later steel frames. It enabled larger spans and lighter structures, evident in greenhouse conservatories, railway stations, and exhibition halls. The Crystal Palace (1851) is frequently cited as an influential early example, illustrating how iron and glass could redefine public architecture.

Characteristics include slender framing, expansive glazing, and an emphasis on structural honesty. Modern implementations may use tempered or laminated glass, streamlined profiles, and corrosion-resistant alloys to meet safety and energy standards while preserving the look of iron-and-glass construction.

In contemporary practice, ironandglass informs museum foyers, atria, pavilions, and façade systems, where designers seek durability and translucence. The term also appears in discussions of architectural heritage conservation and restoration, as well as in contemporary art installations that foreground industrial materials.

See also: iron-and-glass architecture; glass and metal architecture; Crystal Palace; Palm House.