ABSTRACT
In one particular aspect, Pugin was expressing advanced ideas in this work, noting that ‘In matters purely mechanical, the Christian architect should gladly avail himself of those improvements and increased facilities that are suggested from time to time’. The Railways, had they been naturally treated, afforded a fine scope for grand massive architecture. The long lines of front and excessive repetition are certainly not in accordance with the ancient spirit of civil architecture, but the detail is most consoling. The London gateway could not shelter a porter; while the Birmingham entrance was so unsuitable for its purpose, that the company have been obliged to erect various sheds right up to the large columns, and tack on a brick house, to make it at all available for its intended purpose. As well as his architectural and interior design projects, Pugin designed for a range of decorative arts products that were often associated with religious commissions.
