Famous Steel Structures

It’s durable, requires low maintenance, environmentally friendly, affordable and can be made to adapt to many different designs--- these and its many other characteristics are the reasons why steel has been used in some of the world’s most famous landmarks. From steel commercial buildings, to bridges and churches, here are some of the structures that use the popular alloy as its main building material:

The Merc (Dallas, Texas)

The Merc, or the Mercantile National Bank Building, is a building located in downtown Dallas.

The art deco building was at one time the tallest building in the Lone Star state, but what’s truly remarkable about it is the fact that it was the only skyscraper to have been constructed in the United States during the years of the Second World War. Because steel was used in making weapons, planes and equipment needed for the war, the U.S. government ordered a halt in all construction work, save for those sponsored by the states. However, since the steel that was to be used for the building has already been fabricated (reusing it would not have been very cost-effective), the contractors were allowed to continue with construction.

San Sebastian Church (Quiapo, Manila)

Amidst Quiapo, Manila’s dilapidated buildings, old houses and countless of street hawkers lies a hidden architectural jewel: the San Sebastian Church.

The San Sebastian Church (or the Basilica Minore de San Sebastian) is an all-steel church that was built in the late decades of the 19th century. The church features pointed arches, spires and intricately rich and ornate details--- characteristics of the neo-gothic architectural style.

Other than how it is the only all-steel church in Asia (and the second one in the world), another fascinating thing about the San Sebastian Church is the fact that its general structure was designed by the great Gustave Eiffel himself!

Brooklyn Bridge (Brooklyn, New York)

The first steel-wire suspension bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge took 13 years to build and caused around $15.5 million. Upon its completion in 1883, the 1825-meter bridge was twice the length of the longest similar structure ever built.

Today, the bridge has become one of New York’s most recognizable and popular features. It has been featured in countless of television series and movies, including The Gangs of New York, Independence Day and most recently, I am Legend.

Gateway Arch (St. Louis, Missouri)

Towering over the city of St. Louis is the 33-year old Gateway Arch, a gracefully curving stainless steel structure that glistens brightly in the bright Missouri sun. Measuring 630 feet, it is the tallest national monument in the world.

The hollow interior of the arch is equipped with a tram that allows tourists to travel to the viewing deck located on top of the structure.

Gateway Arch was built to memorialize particular historic events significant to the area, including the Louisiana Purchase and the exploration and expansion to the west of American explorers, most notably, Lewis and Clarke.

By: Charlie Angeles

For more information on metal steel buildings, visit this site on steel buildings in Canada.

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