Image shows: It&#;s lovely, but is it art?

Image ID: 962

More to the point, is it practical? This example of form over function from Boston, Massachusets illustrates what can happen when appearance can lead the unwary into a poor choice.

The John Hancock Tower in Boston, was built in 1968 as an example of what could be achieved at the time with stunning materials. Blue reflective glass was chosen for the 10,344 window panes that formed the entire outer surface of the building.

Five years later though, the choice proved to be a poor one. The differential expansion rates of the glass and the building's steel frame caused stress fractures, allowing complete panes of glass to detach from the building and crash to the pavement below.

It got so bad that if the wind reached 45MPH, the police had to close the pavement to the public.

It took months to replace all the window panes at huge expense, not only in terms of money, but in terms of reputation; the sheets of plywood that replaced the windows while work went on, earned it the nickname "The Plywood "Palace".

If you are considering building projects, dreams and ideas, a conversation with CWN Construction can help to make sure that your choices are not only the most beautiful in your home, but also the most practical and durable. Call us for an informal, no-obligation chat, or click in the header of any page to get the ball rolling.