Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Warehouse Wednesday: 1835 Northlight building

Northlight building

The Isle of Man ishome to some very early examples of innovative design. We have one of the earliest electric tramways for example and here, an early "Northlight" roof building. 

According to Wikipedia "British engineer and architect William Fairbairn is sometimes credited with the first designs for what he termed the shed principle possibly as early as 1827". The principle being that a roof shaped with windows facing north would allow lots of free light into the work area. 

Originally a woollen mill, this building dates from 1835. The stone walls are original but unsuprisingly, the roof covering has ben replaced, probably several times. Inside, the timbers don't look to have required the same treatment. 

Sadly, this is now on an indsutrial estate so I can't show you much more easily. Google will let you look around outside though to get a feel for the area. Head on to the bridge and look over for the station. Then try to guess why I was there. 


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