American infrastructure in the early 20th century definitely took a form of its own. The United States obviously learned the engineering techniques and architectural characteristics from England and France, though Americans created their own splendid gems making it their own and owning their interpretation of culture and becoming an obsolete country with their own advancements such as Grand Central Terminal which was open for the public in 1913.

Grand Central Terminal demonstrates the empowerment and the ambition that NYC had at the time. Besides Grand Central Terminal’s lofty arches and the marble used to enrich its beauty it was the practical design and innovative engineering that amused the public and designers at this moment in time.  One can definitely observe the Terminal’s topography from the exterior realizing how smoothly and properly the Terminal’s interior is also playing with the site topography. It’s a play with the ground level.  As you keep walking  to the main room there are magical spaces that leave you in awe almost looking to the heavens due to the grandeur of the structure. Grand Central Terminal is made to be royal and subliminally give the message of a goal met since it was considered and still considered one of the greatest structures in the world and certainly in NYC.

In comparison you have Penn Station which by it names allow you to know it serves as a station meaning trains meet and keep going through to follow their path. We also have to realize that although Penn station is such an important hub it was created for its functionality of circulation. The functionality of serving people to move from one train to another whether its Amtrak, Subway, or Path. It’s also a genius marvel with its engineering. It just comes short to Grand Central with the feeling it provides the public and with the lack of decor and aesthetic beauty.