{STYLE-WISE} Eugène Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc

Yesterday, French architect and theorist Eugène Emmanuel Viollet-le-Duc {27 January 1814 – 17 September 1879} was celebrated by the Google Doodle for his renowned work in the advancement of his field, and his forethought in celebrating Medieval architecture in the modern day. His work was the antithesis of the popular style of the time period, and continued to be an inspiration long after his death in 1879 to many architects including Frank Lloyd Wright.

Using advanced technology unavailable to the masons and engineers of the time, Viollet-le-Duc implemented Industrial Age techniques to reinforce and celebrate the many marvels of his homeland including Chartres Cathedral and the iconic Notre Dame de Paris.

We always say the {past} influences the {present} in a way that shapes the {future}, and Viollet-Le-Duc seems to have definitely gotten the memo. For those who can take on board this eternal wisdom, be prepared for a far richer experience of the everyday than if you boldly ignore this blatantly evident truth.

And while the physical restorations themselves are a sight to behold, his meticulous hand-renderings are among the most wildly beautiful exhibits of man’s inherent genius and promise.