Lombard Street in San Francisco, Essay Example

Lombard Street in San Francisco is an example of how science and art can be combined in one masterpiece of efficiency and beauty. Part of this street is designed in form of 8 zigzags. The road parts are narrowed by green planting of the turns. The main purpose of such construction was dictated by efficiency and security. Though the creation of sharp turns, also known as switchbacks, the steepness of 27 grade hill was decreased. Thus, vehicles could climb it easier and avoid threats for pedestrians. The street gained its current shape in 1922, when one of the proprietors suggested such approach to its reconstruction.

What started as a scientific resolution of necessity and efficiency problem now became a touristic and esthetic attraction. The importance of this place is in its beauty and architectural value. It tells the story of the city building and how innovations were implemented in it. By visiting this place, people are able to enjoy the atmosphere of 1920s, when the meaningful beauty of forms was expressed through the harmony of nature and human presence in it. The street looks like a garden in the middle of the city; even presence of circling cars does not interrupt the harmony of the view.

The main options for visitor of this sight vary from sightseeing tours inside a minibus, to driving one’s own car and experiencing the whole steepness of the hill and feeling of mountain climbing among myriads of blooming flowers and green.  One can also view the sight from a distance, from Coit Tower, or just have a nice climb on the stairs and see the aesthetics of the sight in the close distance. People should visit this sight, in order to understand that modern art of city architecture has its unique charm to offer.