Used as early as the beginning of the 19th century, glass bricks were used in the bowels of ships and cellars to provide a way for natural light to penetrate the dark depths. They are also known as glass blocks and provide obscured vision while allowing ample amounts of light inside. They were originally created to allow natural light within industrial factories. In 1903, the first Lubber machine opened the doors for using glass bricks on a larger scale within architectural design. Learn more about retaining wall blocks and glass bricks within our vast selection of vintage reprints.

Metal coverings were first used on the temple in Jerusalem in 970 BC. Famous buildings in architecture used metal roofing options, including the Pantheon in Rome and the Notre Dame Cathedral. During the American Revolution, the craft of metal roofing came to the Western Hemisphere. In the beginning of the 20th century, steel was introduced into construction. Today there is a wide variety of flat roof materials used, including steel roofing. Discover more about roofing products when you browse our new catalog.

As the name suggests, portable cabins are structures designed to be movable, rather than in a location permanently. Also called modular buildings or 'knock-down' buildings, portable cabins have been used for hundreds of years. They are often used on building sites or as a temporary office site. Some are complex and join several units or floors, and are often disguised as regular buildings with a traditional roof overhead and brick style cladding. Learn the rich history behind portable cabins while enjoying the unique art we offer.