The architecture was evidently inspired by the great baths of ancient
Rome, which were similar in style, size, and detail. The scale is so
great-this is said to be the largest wooden building in the world-
that it is something of an achievement to have made the structure
anything but barn like. By the richness of the cornices and the careful
spacing of the openings the architect has made it ornamental, and has
given it a sort of noble dignity-though one hesitates to compare it
with the palaces of the central group.
The most interesting architectural bit in connection with the Palace of
Machinery is the entrance vestibule under the three central archways.
Standing at either end of the portico one obtains a remarkable
impression of spaciousness combined with decorative completeness. The
coloring within the high vestibule is particularly pleasing.
Within the building the unconcealed trussing, instead of giving a sense
of barrenness and lack of finish, resolves itself into a sort of
lace-like decorative scheme, the whole effect being peculiarly
ornamental.
The Palace of Machinery was designed by Clarence R. Ward.