Roma Agrawal

Built by Roma Agrawal is a captivating exploration of the world of engineering and the incredible structures that shape our civilization. Agrawal, a structural engineer herself, takes readers on a journey through the history of engineering, from ancient wonders like the Great Pyramids to modern-day marvels like the Shard in London. Throughout the book, she delves into the science, art, and societal impact of engineering, presenting key insights and arguments that shed light on the importance of these structures.

Overview

Built introduces readers to the world of engineering, emphasizing the role it plays in shaping our world. Agrawal explains that engineering is not just about creating functional and safe structures but also about capturing human imagination and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. She emphasizes the impact these structures have on our lives, both in terms of practicality and aesthetic appeal.

Key Points / Ideas

Built delves into various key points and ideas related to engineering and its impact on society. Agrawal highlights the following:

1. Engineering as Problem Solving: Agrawal emphasizes that engineering is fundamentally about solving problems. She explores the challenges engineers faced in the construction of iconic structures, such as the Eiffel Tower, and how they overcame them through innovative solutions and meticulous planning.
2. The Intersection of Science and Art: The author stresses the notion that engineering is an art form as much as it is a science. Agrawal highlights the beauty and aesthetic considerations that engineers take into account when designing structures. The book showcases examples like the Sydney Opera House, where the structural design itself serves as a stunning piece of architecture.
3. Structures Connecting Societies: Agrawal explores how engineering allows us to connect and interact with one another. She explains how bridges, roads, and underground tunnels facilitate transportation and communication between different communities. She provides examples such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Japan's bullet train system to illustrate the role of engineering in bridging distances and bringing societies closer together.
4. Innovation and Progress: The book emphasizes the role of engineering in driving innovation and progress. Agrawal discusses how advancements in engineering have paved the way for groundbreaking projects such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. She underscores the importance of continued innovation in engineering to address the challenges of the future.

Throughout the book, Agrawal supports her arguments and insights with a wealth of evidence, examples, and anecdotes. She incorporates personal experiences from her own engineering projects, engaging readers and providing a firsthand perspective. Agrawal also draws from historical records and interviews with prominent engineers, offering a well-rounded view of the subject matter.

Conclusion

Built by Roma Agrawal is a thought-provoking and enlightening exploration of the world of engineering. It highlights the significance of engineering and showcases the remarkable structures that shape our world. Agrawal's engaging writing style, combined with her expertise as a structural engineer, makes the book accessible to both engineers and non-engineers alike.

Built not only provides a comprehensive overview of engineering but also sparks curiosity and appreciation for the structures that surround us. It encourages readers to explore further readings on the topic and to marvel at the invisible yet impactful work of engineering in our everyday lives. Similar books that readers may find intriguing include "The Most Beautiful Mathematical Formulas" by Lionel Salem and "The Soul of a New Machine" by Tracy Kidder.