The Lattice Revolution

The tower's open lattice design was revolutionary for its time and remains ingenious today. Rather than fighting wind, the structure allows it to pass through. During a strong gale, the tower sways only 6-7 centimeters at its summit—remarkably stable for a 330-meter structure.

This transparency served multiple purposes: - Structural efficiency: Reducing wind resistance by 30% compared to a solid structure - Material economy: Using 60% less iron than a solid design would require - Visual lightness: Creating an ethereal quality that softened opposition to its height - Maintenance access: Allowing painters and repair crews to reach every surface

The lattice pattern itself varies with height. At the base, where forces are greatest, the iron members are closely spaced and heavily cross-braced. As the tower rises and forces diminish, the lattice becomes more open, creating a visual rhythm that draws the eye upward.

Contemporary architect Zaha Hadid, visiting in 2010, observed: "The Eiffel Tower invented parametric design before we had computers to calculate it. Every element responds to force flows, creating pattern from purpose. It's algorithmic architecture created by hand and intuition."