Final answer:
The Victoria Terminus Building predominantly uses stone masonry and structural iron. These materials represent a blend of traditional and modern architectural design reflective of its era, and this combination was enabled by the Industrial Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary material used for the Victoria Terminus Building (now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) is a fusion of stone masonry and structural iron. Designed by Frederick William Stevens, the terminus melds traditional Indian architectural traditions with Victorian Gothic revival styles in response to the emergence of modern architecture during the late 19th century. The Victoria Terminus is an exemplary illustration of the architectural innovation of its time, employing the use of industrially produced materials like iron alongside stone, reflecting the building techniques that evolved during the Industrial Revolution.
This utilization of iron in conjunction with masonry work was part of a broader architectural trend, as seen with the early example of the Crystal Palace by Joseph Paxton, showcasing iron and glass construction. Iron not only provided the required structural strength for novel architectural designs but also allowed for larger interior spaces free of columns, a signature feature of new architectural methods.
Throughout the history of architecture, materials have played a pivotal role in defining styles and periods. From the traditional use of tufa and travertine by the Romans to the Victoria Terminus's stone and iron composition, and further to the contemporary use of cement, bamboo, and recycled materials, the evolution of materials has continued to shape architectural expressions and functions.