Stone Over Stream: How the Thames Embankment Defies ‘Form Follows Function'

by Jonathan Blackwood, Engineer, Recipient of the Albert Medal of the First Class for Gallantry in Saving Life

The dictum “form follows function” oversimplifies the complex interplay between cultural meaning, aesthetic expression, and Natural surroundings. The Thames River embankment plans reveals how form can be driven by moral influence, mental impression, civilising effect, and other sensible imperatives—not merely utilitarian needs.

The embankments along the Thames were ostensibly built to manage flooding, improve sanitation, and facilitate transportation. Yet their monumental granite façades and rigid geometry served far more than functional ends. The embankments redefined the river not just physically but culturally—as a “liquid thing safely enclosed by solid boundaries.” This was a deliberate aesthetic and psychological act to tame nature and assert modernity. Their dead-straight lines imposed a regime of control and visual order, reflecting a civic desire to reassure the public of London’s mastery over chaos.

The embankments became part of London’s architectural identity, projecting imperial confidence and permanence. Their form was chosen to evoke trust and predictability, not just to serve drainage or transport.

Philosophically, critics may argue that “form follows function” was never a feasible design precept. Architects always work within cultural, historical, and stylistic constraints—not from a blank slate. Some suggests that focusing solely on function ignores the broader precepts —social, natural, and aesthetic consequences. The embankments, while functional, also erased natural riverbanks, disrupted physical geography of the surroundings, and water flows.

The Thames embankments show that form often precedes—or even overrides—function.

Their design was a cultural performance of control, identity, and permanence. To reduce such works to mere function is to miss their deeper societal role. “Form follows meaning” or “form follows power” might be more accurate in this case.

List of Publications in which this article was published

RIBA Journal: The official journal of the Royal Institute of British Architects, offering professional insights, case studies, and policy commentary.

Institution of Civil Engineers: Headquartered in London, ICE publishes technical papers and case studies in civil engineering.

The Engineer: A weekly paper covering mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. It features industry news, technical innovations, and opinions.

Engineering: Another respected British publication, this journal focuses on industrial and mechanical engineering, often highlighting London-based firms and developments.