Gothic style

initial design period was c.1150 to 1550, but saw a revival in the 19th century by the Victorians.
Gothic design was the first true ecclesiastical style and was symbolic of the triumph pf the Catholic church over paganism in Europe. The new age of soaring cathedrals meant the initiation of new methods of building, to support this extreme weight.

Istory of Gothic Design

of Europe, it can also be seen in universities, castles, civic buildings, and private residences. The dramatic designs of buildings such as the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, have distinctive elements that still endure today. These include the pointed arch used on windows and doorways, tracery, clustered columns, ribbed vaulting, and flying buttresses.

in slender masonry walls able to support expansive, decorative glass windows along with intricate stone tracery. These new cathedral designs created bright and open structures with ever soaring spires on the outside. Colorful stained glass windows were prominent in the churches along with remarkable sculptures of gargoyles and religious icons.

churches and you will be on the right track. Pointed arches and stained glass in complex trefoil or rose designs were predominant, exposed, wooden beams, large, imposing fireplaces, and emulated candle lighting completed the ecclesiastical style. There was a strong vertical influence, supported by the high arches and peaks of the architecture. Light was also important, as windows grew more and more expansive and light and air flooded into the once gloomy churches of the Romanesque period.

bed frames, cabinets were sturdy and featured arches, spiral-turned legs and rich upholstery in dark colors. Old church furniture such as pews, benches and trestle tables finish the look. Victorian gothic reproduction and Arts and Crafts era furniture can be used as an acceptable alternative, as many of the same motifs crossed over.

black, ochre, forest green and gold added complemented the heavy furniture and rich design. Wallpaper was ornate and heavily patterned in natural flowers and foliage. Also popular was trompe-l’oeil architectural features or stenciled designs. Walls were painted in flat colors, to depict stones, and often covered in wall hangings- especially tapestries. Obviously stained glass was a significant feature, and these were ideally accented with pewter, wrought iron, suits of armour and candles. Decorative ribbing or cornices were common and elaborately carved. Heraldic emblems were seen everywhere.

medieval ecclesiastical style shines strongly through. Architectural influences were mostly from Roman and Medieval design, with elaborate carved wood and open tracery.