Gothic style

1. Gothic style

IN INTERIOR DESIGN

2. Istory of Gothic Design

Gothic period design was influenced by Roman and Medieval architecture. Its
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.

3.

Although Gothic architecture has its roots in the grand religious
structures 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.

4.

Architects of the medieval age used innovative building
techniques which resulted 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.

5. Gothic Style

Style had a religious symbolic base- think of old, ornate 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.

6. Gothic Furniture

Furniture was massive and oak, adorned with Gothic motifs. Chairs,
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.

7. Gothic Color

Colors were rich and dark, of the Victorian era. Purple, ruby, 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.

8. Gothic Influences

The church most heavily influenced gothic design, and
this medieval ecclesiastical style shines strongly
through. Architectural influences were mostly from
Roman and Medieval design, with elaborate carved
wood and open tracery.

9. Gothic Interior Design Today

The Victorian Gothic and Gothic Revival styles are still used in
building modern homes and for decorating interior spaces. The
most important elements to include are architectural features like
pointed arches, fireplaces, stained glass, and wooden ceiling beams.
Floors in a Gothic home are typically a hard surface like stone, tile,
or dark stained hardwood. Add some cushy rugs in deep tones for a
cozier feel in your castle-like retreat.