|
Gothic Architecture - More than a Movie Set |  |
October 25, 2005
by Sarah Christensen
sarah.christensen@design-programs.com
Design Columnist
Built to Impress
Gothic architecture is so popular it has even enjoyed several revivals. It
first appeared in Europe in the high and late medieval architecture periods
dating from the twelfth century onward. Originally, the style was used for ornate
cathedrals and universities. It was effective in displaying the considerable wealth, power, and
influence of both Catholicism and certain academic institutions such as Oxford
and Cambridge universities.
Medieval architecture had been fairly low in stature and
the interiors were dark until this point in time. The size of buildings was
constrained by mediocre building methods, which couldn't support anything very big or tall.
A Labor of Love
Newly discovered building methods allowed more light into previously gloomy
living spaces lit only by tallow candles. As well as studying these fantastic
old buildings to help you understand the history of your subject, you could also
get the chance to marvel at the quality of work that went into these
structures - something made even more special when you consider that some of
these buildings are one-thousand years old, when power saws were far from being used (to say nothing of electricity).
Reach for the Skies
As with any form of design, once you understand the purpose of these
buildings and what the architect was trying to achieve, you can see why
particular building methods and styles were used. In order to honor God,
cathedrals needed to be large, high, and imposing, with plenty of light to
illuminate the massive stained glass windows. These are buildings out to
impress!
Powerful universities of the same era took heed of gothic architecture's propensity for extravagence. The gothic
architecture style spread across Europe, starting in Italy with the Duomo in
Florence and similar examples in Pisa (of "leaning Tower of Pisa fame") and
Milan. This style of medieval architecture then spread to France and the
cathedrals of Notre Dame and Chartres. Germany and Britain were quick to follow
with Cologne and Westminster Abbey to name only two.
Look for these Gothic Architecture Features:
- Strong Vertical Lines
- High, Vaulted Ceilings
- Minimal Wall Space
- Pointed Apertures
- Buttressed Walls
About the Author
Sarah Christensen is a design columnist who is a regular contributor to this site. A long term fan of Gothic architecture, she is keen to help preserve these masterpieces of structural engineering.
| |
|
