In the middle of the 12th century, a leap in the development of crafts and technology took place in Europe. At the same time, cities were expanding, centralized states were being formed, and secular forces were emerging. The combination of these factors influenced the urban planning of that time. Temples, cathedrals, monasteries stretched up to heaven and God, public and residential stone buildings are being built all over Europe.
Features of the Gothic style
Designs, lines, and shapes
Growth upward has become possible thanks to new engineering solutions. In buildings, verticals penetrate all structures and interior items. The cross vault, the system of columns, and flying buttresses gave the cathedrals the appearance of huge openwork structures. The roof no longer rests on the walls, the internal area of the premises increases. At the places of fastening of structural elements, pointed turrets, sculptures, decorative elements are mounted, which facilitate the appearance of those massive buildings. The cross vaults were echoed by pointed arches, which tend higher and higher over time. All these details made it possible to overcome the bulkiness of the large stone buildings.
Such details seem impossible to repeat in a simple apartment or home, but this is not entirely so. Sculptures, decorative elements on walls and ceilings, painted wooden open structures that look like they support the ceiling are very much achievable in any living space.
Walls and windows
The walls take on the role of a simple shell, larger windows are cut through, stained glass is replacing paint. Glasses in a lead frame are inserted into the window openings, often in black, without polishing. Modern technologies of those times made it possible to install a stained-glass window not only on a window case but also on a blank wall, using backlighting.
Nowadays, one can use textures of plaster, leather, stone, wood cladding, and even forged metal for their gothic home wall decoration. The home decorator can even use curtains, mainly in living quarters. In common areas, draperies can take over the decorative function.
Floors
The desire for decorativeness was reflected in the laying of the floor. Complex layouts were used in stone or wood floors, mosaics were fit in. The rhythms of stones in contrasting colors created labyrinths and magnificent illusionary vistas.
In a modern home, there’s no need to use marble or other stone materials. One can get the look with the help of stylized tiles or wooden parquet, to emphasize the chic of this style.
Ceilings
The peculiarity of ceilings in such interiors lies in ribbed vaults – interweavings of columns and arches – ribs, often multi-layered, curvilinear-ornate. Such a frame was made to facilitate the construction and became one of the most important decorative elements.
Also common was a beam system with hemmed ceilings or open decorated rafters, which were painted in accordance with the Gothic flavor and purpose of the room.
In a modern home, one can add this design element only for the sake of having one more gothic detail, because this kind of structure is no longer necessary to support the building’s ceiling.
Colors
New technologies have significantly expanded the color palette. In addition to easy-to-produce reds and greens, achromatic whites, grays and blacks, pink and purple, cyan and blue, emerald, yellow, and orange were used. Colors are used in stained glass windows, upholstery, carpets, and even sculpture.
Furniture, doors, and decor
The Gothic interior design showcases many sculptures. Portals, doors, furniture are decorated with carved elements, ornaments, images of people, and figures of fantastic animals. All surfaces of the room – walls, floor, and ceiling – are decorated and elegant.
Lighting
Huge chandeliers that can be lowered on chains, candlesticks, and torches can be installed near the windows and doors. These elements can be made of wood, forged metal, with stained glass inserts.
Gothic style in the design of rooms
Kitchen, dining room
The focus of such sets of furniture is on the dining area. In addition, you can achieve the desired atmosphere with the help of not only dining furniture pieces, but also with light, textiles, or artsy high-backed accent chairs.
Living room
You can’t do without a fireplace in a gothic living room. Historically, the hearth is the heart of the home. It is permissible to choose more restraint upholstered furniture, but cabinet furniture should be strictly in accordance with the style. In the living room, it is appropriate to display and highlight the ceremonial service, knightly subjects, and books. The gothic style loves pathos.
Bedroom and nursery
Relaxation from the solemnity of common areas awaits in private rooms. Wood wall decoration, four-poster beds, soft, comfortable armchairs with a high back, an abundance of pillows, and a lot of freedom in the decor add comfort.
Bathroom
For the bathroom, you can choose several materials for finishing at once. Plaster can be combined with bright tiles, in places where water would not get in. Moreover, built-in sanitary ware, frescoes, and illuminated niches will make the interior more interesting.
Additionally, even though the gothic style loves high ceilings and huge windows, and few of the urban homes can boast of such characteristics, there are not few people who look for outlet furniture in the Gothic style.
Remember that even simple apartments and houses can benefit from a gorgeous effect thanks to this type of decor. And if you dream of just such an atmosphere, visit homey design store now and shop for the best items at a pleasant price!
