Table of Contents
Gothic Revival Architecture, Important Features.
Gothic Revival in Different Regions
Famous Architects and Buildings
Introduction
Usually the Gothic and the medieval structures are known for their aesthetic nature with a deep focus on the intricate forms, that reach for the sky, and the historical inheritance they have had. In this article, you will discover the very beginning, salient highlights, regional variations, some acknowledged designers as well as their pieces and their long-lasting mark of the Gothic Revival movement.
Origins of Gothic Revival
Influenced by German philosopher Johann Gottfried Herder, the Gothic Revival as a style came into being at the end of the eighteenth century to respond to the rigid and logocentric forms of Neoclassical architecture. It was carved out of this, drawing its inspiration from the Gothic architecture of medieval European cathedrals and churches alike.
The ideas of the Medieval revival as well as the Gothic Revival became popular among the architects and artistic leaders of the period who believed that the style of the Middle Ages was more sacred and beautiful than the classical forms that had dominated architecture for a considerable period.
Gothic Revival Architecture, Important Features
Gothic Revival architecture has some of the iconic features that help it to be distinguished from other types of buildings. Skeptical arches and ceilings were dominant features that added verticality and immense splendor. Above all, decorative tracery and ornamental motifs of quadriform, trefoil, and such are found on the surfaces of windows and facades. The use of stained glass becomes another characteristic of the Gothic Revival style, a window that gives colors and shines on the interior space. The flying buttresses, gargoyles, and spires are habitual features of the Gothic architecture which enhance the distraction and old-fashioned attractiveness of buildings.
Gothic Revival in Different Regions
The Gothic Revival trend expanded the Old Continent and merged with America, substituting architectural design in various areas. European Gothic Revival embraced a historicistic manner rather. The great architects, like Augustus Pugin from the United Kingdom and Eugène Viollet-le-Duc of France, who symbolized the movement, adopted this idea.
In the USA, examples of the Gothic Revival can be grasped in numerous churches, colleges, and administrative constructions throughout the country, with the Smithsonian Institution Building in Washington, D.C., being one of the most prominent.
Famous Architects and Buildings
Along with Gothic Revival architects, one of the most influential is Augustus Pugin, whose domestic works include designing the interior of the Palace of Westminster in London. Probably the best-known example of Gothic Revival architecture is the Palace/Houses of Westminster, with its solemn high tower and enormous Gothic windows.
Another example of Gothic Revival architecture in that it acknowledges the intricate interior details and vibrant stained glass windows, Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal, Canada, is the Montreal Notre-Dame Basilica which is an example of Gothic Revival.
Legacy of Gothic Revival
The Gothic Revival movement led to the emergence of seemingly all Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau designs leaving a deep and permanent strong imprint on architecture and design. There is a good number of Gothic revival buildings that have been refurbished and resuscitated hence they act like historic sites in preserving memories of the earlier times.
While it is a century old, this revival of Gothic architecture has inspired many architects and designers today, and the beauty and historical significance of these structures will likely endure for many generations to come.
Last Words
In the concluding paragraph, we can give a detailed review of Gothic Revival architectural and design styles. We will say that these styles are a great manifestation of the highly recommended abilities of the architects and designers who realized them. As for now, centuries later, the uniqueness of their buildings is unavailable, and stands firm as a symbol, reminding us of a time when architecture was not only an art but first and foremost a noble profession.
