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Gothic Interior Design - Classic, Expansive And Almost Ecclesiastical

Author: Nancy Dewitt
by Nancy Dewitt
Posted: Jun 28, 2014

The beginnings of Gothic interior design is far from simple. It dates back all the way to the Middle Ages when architecture was largely influenced by religious structures such as cathedrals. This design movement has recently been noticed but this does not mean that it has been forgotten over the last eras. The Victorian era, for instance, fully embraced this style. The end of the last century also showed the beauty of the Goth sub-culture.

Gothic architecture was not just seen in religious buildings but were also seen in castles, universities, private residences and civic buildings. Just think of architectural wonders such as the Notre Dame Cathedral in the midst of Paris and you will appreciate the distinctive beauty of this style. Think gothic and you would also instantly think of arched doorways, clustered columns, buttresses and ribbed vaulting.

The architects during the Medieval Era made use of unique building techniques that resulted in expansive windows, decorative walls and the most intricate stone tracery. Religious icons, gargoyles and sculptures were many but in the subsequent centuries, the focus was more on residential architecture.

Gothic Revival was a movement during the 18th and 19th centuries which focused on the ornate designs and carvings. Also known as Carpenter Gothic in the U.S., the gingerbread trim then came with medieval gothic designs.

Modern Gothic

Today, the Victorian Gothic as well as the Gothic Revival styles are still being widely used in the construction of contemporary homes as well as designing interiors.

The crucial elements include fireplaces, pointed arches, wooden ceiling beams, stained glass, hardwood floors, stone or tiles on floors, wood staining, and other complex features. Add a comfortable rug that comes in deep tones and you’re almost complete.

Echo these same, rich hues with enigmatic wall colors such as violet, ochre, black, red, gold or hunter green. The medieval feel can be further enhanced with the use of decorative paint, murals, stone walls, stenciled designs or wood paneling.

Modern gothic can also be exemplified with the use of velvet window treatments, damasks, brocades and tapestries. Furniture should be solid, heavy wood that come with the most elaborate carvings.

Modern repros of oak furniture are now hugely made to depict the Gothic Revival look. Find furniture pieces that have turned legs, intricate carvings, arched designs and the most luxurious upholstery. Throw in some accessories such as candles, statuary, wrought iron pieces, and crosses and you have just achieved the Gothic interior design.

Why the Big Spaces?

If you have embraced the concept of Gothic design, then you have to think big, tall and fabulous. You would want to have a huge space to work with from the onset. Do not even attempt to use Gothic on a space that is too cramped. The effect will not be as successful.

What would actually work are rooms that are open enough to allow all those beautiful colors to harmonize and all the other design elements to collaborate with the theme.

Remember that Gothic design is all about giving a striking or a dramatic look to your interiors. Deep hues give the much needed drama for your Gothic rooms. The golden color is especially brightening especially when it is interspersed between the different colors.

Do not be immediately drawn to black – this is not the only color when using Gothic design as a theme. Black, after all, makes rooms appear more cramped and it can even reveal the tiniest imperfections on walls, floors and the ceiling. You would need a much thicker coat for black paint.

Gothic interior design is thespian in all aspects. To use it in your own home is a bold move but one that you would never regret.

About the Author

Are you someone that appreciates old-styled homes and furniture? Are you fascinated by the grace and timeless beauty of the pieces that have been made many years ago?

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Author: Nancy Dewitt

Nancy Dewitt

Member since: Dec 10, 2013
Published articles: 40

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