Gothic

 From 1140-1500 was considered the Gothic time period, where many historically significant buildings were constructed as well as events. Gothic style architecture had several distinct factors from previous styles, letting it stand apart from other styles. Pointed arches, which developed from Romanesque arches, were a highlighted feature in cathedrals. Additionally, groin vaults evolved into a more complex styles known as the rib vault. The rib vault offered more height and a more dramatic look and feeling to the space. 

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To add extra emphasis to the interior of these cathedrals, stained glass windows were used to create an ethereal experience. Sometimes these windows depicted a religious figure or scene but, others were just patterns. Stained glass was often used is rose windows which were a prominent attribute of Gothic churches. Not only did Gothic churches have a set of architectural features they also had a similar floor plan. the Latin Cross floor plan was seen as the general layout for Gothic churches. Catholic churches still default to this style of floor plan as it is very effective and well laid out. The Nave is the area where services take place and allows the priests to be seated with the choir behind them. Seeing Gothic churches on the study tour, the interiors were very dark and moody, the pointed arches and rib vault added an awe worthy experience. These churches often feel closed off and compartmentalized but, again adds to the dramatics. 

Two cathedrals that stand out to me as showing the Gothic style in its full beauty, Cathedral of Notre Dame and Barcelona Cathedral. The Cathedral of Notre Dame was constructed in the early Gothic period, and has a stunning interior. The image seen below, shows how pointed arches were not just over windows or doors but, they were reflected in the furniture and altar structures as well. This image shows how dramatic this style is and its creates a heavenly ethereal effect. 

The Barcelona Cathedral was constructed during the late Gothic time period and still reflects the core features of this style. The exterior highlights pointed arches and pointed towers and has plenty of detail and heights. The interior is very interesting to me, a lighter color was chosen for the ceiling to fully show the lines of the rib vault. The darker colors lay at the ground and furniture and helps to ground the space. The lightness of the ceiling creates a glow that references heaven being above us and the contrasting darker colors that reference hell. I feel this design truly shows the contrast between these two destinies for humans. 





Modern Applications


Modern Catholic churches often still use the Latin Cross floor plan. Churches today follow ADA codes and egress codes, which makes them slightly wider than traditional Gothic churches. Choirs normally sit on the left or right of the altar, so there are a couple deviations. In my own church I see this floor plan, with a side chapel off to the left and the choir to the right of the altar. 

While vaults and arches were commonly seen with structure, modern architecture has stepped outside of that formal box. Playing around with shapes and forms continues to be seen in architecture. The image to the right is a good example of the creative ways arches and forms are taking. 



While most people are aware of Gothic styles churches and the general attributes, Gothic styles has taken on a new meaning today. Gothic style in modern time features dark colors often black, red, or blues. Ambient lighting is seen as well as some dramatic light fixtures, or as seen in the image, a fireplace surround. Ceiling details are still a staple but, have been toned down to be tray ceilings, crown molding, moldings around light fixtures. 

Comments

  1. Eva SerratoSeptember 29, 2023 at 9:30 PM

    Meaghan,
    I appreciated how you not only explained the different characteristics of Gothic architecture, but you also explained why they did it. I liked how you went into detail about the interior spaces of the churches and explained how they would make someone feel when they are inside of one. Your analysis on the Barcelona Cathedral was well done and you explained how you found unique characteristics in the interior of the church while also keeping the Gothic style.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Professor VanderNoordaaOctober 1, 2023 at 6:06 AM

    Meaghan,
    I appreciate your approach to presenting information the the Gothic era. Starting out with your detailed description of the vaulting systems and then moving into sharing the strongest examples of Gothic cathedrals was excellent. Cathedral of Notre Dame and Barcelona Cathedral were great examples- I enjoyed all of your supporting images.
    Your paragraphs on Modern Applications were very informative. Your summary of modern cathedrals and the changes they have mad to address egress concerns was excellent. Your examples of creatively using arches and vaulted ceilings was intriguing.
    Total Points: 50/50- Well Done

    ReplyDelete

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