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We Goth You: 8 Elements of Gothic Design

28 June 2021

The Gothic movement, which lasted from the mid-12th century through the 16th century, is distinguished by its elaborate, rich, and dramatic style. When we hear the word, our instant thoughts turn dark and menacing. Nonetheless, this kind of art was designed more for functional purposes than anything else. It was also a time when the building went beyond necessity and focused on aesthetics, resulting in some of the most magnificent constructions the world has ever seen. 

Masons sought a solution to sustain the enormous vaults of intricate constructions throughout the medieval period. Pointed arches, oversized windows, and ribbed vaults were famous in Gothic architecture. Incredibly intricate spires and arched interiors have become pivotal works for later Renaissance architecture. Smaller cathedrals in areas like Prague, Spain, and Russia still have Gothic elements.

The Gothic interior design style is one of the popular but unconventional design choices nowadays. A modern Gothic interior should capture the timeless class and elegance of the High Middle Ages. The dramatics that comes along with gothic design instantly add a touch of offbeat opulence and historical relevance to your space. In this day and age of apartments, condos, and space-saving furniture, selecting a Gothic décor for your home office can conjure up visions of Dracula's fortress. While extravagant, spiny chandeliers projecting from the ceilings and torches illuminating stone walls were previously common in Gothic interiors, they have expanded to suggest drama, purpose, and thrill for homeowners and guests alike.

A modern Gothic interior may be stunning when done well, but it is one of the most difficult styles to execute. If you're like me and constantly want to add a personal and unique flair to your area, such as your bedroom and workspace, here some elements as well as tips on styling your Gothic interiors:

First, Inspiration

Are you, once again like me, who also can't seem to get enough of the game The Sims? Today, many people got their first sense of architectural ideas while playing the game and building their own homes. Many interior designers started their start by discovering a design online and then modifying it in The Sims. You can use the same method to decorate your interiors. When you see a design that appeals to you, you can imagine a look that you can later change by utilizing new paint colors, flooring, or furniture. 

Intricate Architectural Features

Arcs, moldings, and other elements should all work together to create a castle-like ambiance. Pointed arches and ribbed vaults are prime examples of Gothic-style ideal design. Lancet doors and windows – high, narrow windows with pointed arcs framed by thick moldings – are popular in Gothic-style homes. To truly appreciate the original Gothic aesthetic, some even integrate stained glass window effects. The hallways also have a pointed arch ceiling that mimics the form of a lancet.

Dark, Rich Colors

The apparent option for making your room appear more gothic in design is to use a lot of blacks. While this usually is an excellent idea, excessive usage of black materials can result in a clichéd dark mansion. As a result, it's critical to choose some rich, dramatic hues that work well with the Gothic design. Dark purples, greens, reds, and blues have all been used in homes to include the Gothic movement.

If these shades are too bold for you, you can incorporate them in indirect ways. Try painting only the ceiling in one of these vibrant colors. This is an excellent idea if you want to highlight the pointed arches of your entryway or the magnificence of your chandeliers. Use these colors in embellishments and artwork to pick up on the motif without going overboard.

Victorian Elements

Victorian-style interiors are one of the most prominent themes in Gothic architecture. Elaborate Victorian designs give Gothic rooms an extensive and exquisite impression. Walls not painted in vivid hues are usually wallpapered with exquisite brocade or damask designs and patterns. Pick a wallpaper with a velvety texture if you want to add extra drama. To add texture to the walls, dark wood, stone, or brick panels are commonly utilized. If you want your home to feel solemn and majestic without the gloomy and dark aura that Gothic interior designs are known to bring, consider a Victorian interior design.

Dark Furnishing

Just as you don't always have to paint all your walls black, the same goes for your pieces of furniture. If you have minimized the dark hues on your walls so you can go crazy with the other aspects of your home or office, your furniture, including its color, may just be your Gothic accent in a space. In this case, folks like me would like the work desk to be the focal point of my workspace, and that means integrating dark hues and contemporary design with the rest of the classic and elegant feel of the area. 

Neutrals are the primary colors you can find for modern furniture, as well as innovations such as standing desks. FlexiSpot has a wide array of ergonomic products such as sit-stand desks and fixed-height desks, and about all of them come in, of course, black, then there's white, as well as wood finishes. Below are what we can recommend for your Gothic interior:

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Fabrics and Draperies

Elegant fabrics must be applied in a robust and dramatic setting, such as the Gothic style. The drapery fabrics are not tricky to select. Long and hefty drape panels are chosen because they create a more grandiose mood. It was vital in the Victorian era to have such lengthy draperies to prevent drafts from entering the home. Choose silk, satin, or velvet fabrics in vibrant colors, textures, and patterns. For Gothic windows, lengthy, heavy drapes laced with lavish tassels, fringes, and tiebacks are ideal. Tapestries can also be used to cover pillows and furniture.

Lighting

CANDLES

Candleholders look fantastic in a gothic setting. The primary reason for this is the significance of candle lighting in this style. Whether scented or unscented, Candles may have a fantastic effect when it comes to furnishing your home in gothic style. You may adorn tables with elegant, metal candelabras and candlesticks.

CHANDELIERS

A chandelier will suffice to fulfill the artistic aspects. A more decorative fixture, on the other hand, will best accentuate the romantic, scenic feeling. Make a chandelier the focal point of your foyer, corridor, or home office to lighten up an otherwise dark space. The dining room is another popular spot for a chandelier. Long dining room tables were a typical element in Gothic-style homes, and you'll want to include that characteristic in yours as well.

Chandeliers constructed of wrought iron would be ideal for a Gothic interior. A chandelier is the best way to bring Gothic splendor to your environment. If you have a small room or low ceilings, a simple light fixture with beautiful crystals will suffice. To a huge wrought-iron chandelier that you may already have, you can add bulbs that mimic candle flames.

LAMPS/SCONCES

There are many unique gothic lighting options available in the market, but try to concentrate on more intricately decorated lamps. Accent your vividly colored walls with ceramic or wrought iron sconces and lamps. 

Intricate Moldings

In Gothic style, details are vital, and the more complex, the better. When contemplating architecture and other design aspects, moldings are an easy method to add texture and refinement. A brilliant example has molded panels on the walls. Another option is to add some beautiful molding lines along the border of the ceiling. Suppose you have a more modern home office. In that case, there are some ways to add the same touch of grandeur without undergoing a complete renovation, such as adding an imitation stone wall or a simulated fireplace.

Blending Gothic elements with those from other eras will keep your rooms from looking dull and gloomy. The Gothic interior design is neither for the faint of heart or the unsophisticated. If you decide to redesign or remodel your home office or house Gothic-style, prepare to embrace dramatic elements that will make you feel genuinely classy and luxurious.