Gothic Revival Architecture: Halloween in Architecture
Based in Essex, the team here at Munday + Cramer are passionate about all thing’s architecture. In fact, there is little we don’t know about this topic and how it has developed through the decades. With Halloween just around the corner, we thought it would be fitting to discuss the art of Gothic Revival architecture – an incredibly popular approach to design and one of our personal favourites!
What is Gothic Revival architecture?
Taking things one step back, let’s take a look at Gothic architecture and its origin, before looking at its revival.
Gothic architecture was an incredibly popular style in the 12th century. Most commonly seen throughout Europe, this design type was popular right into the 16th century and many buildings of this ilk still stand today.
During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, a movement began within England in an attempt to bring back the popularity that once surrounded this style. As such, Gothic Revival architecture was born. This style has now been adopted in countries around the world, including the United States, whose architects took much inspiration from the style in these times.
Original Gothic and Gothic Revival architecture was used for churches, cathedrals and universities. Although this style was once associated with religion and academia, the Gothic style is now more commonly considered to be ‘spooky’ – perfect for this time of year!
Why do we associate this style with Halloween?
Gothic Revival architecture has many distinctive characteristics and is one of the easier styles to spot. But why is it that we associate Gothic features with Halloween?
The main reason we associate this style with Halloween is due to our heavy media influence. When you think of October 31st, you think bats, you think ghosts, you think haunted houses. When we take a look at how the latter are depicted in films and TV shows, we see a direct correlation between this holiday and the Gothic style.
Some of the most common Gothic architecture characteristics include pointed arches, steeply pitched roofs, and front gables. Each of these characteristics are featured within the Harry Potter films, I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, and crime drama Hinterland, to name a few examples. Hogwarts, Gwrych Castle, and St Michaels Church in Aberystwyth each adopt the Gothic architecture style, adding to the eeriness and magic that surrounds this design type.
Famous buildings that have adopted this architecture style
Although you may not think it, the Gothic style is actually still very common, especially here in the UK. In fact, it’s all around us, with many large landmarks sharing its core, traditional features.
Other famous Gothic and Gothic Revival architecture examples within the UK include:
- Westminster Abbey, London
- Gloucester Cathedral
- York Minster, Deangate
- Canterbury Cathedral
- All Souls College, Oxford
- Albert Memorial, London
Contact the team today!
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For more information on how we can help you, get in touch with a member of our team by clicking here. Alternatively, you can also give us a call on 01245 326 200.