This paper presents a conceptual design for a future residence built in the Gothic Revival architectural style. The author describes the historical and emotional appeal of Gothic Revival architecture before outlining the practical design decisions that shape the proposed three-storey home. Topics covered include exterior finishing, room layout, lighting, natural and artificial heat sources, color palette, acoustic considerations, landscaping, and modern smart-house wiring. The paper balances aesthetic fidelity to Gothic Revival traditions — featuring gargoyles, arched windows, stained glass, and stone surfaces — with the functional demands of contemporary living, including forced-air heating, computer networking, and a pool.
The Gothic Revival style of architecture is a return to the architecture of the Middle Ages. Although popular in Europe, Gothic Revival eventually became especially prominent in both the United States and Europe. Early examples appeared in the 1700s, but the style did not emerge in full force until the 1800s. During this period, churches began to appear in the style, and fashionable homes soon followed, mimicking the Gothic Revival character of those churches. While Gothic Revival can never hope to replicate the craftsmanship of original Gothic architecture, it does draw influence from both the structures and materials of that era (Columbia Encyclopedia).
Like virtually all other styles of architecture, Gothic Revival is much more than a simple mixture of physical building components. Architecture evokes the senses and feeling, and Gothic architecture is no different. The style brings up images and thoughts associated with the Gothic era — evoking mystery, danger, and a profound spirituality. Gothic Revival conjures images of ancient medieval churches, moss-covered stonework, and dark, brooding statues. It recalls days long past and brings to mind thoughts of the supernatural and the spiritual, elements far removed from our modern world of handheld devices and laptop computers.
Perhaps it is this emotive appeal that makes Gothic Revival so attractive as the chosen style for a future home. If life and architecture were driven only by functionality, one could simply design a series of box-like rooms that serve effectively as shelter and living space. However, a worthwhile and interesting life is about more than functionality, and so it follows that a home should speak to much more as well.
Gothic Revival architecture is a perfect choice for the feelings that I want to convey in my home. I want a feeling of mystery and spiritual grandeur — to come home and experience an iota of the awe felt in the presence of a great building. My aim in designing this home is to capture the essence and feeling that define the Gothic Revival style.
Certainly, many practical constraints will limit the ability to design a home fully in the Gothic Revival style. These constraints include cost, space limitations, and applicable building codes. In addition, this home is intended to be built in the mountains, creating potential issues with basement construction in granite bedrock, as well as requiring a reliable heating solution. One serious limitation is the "impossibility of reproducing medieval buildings when there [is] no longer a medieval economy or technology" (Columbia Encyclopedia). Despite these constraints, the design will hold as true to the Gothic Revival style as possible.
The general layout of the building will be a three-storey house with a full basement. Each storey will comprise approximately 1,800 square feet. Ceilings will be a non-standard 10 feet in the first two stories and 12 feet in the third storey. This ceiling height is designed to create an impression of great vertical distance, both from within the house and when viewed from outside.
The external finishing will be wood siding stained a mid-tone grey. Stone would have been preferable but was ruled out due to cost considerations. The façade will feature a twin columnar structure — commonly known as a pier — faced in grey granite available locally. The three structural elements of main arcade, triforium, and clerestory will make up the façade. Twin buttresses will flank the front entrance, and gargoyles will perch on each buttress overlooking the door. Pinnacles will be built on each buttress as well.
The third storey will have a steeply pitched roof covered in grey slate shingles. Unlike many other examples of Gothic Revival architecture, this house will have no gingerbread external trim (Colorado Historical Society). A veranda will exist on one storey only, wrapping around the back and sides of the house. External windows will be arched and incorporate muntin bars.
The entrance on the main floor will feature a double external door with an arched top and small arched windows. This entrance will be recessed into the house at least four feet. Small gargoyle statues will flank the door, which will be made of solid dark wood with a stained glass inset. The double doors will open to reveal a front foyer that is open through all three storeys, occupying approximately 700 square feet. The lower level will be open to the foyer, while the upper levels will be closed, with the exception of several windows overlooking the foyer space.
"Room-by-room layout across all floors"
"Lighting, fireplaces, color palette, and sound control"
"Smart-house wiring, LAN server, and outdoor design"
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