(B5) KEY FEATURES OF GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE

Gothic style can vary depending on location, age and the type of building (the purpose as such). However, to identify these buildings architects use five key architectural features:

Large stained glass windows

This is why gothic architecture is usually associated with places of worship as this feature is prevalent in Gothic cathedrals. "Featuring meticulously cut coloured glass" which are usually tall and arched windows (lancet) or round (rose). Often taller than the windows typically seen in churches. The idea is to let in technicolour light. It is also known that these windows frequently feature tracery, which is decorative stone support.

Pointed arches

Another identifiable feature is the pointed arches. These are found in most places of worship i.e churches and cathedrals. It is suggested that the pointed style of these arches was taken from Islamic architecture rather than the typical Romanesque buildings found typically in Europe. The idea behind the shape of these windows was to accentuate the height of these buildings and to symbolise reaching the skies. 

Ribbed vaults 

The aim for Gothic buildings was to be taller, have higher raised ceilings etc. In order to support the buildings, architects found a new method that would better support the structures called ribbed vaulting. " Ribbed vaulting involves the use of intersecting barrel vaults—arches placed parallel to one another in order to support a rounded roof". This provides more ornate decoration whilst also providing better structural support. 

Flying buttresses/ buttresses

As well as using ribbed vaulting to support these tall buildings, another technique was used; flying buttresses. These act like splints to distribute the weight better. This meant that the large stained glass windows and thin walls could remain a distinctive feature of the gothic style. Without flying buttresses, Gothic architects would have had to sacrifice these elements in order to maintain the integrity of the building. 

Ornate decoration 

"A final feature found in Gothic architecture is the presence of ornate decorative elements. These include embellished colonnades and colonettes, sculptural mouldings, statues of saints and historical figures, pinnacles and spires, and gargoyles, grotesque figures that double as water spouts."

General notes taken from this article, attempt to write in my own words however, I need more familiarity with the keywords in order to use them appropriately. 

I drew this small visual diagram so, I can visualise these characterising features of Gothic architecture and know what to look for to identify them.