The architecture now deemed as Gothic originated in 12th century France. It soon became a trend-setting architecture and design style of central Europe. For many years it flourished independently of baroque and mannerist influences. The monumental Gothic structures of Cologne Cathedral, Ulm Minster, Chartres Cathedral and Rheinstein Castle can be considered some of the most memorable architectural feats of all time.
After a couple of centuries’ dormancy, this style was revived with neo-Gothic expressions in the 18th century. Its influences reached far and wide. Even distant places in Malaysia, far removed from neo-Gothic structures of Europe, could not escape its charm. The Church of St Francis Xavier in Melaka, Convent Bukit Nanas and the interior of St Mary’s Cathedral in Kuala Lumpur showcase some of these neo-Gothic influences. Even in this present day and age, Gothic charm has not become irrelevant. Neither should it be confined to sacred churches and majestic palaces—it's a style that is remarkably suitable for a modern home. Today, we will share with you some tips about introducing Gothic charm into your living room.
Be prepared to make bold statements. Your Gothic style living room needs a dark colour scheme – the darker the better.
A colour palette dominated by striking black, dark grey, carmine, burgundy, chestnut brown or midnight blue is perfectly suited for a Gothic living room. Alternatively, you can choose ebonised wall panels to decorate your rooms.
A darkly Gothic room requires ample lighting to keep it bright and cheerful all day long. Use Gothic inspired wrought iron chandeliers, pendant lighting, torches, table and floor lamps to decorate your lounge area.
Lighting fixtures carved out of natural wood like walnut, rosewood and ebony are also perfectly suited for these styles. Place medieval candle holders with dark red candles on your mantelpiece, dining table and corner brackets.
In the words of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, “The principle of the Gothic architecture is infinity made imaginable.” It shattered many of the architectural and design norms that were considered sacred in classical structures. Decorating your living room with quirky pieces like animal skulls or skeletons – not the real ones, though – may defy the normal standards of elegant interior, but would certainly be true to Gothic tradition.
See how Zac and Zac designed this space with luscious red table lamps, a quirky animal skull and stylishly framed mirror. The wallpaper depicting rural scenes also increases its charm.
Ornate wood furniture including couches, tables and lounge chairs would give your living room a proper medieval flavour. Natural wood furniture made of cherrywood, rosewood, walnut or teak are extremely durable and can last for generations. Pieces like these add value to your home and augment the grace of your interiors.
Woodcraft is highly evolved in Malaysia, so it would not be too difficult for you to choose articles of décor that are highly intricate and influenced by Gothic charm.
Use plush silk, velvet, cotton or satin to upholster your couches, daybeds, stools and chairs. Luxurious damask, jacquard or brocade fabrics in dark shades look stunning in a Gothic setting.
You can also select leather, pleather or vinyl upholstery for your furniture.
Classical design, be it baroque or Gothic, has a deep appreciation for opulent fabric. For a proper Gothic ambience, choose curtain fabrics like satin, velvet or taffeta. Keep the length at pooling or floating level.
Curtain pleats are also important and can give your rooms a very elegant makeover. Pencil pleats, box pleats, double or triple pleats look classy for any part of your building.
Want more off-the-wall interiors? See these tips to give your home a regal makeover.