Style guides

How to Get the Gothic Style

Nothing quite says Halloween like the good old Gothic style interior! The spooky, dramatic homes fit for Dracula, the king of vampires, are popping up everywhere these days and sending chills of interior envy down our spines.

But they are also begging us to break the curse that’s been following them for centuries!

Even though the Gothic style is a synonym of the season, truth be told, there is nothing sinister about it. Gothic interior design is one of the most beautiful yet misunderstood interior decorating styles there is, so if you are a lover of luxury and edginess, join us on a quest to bust the commonplace myths built around this gorgeous aesthetic!

Image source: Historishka Hem

Old Silvered Antelope Skull, Circa 1930 £1,076.70

Gold Skull (22ct) £135.00

History of the Gothic Style

To fully appreciate the Gothic interior design we first need to understand its roots.

The term Gothic is generally applied to architecture and massive medieval cathedrals of the 12th century. After ages of small, dark church construction, monumental Gothic cathedrals emerged as the embodiments of divine grandeur. Through superior building techniques, Gothic architecture celebrates light and brings the spiritual forcefully and continuously to consciousness. Gothic cathedrals are true temples for reflecting on the might of God, so everything about these buildings needed to be majestic and breathtaking. Extremely high ceilings, pointed arches, tall, stained glass windows and endless surfaces of luxurious, ornate decorations became some of the most well-known demystifiers of the style.

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On the other hand, Gothic interior decorating was meant to be used in private residences, so the scale had to be significantly downsized. The Victorian era of 19th century Europe gave birth to a Gothic revival interior design that embraced basic elements of Gothic architecture while respecting a modern lifestyle and preferences. Perhaps they were no longer suited for a God, but with their refined elegance and lavish luxury Gothic homes were undoubtedly a perfect fit for a king.

Today, modern Gothic homes flirt with other interior styles and display a variety of looks ranging from very subtle to incredibly dark and moody. But all of them share the same basic principles.

Image source: Historishka Hem

School Wall Chart Published By Hagemann, Skillet, 1974 £173.75

How to Spot the Style

Mysterious, out-of-this-world elegance, ornate decorations, and dark, vibrant colours are the hallmarks of the Gothic style.

Decadent and highly sensual, the Gothic style interior design is all about making a bold statement. Not everyone will be capable of pulling off the dramatic excitement of a Gothic style home without feeling overwhelmed by its cathedral-like atmosphere. However, those who manage to find their way with this look are promised to end up with a private divinely-inspired sanctuary.

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Striking Large Antique Gothic Carved Panel Panelling £1,440.00

Gothic style furniture and architectural elements feature highly intricate surfaces, with a variety of patterns and mouldings that can be found all across the room. Anthropomorphic furnishings with carved legs and backs usually depict roses, trefoils, pointed arches and spirals which are also used as the central motifs for upholstery and stained glass.

With strong vertical lines and lots of natural light emphasising the openness of the space, stained glass is by far the most effective way for emulating a church-like feel of a Gothic style interior design.

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Hanging Lamp In The Gothic Style In Wrought Iron £2,513.03

Gothic style furniture is usually made of heavy oak (you will want to keep your eyes on retired pieces from old churches) and covered with high-end fabrics such as velvet, silk and satin. Heavy drapes and delicate bedding evoke the feel of a secluded, glamorous retreat while their strong palette of colours suggests glamour and prestige.

To complement the majestic theme and encourage the seriousness and extravagance of the space, Gothic colours are usually dark and somber. Black is always a magnificent choice, but so are purples, greens, browns, blues, and reds.

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Swedish Gothic Revival Bookcase £3,500.00

Pattern and art pieces with flowers and greenery are common, as well as the dark wallpapers and eccentric sketches of skulls and sculptures of hands. Candlesticks with half-burnt candles and vintage vases full of casually picked up branches are used for their effortlessness and feel of warmth and homeliness they bring about.

Lavish antique chandelier holds court above the centre of the room, while an ornate fireplace anchors the theme by giving the room one last push towards a well-defined cathedral-like atmosphere.

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Victorian Cast Iron Combination Grate Decorated In The Gothic Manner On Sale £945.00

Get the Look

You won’t need a Victorian mansion to be able to pull off the Gothic theme in your home. The easiest way to get the look is by mixing high-end furniture with curious antiques.

Start with a statement chandelier and build from it. You will need an ornate sofa or at least an armchair (think Victorian-inspired colours at all times) and some carefully selected details, such as candlesticks or quirky vintage art pieces.

If it is by any chance possible, opt for a fireplace as it will elevate the look like no other item. Even if it is just a prop, it is still a fabulous idea.

Don’t fear dark walls and use rich and heavy materials for drapes and upholstery.

Feast your eyes on the pieces from our collection and let us know which ones you prefer!