19th century architecture

The 19^th century architecture is mainly characterized by the application of various historical styles and the development of new materials and structures.

Among the many styles present at that time, The Gothic Revival style probably stood out the most. This architectural movement started in the late 1740s in England. It became popular in the early 19^th century when admirers of Neo-Gothic styles made efforts to revive medieval Gothic architecture while Neo-Classicism was prevailing then. A wide range of religious, civic and domestic buildings were constructed and furnished in this particular style that was flourishing then. Gothic Revival architecture varied in its focus towards both ornamental styles and medieval origin’s principles of construction. Architectural elements such as pointed arches, steep-sloping roofs and ornamental openwork patterns were frequently used. Contemporary materials and construction methods are also applied.

The emergence of new materials resulting from new industrial needs was also a vital part of 19^th century architecture. A product of Industrial Revolution, cast iron was most popular for architectural use. It was widely used for a number of reasons. It is a cheaper way to reproduce ornate facades. More complicated structures could be mass produced quickly. Prefabrication of cast iron made it portable, such that an entire building could be built in one place and be shipped worldwide. The molds for cast iron can also be reused, which can be utilized to produce architectural catalogs of module patterns for future clients. The molds also made repair of damaged parts easier.

John Ruskin was one of the most influential art critic during the 19^th century and his interest lied in Medieval Architecture. This particular interest was aroused by his travels in Europe where he did detailed watercolor studies regarding decoration and colour of buildings. The Seven Lamps of Architecture and The Stones of Venice are two of his most important book which had great impact on the Gothic Revival. The spiritual values of Middle ages are often lost with the mechanized and materialistic era which Ruskin lived in and I find it a huge relief that there are still people like him who cares about values beneath the surface.