Style Definition
Neo-Gothic is a revival of Gothic architecture, the dominant style of
medieval architecture in Western Europe. Building shapes and details have
a strong vertical emphasis, with sharply pointed arches and finials. An
element of the grotesque is also common, and many Neo-Gothic designs
incorporate gargoyles and rich figurative carving.
Although Gothic architecture is best known
for its cathedrals, the Neo-Gothic draws inspiration also from religious
and secular buildings of the Middle Ages, including town halls and
mercantile structures.
During the eclectic early 20th century when
Neo-Gothic flourished, most architectural firms working in this style were
also fluent in the other popular revival styles. Architects whose output
included major Neo-Gothic buildings included H.
Craig Severance in New York and Robert
S. DeGolyer & Co. in Chicago. The firm of Hood
& Howells, which won the famous Tribune Tower competition, was
instrumental in the transition between Gothic verticality and Art Deco
streamlining.
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