Episode Information Trade Secrets Monmouth

Date Published:

17/06/2008

So you've found your plot of land, you've saved your cash and you have a dream, to create your own Gothic masterpiece. But how do you make sure you get it right?

Unlike Jo and Shaun's Gothic Grand Design in Monmouth, it would perhaps be better to start by getting expert advice. It's then a case of doing a lot of research.

If you want to 'go Gothic' there are really only two ways to do it: with beauty or with humour! Whichever route you take, a good starting point is to look to the masters for inspiration and go back to the roots of the Gothic movement. Gothic originated in 12th century France - when it was used in the design of churches and cathedrals - and it still captures the imagination today. Key aspects of the trend include towers and spires, pointed arches, stained glass and 'cusping' - that's elaborate stone carving to you and me.

One of the finest qualities of Gothic architecture is the wonderfully fine detail evident upon close inspection. From afar Gothic buildings are spectacular, but up close the craftsmanship, care and attention that was put into construction is clearly visible. Unlike architecture from other periods, Gothic buildings actually look better the closer you get.

Gothic went out of fashion during the Renaissance but was revived to become the dominant style of Victorian Britain. The Gothic house pictured left, built by Horace Walpole and named 'Strawberry Hill' in Twickenham, is a perfect example of the style.

If you're thinking of going Gothic yourself then just remember every surface and every feature must tell a story. In one of Walpole's rooms, the screens were inspired by similar ones in Rouen Cathedral and the fireplace drew inspiration from the tomb of an Archbishop at Canterbury. But remember, each feature will make a massive impact.

When you think of Gothic, you with think of heraldic colours like ruby red, sapphire blue and gold but it's also about creating the same brood and atmosphere that you find in old churches and castles. Walpole rather brilliantly called it 'gloomth' and achieved this feeling by painting his walls a sombre shade of grey. The best materials to use are wood and stone, although even Walpole cheated and created his ceilings from papier mache made to look like stone.

There's still the small matter of Gothic details. Where do you go? Some might fancy a concrete gargoyle from the local garden centre but the genuine article is far more satisfying and you'll be surprised at what you can find at your local salvage yard.

Gothic is on its way back, being more and more commonly used as a refreshing antidote to the status quo of minimalist contemporary interiors. The majority of Gothic items up for grabs at antiques fairs and salvage yards tend to be from the Victorian era, because most medieval Gothic items are generally protected in their original buildings, and rightly so. But with a bit of time, energy, and creativity, as well as a proper respect for quality of craftsmanship, it is still possible to achieve an authentic look and feel. Part of that creativity will include coming up with ways of hiding your mod cons, such as incorporating underfloor heating and integrated audio networks for TV speakers.

Trying to replicate any historical look is a real challenge. So before you even start, think about whether you have the time, dedication and budget.