Home decor
What is the history behind modern gothic decor?
Here’s a good history exam question for you: what’s the difference between gothic, neo-gothic, and modern gothic? Fortunately, we’re not here to test you. In fact, we’re giving you all the answers. ‘Gothic’ refers to a style between the mid-12th and 16th centuries. An architectural practice popularised across Europe, it was mainly used when constructing cathedrals and castles. Think cavernous ceilings, intricate masonry, enormous stain glass windows and a few gargoyles for good measure. It was made infamous by Bram Stoker’s detailed description of Dracula’s castle: its great round arches and iron-studded stone doors.
‘Neo-gothic’, on the other hand, refers to the 19th-century revival of this medieval Gothic style. Gorgeous examples are the Natural History Museum, with its bestial “gargoyles” and St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel—next to the train station—both in London.
And then, bringing us right up to the current day, we have the modern gothic decor trend.
What is modern gothic decor?
Just as the Victorians went a bit mad for all things gothic, we’re reinventing this decor trend to suit today’s needs. Modern gothic decor isn’t quite as fussy and cluttered as its counterparts. It embraces both old and new design elements whilst emphasising the quirky, the unexpected, and the weird. Don’t be surprised to find anything from a neon ‘memento mori’ skull candle to an antique crucifix hung above a functional home office in a modern gothic house. If there’s one thing modern gothic decor isn’t, it’s boring.
