Gothic Revival

Gothic Revival was one of the most influential styles of the 19th century. Although it was mostly confined to public buildings, whose large scale lent itself to the style, it was also used for beautiful houses and domestic architecture. It is a style of soaring arches, pointed stained-glass windows and elaborate stone carving. Where the architect has really gone to town, it included gables and gargoyles, turrets and polychrome brickwork.

The style is most often discussed through the works of architects such as Augustus Pugin who, together with Charles Barry, rebuilt the Houses of Parliament after they were burnt down in 1834, and George Gilbert Scott, who created the Grand Hotel in front of St Pancras station.