Gothic Architecture Applied to Modern Residences

The Gothic Revival style came to the U.S. in the early 19th century from many different sources, including architects and designers coming to America and through British architectural and design publications. Architects and designers in America started publishing their own manuals and patterns for both builders and homeowners wanting the new styles. Scottish-born architect David Henry Arnot writes in the preface to this pattern book that he is providing uniquely American Gothic Revival designs to suit American needs and tastes: “Although numerous specimens and adaptations of Gothic art (are) already before the public, still they relate to places and purposes foreign to the taste and practice of this country; consequently in this particular branch of art, this work may be considered as the first attempt supply what which has long been felt by both the professional man and amateur.” In this book, Arnot presents designs mostly for architectural ornament and details for woodwork on windows, doors, staircases, ceilings, furniture, chimney pieces, and interior spaces such as parlors.