During the Middles Ages, in approximately the 12th century, Gothic furniture had its first rise in popularity when it originated in churches. The style, based on Gothic architecture was founded in France and later made popular in 19th century England as well as the United States.

What started in the churches later moved in wealthy homeowners as they sought for the same opulence the churches were displaying. The style later became popular again in the Victorian era when Gothic revival homes were built.

But what exactly, is Gothic style furniture? Major contributions to the design aspect have been led by French furniture designers. Significant characteristics of Gothic furniture include the use of arches, columns, folds, shapes, cut outs and carvings. While the craftsmen of Gothic furniture used many things for inspiration in their projects, foliage was a popular trend as was using the trefoil, quatrefoil and cinquefoil as well as cusping, floral motifs, dogtooths and the popular Tudor rose with five open petals in ornamentation. Gothic furniture was predominantly made out of different types of wood, largely oak, but crafters also used rosewood, mahogany, walnut and cherry for Gothic carvings in furniture.

Other accents added to Gothic furniture include metal mountings that put locks on chests as well as creating ornamental motifs, occasionally with jewels on the mountings, hasps and lids of cases. Other designers preferred to hang tapestries of fabric over the Gothic furniture. These fabrics are typically heavy fabrics such as velvet or brocade to add a sense of luxury to the furniture, especially during the Gothic Revival times.

Popular pieces of furniture to make in a Gothic style are chests, chairs, large dining tables, even creating large arching entryways in your living room dominate a Gothic-styled home. In a bedroom, platform beds are a popular choice in Gothic -styled homes. Chairs tend to be tall, with high-backs and rarely any cushioning. Another popular piece of furniture created in Gothic style is the sideboard which tends to have plenty of storage space, but still with elaborate carvings and ornate trim. Large carved trunks used in traveling were also quite popular as well as decorative stained-glass windows.

Over the last 20 years, there has been something of a second Gothic revival as consumers look for unique seating, tables, beds and other Gothic furniture. The influences of ancient Roman and Medieval architectural designs can be seen across the world today as homeowners base their designs on the popular Gothic style.

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