There is a variety of architectural design within buildings in the United Kingdom; however, there is something quite remarkable about the Norman-esque designs from architects in Cheshire. Norman architecture began to rise in popularity during the Middle Ages, as early as the beginning of the 11th Century and ending in the 12th.
Originating in Normandy, the unique architectural style is a form of Romanesque design that was propagated by the Normans who eventually conquered England. The proceeding development of Norman architecture gave birth to the design and build of grand and impenetrable castles, fortresses, forts and cathedrals.
In fact, a lot of Norman Architecture would revolve around religion in some way, becoming smaller places of worship for villagers to large royal cathedrals. A roman church or cathedral will commonly feature a cross-like shape, which originates from the Roman basilica pattern. Another distinct feature of a religious building with Norman architecture roots are the bell towers and campaniles.
Castles that you often see during your exploration of the United Kingdom are generally designed with Norman architectural traits. These castles arose not only in Normandy, but England, Scotland, Ireland and Italy (Italy being home to the Romanesque architectural style that Norman architecture eventually outgrew).
Another distinguishable trait found in Norman architecture is the use of small window frames. Prior to the Gothic Architectural Movement there was a general avoidance of designing large windows due to the risk of building collapse. This often led to buildings designed in a Norman-style being dimly lit and only featuring larger windows later on during the aforementioned Gothic Architectural Movement.
The grander scale of Norman architecture led to the buildings being the tallest in Europe at the time. A grand design in a Norman style that still stands tall to this day is London’s Westminster Abbey. The design of the abbey was largely Norman but has since become distinctively Gothic; however, the Tower of London is a largely Norman design and is a fantastic example of tall, impenetrable Norman Architecture.
Despite Norman, Roman and Gothic not being quite as popular in today’s modern architectural design work; traits can still be found in many structures today and a reliable architectural firm will knowledgeable on various architectural styles.
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