ROMANESQUE

Cross-shaped Cathedral

Leaning Tower

Romanesque 800 - 1150

Since the collapse of the Roman Empire, this was the first period that grew a centralized political authority.  In 800, Charles the Great was crowned emperor and he encouraged education of the arts and the construction of different buildings and monasteries using the technology derived from Roman structures. He also worked to preserve and copy Roman literature, thus showing how inspired Emperor Charlemagne was with Roman art and architecture.

Furniture

Few pieces of furniture have survived from this time period, but the ones that are still intact today represent the very famous occupants whom they were made for to begin with.  Charlemagne and Dagobert were two of the very few figures of authority during this time period where centralized political goals were set. 

THEN:

The throne of Dagobert has an X-shaped frame and is completely made of metal.  It's design has been shown in many different time periods prior to this, and has just been altered a bit more regally.

NOW:

This Georgian mahogany library chair has the same shape and general ornamentation of the Throne of Dagobert.  

Outdoor patio furniture in both residential and commercial settings use metals and similar materials to hold against weathering.  

Architecture

Romanesque church plans are loosely based on Early Christian plans.  Their churches are among the finest architectural and interior form and space with respect to how literal and simple each design was.  Cathedrals and churches were literally shaped into a religious cross and the feat of spectacular architectural representation was formed from the inspiration and experimentation from past period's technology and buildings.  Additions to their churches included an area for a choir, better illumination, and much more space to host more people at once for worship.  Rich tapestries and gilded structures were laced throughout the interior with rich cool tones and gold.

Saint Sernin Floor Plan - Toulouse, France

THEN:

Apse of the Fontenay Abbey in Burgundy, France.

NOW:

Whether in a residential or a commercial application, long hallways complete with tall arches are found in modern design that are similar to the grand, luxurious atmosphere of the apse in Romanesque churches.