If you are interested in Gothic architecture, this essay explains how the Elizabethan era was a transitional period between Gothic elements and Renaissance details, with Inigo Jones being the first major British classical architect to introduce Italianate Renaissance architecture to Britain. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on 'Why violent video games should not be banned'? Get the original essay The late onset of the Renaissance in Britain could not have come at a better time. It was thanks to the studies and works of Inigo Jones, an English architect, who introduced Renaissance details into the preserved Gothic elements. Gothic architecture has been an important moment of revival for British culture since Roman influence began to flow out of England. The end of Roman influence caused Britain to fall into a sense of complacency when it came to ideals, not only in culture, but also in religious practices and governmental integrity. It was a period they call the Dark Ages. The Renaissance began in the 14th century in Florence, Italy, inspired by “Renaissance Man” where it aroused curiosity on various subjects. People began to feel the need to ask questions and find answers for themselves. It was a fervent time when cultural, artistic, political and economic ideals were challenged. Architecture, one of the most visibly affected fields, has been challenged by the ideologies of architects like Andrea Palladio. Palladio was the greatest architect of the 16th century located in northern Italy. His projects included Villas and Palazzos. Palladio's distinct style was heavily influenced by his education and connections; in addition to its design focused on aspects of symmetry and geometry influenced by the Vitruvian rules of proportion and symmetry. These same ideas were later interpreted and introduced to Britain by Inigo Jones. Inigo Jones is considered the first important classical British architect to introduce Italian Renaissance architecture to Britain. This could be a misconception. Although Jones's style was distinctly different, the Elizabethan-era architects who preceded him were also influenced by a classical approach. The homes of the Elizabethan period represented various new ideals or features. Exterior features included towers, gables, parapets, balustrades and tall chimneys. Towers, called "wings" internally, were placed on both sides of the design, alluding to the evolution of medieval fortified structures where it was no longer necessary to fortify one's home. The towers and facade were then decorated with the same level of detail to maximize symmetry. Interior features include large rooms and galleries acting as a Piano Nobile or main reception area and a transition between spaces on all floors connecting the two "wings". Wide staircases then connect all the floor levels where you encounter the long galleries in which you move through the private and public spaces. Another Elizabethan feature is the application of floor-to-ceiling windows on all floors and in different spaces. A notion of “more windows than walls” was created and homes began to look outward rather than inward. A perfect example of such details is the Hardwick. Hall in Derbyshire, designed by an architect named Robert Smythson. Hardwick Hall has.