Some of the most breathtaking interior spaces ever built are found inside old cathedrals. They were designed centuries ago, but the atmosphere of a cathedral still leaves a stunning impression.
The architects of these buildings understood that how a building was shaped could influence how people felt inside. They used vaulted ceilings, filtered light, and other elements to create expansive interiors that create a sense of peace and calm.
Cathedrals were also known places where people felt more connected to God. For many worshippers, the space encouraged a state of reflection and openness. Sunlight pouring through the stained glass windows and music echoing through the space encouraged contemplation.
In these moments, people felt especially receptive to spiritual insight and some even heard the voice of God. That’s not surprising since many spiritual traditions and churches, including non-denominational congregations, teach that openness and receptivity are powerful ways to hear God’s voice.
Today’s homeowners can use many of these same design ideas to create peaceful interior spaces in their homes. Even if you can’t recreate an entire cathedral, adapting a few inspired design principles (like vertical space, natural light, and detailed architecture) can transform any room.
1. Vaulted ceilings or “cathedral ceilings” make spaces feel more open
While there is a difference between vaulted ceilings and cathedral ceilings, both bring positive benefits associated with vertical space. For example, elevated ceilings help music and voices travel through a room easier and allow sounds to linger in the air. Many of the old cathedrals can reverberate a single note for up to eight seconds after it’s been sung. That’s why music sounds better in old churches and also creates a visceral experience for some.
When the ceiling sits at a dramatic height, it feels like the entire space is bigger. High ceilings dramatically change how a room feels. Even if you have the same square footage, the extra height automatically makes any space feel bigger. In fact, ceilings over eight feet tall are considered a highly desirable feature for home buyers. In a traditional home, exposed beams and angled ceilings create a similarly open, warm, and inviting feeling.
2. Light is a powerful design tool
Old cathedrals are famous for glowing interiors, thanks to the tall, thin windows made of stained glass. The architects specifically designed these windows to cast colorful designs across the stone floors and walls to facilitate inner stillness.
You can mimic this style of lighting in your home, even without major renovations. For example, large windows and skylights will allow more sunlight to pour into your home and reduce your reliance on artificial lighting.
However, the best approach is to use layered lighting to create a richer atmosphere. With the help of a professional lighting designer, you can get the right combination of overhead light fixtures, accent lighting, task lighting, and other elements (like wall sconces and chandeliers) to create more depth throughout your home.
3. It’s all about symmetry
Part of what makes old cathedrals so impressive is the symmetry involved in their construction. Every aspect of a cathedral lines up in perfect balance, from the arches and columns to the windows and even the stone floors. Symmetry puts the mind at ease and creates space for introspection and a sense of calm.
You can organize your home’s interior with symmetry to create the same feeling of peace in your home. For example, put matching chairs on either side of your couch to make your layout feel intentional. You can also repeat certain patterns or shapes in the form of wall décor and throw pillows. And to mimic the focal point of a cathedral’s altar, you can make your fireplace or a large piece of artwork the focal point of your main living space.
4. Natural materials create a sense of beauty
Most cathedrals were built from stone, wood, and metal. These materials not only last for centuries, but they improve the acoustics of a space and age quite well. A stone fireplace or accent wall will instantly improve the aesthetics of your living space and increase the perceived value of your home.
Using exposed wooden beams will draw attention to your high ceilings, and wrought iron railings and light fixtures (or other decorative metalwork) add a touch of elegance to your home.
Improve your home’s aesthetics with cathedral-inspired design
There’s a reason people feel amazing when they walk into an old cathedral. The massive ceilings, natural light, symmetry, and reverberation feel peaceful and otherworldly. But you don’t need to build a cathedral to get a similar experience in your home. You just need to incorporate a handful of elements into your existing space to make your home feel bigger, brighter, and more balanced.