I have chosen the Nave of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris. I chose this piece of architecture because of its ornate windows and walls.
As I look at this building, I am immediately struck with awe. The golden walls and arches of the Nave, combined with the large stained glass windows and blue ceiling, create the feeling that I have just stepped into heaven on earth.
The stained glass windows, which start about four to five feet above head level, reach up to the top of the ceiling, as if they are reaching up to heaven. The tops of the windows terminate into an arch, reinforcing this idea. The windows are framed with gold pillars that continue upwards towards the point of the ceiling, joining with other pillars and together creating yet another arch of gold. The height and width of the room contribute to the idea of the arches reaching into the heavens, as the nave is three times as tall as it is wide, drawing the focus of the viewer upwards.
The ceiling, which appears to be a velvety blue cloth placed between the arches, is accented with gold dots, giving the appearance of stars. This color scheme reinforces the idea that the chapel is designed to bring heaven to earth, creating a special place for the worship of man for God.
Finally, the idea of sacred space is further advanced by a large golden archway, culminating in a golden cross, above the main door of the chapel. Inside this archway appears to be a small golden altar, which is the main center of worship in Catholic churches. The location of the altar, while being impractical for the consecration and service of the sacraments, further alludes to a special link between heaven and earth in this building.
The Nave of Sainte-Chappelle is located in Paris, France, and is attached to the Royal Palace. It is 32 ft. wide by 99.5 ft tall, and was built from 1243 to 1248. It is a piece of gothic architecture, incorporating arches, statuary, and stained glass windows to create a prime example of 13th Century Gothic.