How Wren Designed St Paul’s: Key Features and Innovations Flashcards

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What main architectural style did Wren use for the new St Paul’s Cathedral?

He used a classical Baroque style with columns, domes and rounded arches, based on ancient Roman and Renaissance buildings, instead of the old Gothic style with pointed arches.

What is the most famous feature of Wren’s design for St Paul’s?

The huge central dome is the most famous feature. It rises above the whole church and became the main shape on London’s skyline.

How was Wren’s dome design for St Paul’s innovative?

He built the dome in three layers: an inner brick dome that people see inside, a hidden brick cone to carry the weight, and an outer wooden dome covered in lead for the outside shape. This made the dome strong but not too heavy.

How did Wren combine old and new ideas in the ground plan of St Paul’s?

He kept a long Latin cross plan like a traditional cathedral, with a nave and choir in a straight line. But he made the central space under the dome much wider and higher, so the dome is the main focus.

How did Wren’s design try to protect St Paul’s from future fires?

He used thick stone walls, stone vaulted ceilings and very little timber in the roof. He also used hard Portland stone on the outside, which does not burn.

What hidden supports did Wren use to keep the dome and high walls from pushing outwards?

He used concealed flying buttresses built into the roof space and upper walls, instead of open buttresses on the outside. He also put iron chains around the base of the dome, like hoops on a barrel, to hold it in.

What are the key features of Wren’s west front (main entrance) to St Paul’s?

It has a grand double portico with tall columns, reached by broad steps. Above it stand two matching towers, which give the cathedral a balanced and impressive front.

How did Wren design St Paul’s to feel light and open inside?

He used large clear windows in the nave and around the drum of the dome to let in daylight. He also planned long, straight views from the west door to the high altar, with few walls blocking the way.

What is the Whispering Gallery, and what does it show about Wren’s dome design?

The Whispering Gallery is a circular walkway inside the dome, high above the floor. It shows how thick and carefully curved the inner dome is, and its shape makes sound travel in a special way.

How did Wren use models and plans when designing St Paul’s?

He drew several different plans and built large wooden models, such as the “Great Model”, to show his ideas. He then changed and improved the design while the cathedral was being built.

How did Wren’s design make St Paul’s stand out in London’s skyline?

He made the dome and its lantern very tall, rising above all other buildings of the time. The twin west towers also add height, so people could see St Paul’s from far across the city.

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