The Spanish Period

It was said that the 16th century was considered the most brilliant era in Spanish history. During this time religiously and culturally there was a fusion of the Christian Spain society with the Moorish society. Moors were individuals from Africa that were supreme ornamentalist, fine geometricians, and did work that involved naturalistic representation, colorful, exuberant and fancy detail, along with wood detailing. Moors that converted to Christianity we called the Mudejar. Historically this time was influenced by the Moorish, Early Christian, Medieval, and Italian Renaissance.

Moorish influenced design, decoration and architecture is seen at Alhambra in Grenada Spain from 1354. Its numerous courtyards and memorable design is flourishing with beauty. Fountains and reflecting pools were common during this time.

Alhambra Court of Lions

Alhambra at Night

Carried over from the Gothic period, Cathedrals were still built during this time and they held very ornamental features.  Renaissance and Gothic vaulted ceilings, Rejas- or decorative iron grilles,  and Plateresco. The Plateresco phase consisted of minute and delicate ornament architectures that resembled the work of a silversmith. There was also the Desornamentado phase that wast large and powerful, but with less detail.

Modern Plateresco design at Balboa Park in San Diego California

Modern front door with Spanish inspired iron decoration

Spanish design inspired modern stair rail

 My favorite place during this time was El Escorial, 30 miles northwest of Spain. It is massive and a highly moral and royal place for monarchy. Interiors in Spain were prided upon their fine leather works known as cordoba leather, their colorful patterned tile work, and massive pieced of artwork in gold frames. Furniture, walls, floors and ceilings were lined with great detail, and bold decoration that completed a room.

El Escorial Library

One of El Escorial's Courtyards

Spanish design is a fusion  of many inspirations from different eras. Design elements from the Spanish period are used today, and can be seen residentially, and commercially. Spanish design is often the influence of hotels, and vacation destinations.

Spanish influenced entryway

Spanish influenced kitchen

For more information on Spanish art, history and architecture please look at http://www.spanish-art.org/spanish-architecture-renaissance.html

For more on the modern design of the Spanish period please look at http://www.houzz.com/modern-spanish-architecture-designs