Jacob's INT 231 Blog.

 WHAT I LEARNED:  This week, I learned about the development of English design during the Early and Middle Renaissance. Unlike Italy and France, England adopted Renaissance ideas slowly because it was more isolated from continental Europe. Its climate and available materials also affected its architecture. England had large oak forests and a strong woodworking tradition, so timber construction, oak paneling, carved furniture, and timber roofs became important characteristics. The Early Renaissance became known as the " Age of Oak." The Tudor period marked the beginning of the English Renaissance, although many buildings and furnishings still had a Gothic appearance. Tudor buildings often used exposed timber framing, while fireplaces became more common symbols of comfort and wealth. Furniture remained fairly sparse and heavy. Box-shaped chairs, chests, beds, trestle tables, settle chairs, and gate-leg tables were common. These pieces were practical, but their carved legs and h...