Final answer:
A Gothic arch greenhouse mimics the characteristic pointed arches, ribbed vaulting, and vertical emphasis of Gothic architecture, which flourished between 1000 and 1400 in Europe. Its design would follow the structural ingenuity and aesthetic elements that allowed for open, light-infused spaces in Gothic churches and cathedrals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Gothic arch greenhouse is designed to resonate with the aesthetics of early Gothic architecture, such as that seen in Southwell Minster in Nottinghamshire, England, which dates back to around 1108. Gothic architecture is a style that evolved from Romanesque building techniques, prospering between roughly 1000 to 1400, especially in parts of Britain and France. It is characterised by elements such as pointed arches, ribbed vaulting, and an emphasis on vertical and light.
Central to this architecture is the pointed arch, influenced by Islamic designs and found in the Great Mosque of Damascus, which not only provided structural advantages but also allowed for taller, more slender columns. This innovation paved the way for the open, airy interiors filled with light, thanks to the large stained glass windows, a common aspect of Gothic churches.
Another signature feature of Gothic style is the ribbed vaulting, where ribs form a skeleton that supports the masonry of the ceilings, enabling intricate patterns and a sense of height and grandeur. A Gothic arch greenhouse would likely emulate these design aspects with graceful, pointed profiles and possibly include decorative elements such as finials or tracery reminiscent of ecclesiastical architecture.