Duke Chapel is an example of neo-Gothic architecture in the English style. Gothic architecture is characterized by large stone piers, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which allow the creation of vast open spaces, uninterrupted by columns for support.
Materials
In Duke Chapel, the Gothic tradition is updated by the use of steel trusses, instead of wooden ones, to support the roof. In addition to reducing fire hazards, the use of steel helps to reduce the load on the Chapel’s walls, eliminating the need for large flying buttresses.