How did Reims Cathedral differ visually from Durham Cathedral?

Reims Cathedral and Durham Cathedral differ significantly in their architectural style, engineering, and visual appearance, representing the transition from Romanesque architecture to the French High Gothic period.

• Architectural Style: Durham Cathedral is an outstanding example of the Norman Romanesque style, characterized by massive pillars and thick walls required for structural support. In contrast, Reims Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, utilizing advanced engineering to achieve greater height and openness.1234
• Engineering and Light: Reims employs flying buttresses to support its structure, which allowed architects to replace solid wall space with large, light-filled windows and stained glass. Durham, built earlier, relies on its massive masonry for stability, resulting in a more enclosed, fortress-like appearance.3412
• Decorative Features: Reims is noted for its elegant masonry sculpture and the use of bar tracery to subdivide window openings. Durham’s interior is defined by its bold, geometric carvings on massive pillars and its historic Romanesque ribbed groin vault.312

While Reims emphasizes verticality and the aesthetic of light, Durham reflects the power and structural solidity of the Norman era.14