In Dream Cities, Wade Graham’s chapter on “The Romantic City” delves into the works and influence of Bertram Goodhue, an architect who brought a unique vision to early 20th-century American architecture through his interpretations of Spanish and Gothic revival styles. Goodhue’s Romantic City concept manifests in white stucco facades, barred windows, and iconic red-tiled roofs, creating a sense of cohesive, visually rich urban spaces that evoke the charm and spirituality of old Spanish towns. This architectural vision is best exemplified in Goodhue’s design competitions for iconic religious structures, such as the Saint John the Divine Cathedral in New York and his winning design for Saint Matthew Cathedral in Dallas​.

Goodhue’s fascination with the Gothic revival was part of a broader architectural movement that aimed to romanticize and recontextualize European architectural motifs within American landscapes. Gothic revival architects emphasized elaborate ornamentation, often using pointed arches, tracery, and intricate stonework to create an evocative, almost mythic atmosphere that contrasted with the industrial aesthetic popular at the time. Churches, villas, and castles in this style sought to infuse spaces with historical grandeur and a sense of continuity, aiming to evoke an emotional connection to the past. This Gothic aesthetic became a defining feature of urban landscapes in various American cities, shaping public spaces and private estates alike with an ethos of timeless beauty and romantic allure