The High Victorian Gothic style developed in England in around the mid point of the 19 th century. English architect John Ruskin, author of "The Seven Lamps of Architecture" (1849) was a major proponent of the style, finding "constructural coloration" superior to superficially applied color. Initially, this style was inspired by English medieval architecture, but later it drew from medieval French and German building traditions as well. The High Victorian Gothic style did not fully emerge in the United States until after the Civil War. Since this style was most often employed for high-style public buildings or mansions, it was essentially an urban building type. It was often used for the design of schools and libraries.

The High Victorian Gothic style is similar to the earlier Gothic Revival style, but is a more heavier, more substantial version of the style. The High Victorian Gothic style was used mostly for large scale public buildings like schools, churches, or government offices, but was sometimes chosen for mansions or homes of substantial size. Always executed in brick or stone, High Victorian Gothic buildings are distinguished by the use of polychrome bands of decorative masonry. Stone quoins, pressed brick, and terra cotta panels were commonly used. Windows and doors were accented with brick or stone trim, often in contrasting colors. The Gothic pointed arch may be present at windows, entrances, and decorative dormers and cross gables. Round turrets with corbelled brickwork and conical roofs are common to this style as well.