BYZANTINE

What the heck is the difference between the Byzantine design period and the Early Christian period? They do overlap quite a bit in that they both focus on Christian ornamentation. One difference between Early Christian and Byzantine periods is that Christianity was a religious movement and wasn’t necessarily a “style”, rather Early Christian art and architecture are any works created by Christians at that time. Byzantine was a political and economic designation, and refers to the style of the Eastern European empire during that time period. The primary attribute of Byzantine art and architecture is spirituality.

Again, in the Byzantine period we are seeing well thought-out proportions in furniture and building – they are mathematically calculated and aesthetically pleasing. This is a constant element from Egypt until this period and we will see it again and again in the future.

Let’s talk a little about a building – the Hagia Sophia. This is the most significant architectural accomplishment during the Byzantine period. It's most visible and iconic element is the great dome ceiling. It contains two floors centered on a giant nave. The images below show the church as it may have looked when it was originally constructed.

After the fall of the Byzantine empire to the Ottoman empire in 1453, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. When the conversion occurred the altar, bells, and iconostasis were removed and the minarets that you see today were added. The building is now used as a museum and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul, Turkey.

http://johncavacas.com/blog/2012/10/08/time-magazine-feature-hagia-sophia-interior-ayasofya-istanbul/

Influence on Modern Design

As far as a modern influence on design, the Byzantine era can still be seen today. I think that rich, beautiful jewel tones and gold gilt really evoke this era.