Early Gothic structures did not last long, because of the weight of the stone.  Once architects found ways to distribute the weight evenly, their buildings became much more stable.  At the High end of the Gothic Era  more decorations were added to their structures, like more complex stained glass windows, gargoyles, smaller pillars, and taller structures.  In the Late Gothic Era in France it became even more flamboyant.  The Gothic style died out during the Renaissance, but would later influence Europe and the USA.