Monday, July 9, 2012

Design Tip: Remember the Golden Ratio (aka Golden Mean)!

Patterns are mathematical, and they appear everywhere in nature.   While definitely an Art, architecture and Interior design uses a lot of Math and Science.  The Greeks called it "Phi" (pronounced "fee"), and they used it in designing the Parthenon, and the Egyptians in designing the pyramids.  It is a mathematical formula for creating proportion between objects.

Consider an 8' sofa, and a 5' coffee table.  Assuming a compatible style and color, the two work for the eye because they follow the "phi formula", which is:  1 to 1.61803399

A great shape for a table in that same ratio, would be as follows:
5 x 1.61803399 = 8.06

Here is the ratio for a smaller, 7' sofa:
7 / 1.61803399 = 4.33

This guideline will help you design a room in which everything seems to fit.  

Keep Smilin'!


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