The Golden Proportion
Creating your new custom rug can be overwhelming as there are so many options to consider. Your major considerations can be distilled down to three areas – rug weave, border, and size – and if you consider each of these areas separately then your decision will become much easier.
In this article we will share a trick we often use to size a new rug so that its proportions are aesthetically pleasing.
The Golden Proportion
Commonly referred to as phi (pronounce fee),
the Golden Proportion was discovered by the Greeks and used in architectural masterpieces,
such as the Greek Parthenon at Athens shown at left, in the great pyramids built by the Egyptians, and in later architectural works such as Notre Dame.
There is also some speculation that
it was also used by the magnificent artists, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo in the masterpieces
that they created, such as the Mona Lisa at right.
Closely mimicking nature’s design, the Golden Proportion can be used to create the curve of a seashell or to describe the proportions of the human face -and using the Golden Proportion to determine the size and shape of your area rug establishes the most balanced and pleasing dimensions.
So what is the Golden Proportion?
Simply put it is a ratio of approximately 1.618 to 1. This common proportion creates a sense of
harmony and balance. Have you ever seen something that you really liked the look of, but you couldn’t quite figure out why? Most likely
you were looking at something that was following the Golden Proportion, which is naturally aesthetically pleasing! Sisal rugs, with their
natural fibers, are especially conducive to establishing this harmony.
A 10’ by 16’-2” rug is an example of a naturally balanced proportion using the Golden Proportion. You can use Phi in this manner to
determine the proportion of a custom sized rug, and you can also see its use in common standard area rugs. 5’ x 8’ rugs are close to perfect when it
comes to phi dimensions at 1.6 to 1, while 4’ x 6’ and 6’ x 9’ rugs are close approximations, at 1.5 to 1.
Sisal and other natural fiber rugs work well with most decors offering natural hues and interesting textures that are not overwhelming to other design elements. Ultimately, though, your design project will be a reflection of your taste. Take time, and consider your possibilities.
Remember the Golden Proportion when deciding on rug proportions, and then you’ll just have worry about your options for weaves and borders.
We don’t have a golden rule for those, but we are here to help you. We’ll send you samples of both our natural fiber weaves and our binding
collections, and answer any questions you might have.
We’re here when you have questions, and are always happy to help –so please
feel free to use us as a resource.
This article is the sole property of Coastal Style, copyright 2008. No one may reprint this article without written permission from Coastal Style. Please contact us via email if you would like us to consider a request to reprint.
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Rug: 12' by 9' Madagascar Raven with Soft Cotton Twill border in Inkberry applied at 3" on face with hand-sewn mitered corners
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