Two quantities are in the golden ratio if their ratio is the same as the ratio of their sum to the larger two quantities.
This ratio can be found throughout history in art, architecture, and even nature. The Great Pyramid of Giza, The Parthenon, and Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Vitruvian Man all illustrate the golden ratio. Whether this ratio is a subconscious preference or a beloved design tradition has yet to be proven. There’s no question that the golden ratio still influences design today; however, designers should not design with the golden ratio as a priority. Instead, designers should only consider the golden ratio if it doesn’t compromise other, more critical, aspects of the design.
Examples of the Golden Ratio:
Reference:
Lidwell, W., Holden, K., & Butler, J. (n.d.). Universal Principles of Design. Rockport.
Image Sources:
https://medium.com/i-math/what-is-the-golden-ratio-d3cc17c
https://www.topsimages.com/images/parthenon-golden-ratio-f6.html
Turns out, there is an aloe plant, Aloe polyphylla, or “spiral aloe” that displays the golden ratio in nature! Picture here: https://media.mnn.com/assets/images/2015/07/golden-ratio-aloe.jpg.653x0_q80_crop-smart.jpg
For example(s) of the golden ratio, I wanted to share a scene from one of my favorite videos as a child: Donald in Mathemagic Land. Here is the segment that explores the golden ratio in architecture and nature: https://youtu.be/U_ZHsk0-eF0?t=432
Lisa, thanks for making a post on the golden ratio! As someone who majored in math in my undergrad days, it tickled my fancy.
You mention designers should prioritize other critical aspects of design ahead of the golden ratio. Could you spell out a few of those critical aspects?
I’m also curious if you think it’s ever appropriate for a designer to prioritize the golden ratio in design. In what contexts do you think the golden ratio would be a particularly effective design tool? What outcomes might it help produce?
Thanks for choosing this one!
Hi Ken,
The golden ratio is a fascinating principle to me as well. I remember it coming up time and again in my art history lectures in regards to art and architecture.
As far as prioritizing other critical aspects of design ahead of the golden ratio, I was referring to things such as legibility and usability. The golden ratio is a great tool for creating an aesthetically pleasing piece, but we shouldn’t sacrifice legibility to utilize the ratio. It’s up to the designer to determine if using the golden ratio is appropriate, and as always, decide if it adds to or detracts from the overall design.
Thanks for commenting on this!