One of the most amazing things I have found in life is the idea that there may be a unifying form or spatial template that defines all life forms. Many believe that this “divine ratio” forms the basis for everything from the shape of simple seeds to proportions in chemical compounds and ultimately, the geometry of the galaxy. Closer to my understanding and grasp is the thought that this shape that has become known as ‘The Golden Mean’, may be a starting point and foundation for landscape architecture and in turn, garden design. I have relied on it many times to conceptualize early shapes and spaces as a design is developed for a client.
This unique shape can be understood by drawing a square, then forming the radius of a circle from the midpoint of the edge. This then can be viewed as a rectangle, roughly 1 to 1.6 in ratio. In context of microclimate, view aspect and topography, I think that it can inspire a patio form, the location of an outbuilding, a fence line or the arc of a wall. The discussion of a Golden Mean inspires thought in some and controversy to others. But, for those that look closely, there is an oft-repeated and almost magical geometry to The Golden Mean.
This universal ratio and form can be found in the spatial arrangement of branches along the stem of plants, the chambers of a nautilus or a bee’s honeycomb. In architecture, it has been the basis for historic works from the Parthenon to the Pyramids, so why not your plant layout or patio?
(Image by Thomas Fuchs)
