Geometric proportions: The underlying structure of design process for Islamic geometric patterns

Abstract

This paper discusses geometric proportions which serve as a design tool, especially for Islamic pattern design. The key role of geometry in Islamic patterns is discussed with relation to proportions which act as the underlying structure of the design process. Evaluations based on spatial structure and esthetic criteria are integrated into the conceptual phase of the design process. Proportions serve two objectives; firstly, in pattern design, proportions are strongly linked to geometry, which can be viewed as a self-guiding method of esthetically proven design. Secondly, geometric proportions regulate primarily the order of patterns; while at the same time they mediate between the two poles of order and diversity as well as among different esthetic levels. This paper analyzes geometric principles and design features of traditional Islamic patterns, involving geometric proportion analysis. It also describes the syntheses of Islamic patterns from the perspectives of Islamic cosmology, philosophy and metaphysics of geometry, which can be seen as following a pre-established principle of geometric and proportional design with high accuracy and great precision. Furthermore, the underlying relationship between cosmology and geometry is manifested in Islamic patterns where geometry acts as the vocabulary underpinning the pattern language. These findings support the argument that geometry was independently discovered and applied by Islamic culture as a universal language, constituting one of the most important multicultural symbols in design.

Keywords

Geometry / Proportions / Islamic patterns

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2014 This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.