Inspired by nature
The hexagonal shape of the hive's connecting cells give maximum strength in minimum space.
We all have a tendency to admire both the beauty and practical nature of symmetrical patterns.
We think a lot about patterns when we are decorating. What should I choose for my drapes or comforter? Will it work having different patterns competing with each other in one room? How about taking one design and repeating it in a variation of sizes and colors? We are inspired by all the glorious patterns in nature, and what may appear as a beautiful but chaotic amalgamation of shapes, does break down into what we see as a pleasing order. When we produce a design, we are copying from nature’s rich tapestry. All the shapes – geometric to fluid to rambling – are found in the natural world. It’s how an individual re-creates and transforms patterns – whether with color variants, for example, or line widths – that the amazing sense of variation appears.
In Philip Ball’s book “Patterns in Nature,” University of Chicago Press, he explains that there are regularities running through the natural world, from the hexagons of a honeycomb to the spirals of a sea shell and the branching veins of a leaf. Ball approaches the phenomenon of patterns through the logical constructs of physics and mathematics in such a way that a non-scientific mind can understand. He sets out to show how nature makes the patterns that we love, copy and augment. By breaking down patterns into categories, we are shown how and why similar designs appear in insects, animals, mineral formations, the human body and so on. Thus, the book is divided into chapters that explore symmetry, fractal geometry, spirals, flow and chaos, bubbles and foam and more.
“Bilateral symmetry seems almost to be the default shape for animals. Insects, fish, mammals and birds all share this attribute,” says Ball. We are drawn to repeat patterns and mirror images such as the markings on a butterfly, the limbs and other features of the human form. It connotes order and balance, which is a happy state for us to be in. How symmetry is created and repeated in the natural world is explained scientifically in this book. For designers and decorators, it is of interest to understand how designs build on themselves. The bees construct honeycombs using wax they produce, building walls in a hexagonal shape, a repeat pattern that is the best use of limited space. Strength evolves from the six-sided cells that all touch each other. We use this pattern in architecture and in paper products, and replicate it in art.
“Fractal geometry is the geometry of nature,” says Ball. Here, a pattern repeats itself in different size scales. The branches of a tree taken separately look like a miniature version of the whole tree. The scale diminishes as the branches grow and leaves form. The veins in the leaves continue this pattern. Designers and artists are aware of the growth of patterns and use their talents to reproduce similar fractal shapes with fabric weaves, paint and other materials.
In the 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci wrestled with the task of capturing the flow of water on canvas. He discovered that what appeared to be chaos was actually a mix of order and disorder. Does understanding the basic physics enhance our enjoyment of the patterns of the rush of water, or the swirl of a snail, or the grandiose formulation of mountains? Hundreds of stunning magnified photographs and insightful text in “Patterns of Nature” will enrich the way you see and experience the world around you. And will help you develop a stronger sense of appreciation for design in decorating.
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