22 November 2022

the Golden Ratio

Published by Franco Solari
22 November 2022
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WHAT IS THE GOLDEN RATIO?

the golden ratio is also known as the divine proportion; the golden ratio, the golden section, proporción áurea, among other denominations.

 

basically, it is a ratio based on the number Phi (φ) = 1.618 that can be used to create aesthetically harmonious compositions. this special number is obtained by dividing a fragment into two parts, so that the larger part divided by the smaller part, also be equal to the total length divided by the largest part.

 

FIBONACCI SEQUENCE:

the golden section has a direct relationship with the Fibonacci sequence (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55…), because if we divide each number of the sequence by its predecessor each time we will go getting closer to 1,618 (the golden ratio).

 

THE GOLDEN SPIRAL:

the golden spiral is a grid that we can create based on the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio and it will serve as a basis for our creations to have a certain harmony. it is easier to see how it is assembled than to explain it:

 

WHERE CAN WE FIND THE GOLDEN RATIOS?

in many elements of nature, in objects, in the human body, in space, in architecture, in art, in music, in photography: and of course, in graphic design.

 

TYPOGRAPHY:

the golden number can help us determine what font size we should use in the header and body text harmoniously.

 

WEB DESIGN:

the golden ratios can help us design a visually appealing interface that draw the user’s attention by highlighting what is most important. for example, a page build with a content area (A) to side menu (B) ratio of 1:1.618.

 

LOGO:

if you can’t get your logo design to look completely proportionate, it’s a good idea to turn to golden proportions, to balance spaces and shapes:

 

GOLD LINE SPACING:

to create a line spacing provided the golden number once again can be of great help, all we have to do is multiply the font size by 1.618.

 

in this blog, we use as an example the font size is 12 pts, so the line spacing is deduct from doing 12 * 1.618 = 19.4 pts.