The golden ratio is a mathematical concept that’s used commonly in woodworking. When applied correctly, the golden ratio affects not just the viability of the finished piece, but the aesthetic quality too. Learn what the golden ratio means in woodworking and why it assures a high-quality design every time.

What is the Golden Ratio? 

The concept of the golden ratio is commonly used in mathematics, fine arts, nature, design including engineering and architecture.  Expressed in numeric form, it’s roughly 1.618.   Things that exhibit the golden ratio are pleasing to the eye thus it is sometimes referred to as the perfect number.

The golden ratio is a way of expressing proportion between long and short sides of an object, like a rectangle. The short sides of the rectangle have a value of one, and the long sides have a value of 1.618 to express the golden ratio. This ratio can be scaled up or down in any multiple, so long as the proportion does not change.

While there’s nothing seemingly magical about the number, the beauty arises when things are constructed in proportions of 1:1.618.

For instance, the Great Pyramids at Giza conform to the golden ratio, as does the Parthenon in Athens. Since the sculptor who carved the columns at the Parthenon used the golden ratio in much of his work, it’s named Phi in his honor.

Great art uses the golden ratio to position the most interesting parts of the painting, sculpture or other work of art at the points where the sides of the rectangle come together. Esteemed artworks that were created using the golden ratio include the Mona Lisa.

In the human form, the navel divides the body in half at the golden ratio. There are many more examples we could give. All you need to know is that objects created using this ratio look better than objects created using other proportions.

Why is the Golden Ratio Important in Woodworking? 

Now that you understand a bit about the golden ratio, what does it mean for woodworking?

Applying the golden ratio to custom woodwork will ensure the finished piece will naturally look pleasing. To work with a concrete example, let’s take a custom vanity. We will use the golden ratio to determine the ideal height and width of the vanity as well as the height, width, and placement of drawers. The golden ratio comes into play again when determining where to place the drawer pulls. By applying this formula, we can build any size vanity in any style you like and deliver a great result.

Custom Bathrooms & Vanities

The golden ratio gives us a great guide for creating the right piece. Before we apply it, we’ll make sure the finished piece will be of a practical size and fit in your space. By balancing our expertise in woodworking with this principle, we deliver lasting value in a great finished piece.

If you need custom woodworking in the Hudson Valley, call Kehoe Kustom. We’ve got experience with everything from custom cabinets and built-ins to sunrooms and pergolas. Contact us with a description of your needs and we’ll discuss how we can help.