We are often asked about the proportion of component placement in various applications.  For example, how big should a ceiling medallion be in reference to the chandelier, or how large should columns be.   In the photo you can see that the boiserie or moulding has a 1/3rd - 2/3rds ratio.

There are natural proportions that one should adhere to, however like all design projects it is also a matter of application and taste.  Sometimes one looks at a presentation and says...

"I just can't put my finger on what is wrong"

 well this is because the designer has ignored the natural order of 1/3 to 2/3 ratio known as "Phi the Golden Rule". Let's explore the origins of the Phi.   

  PHi (1.618)

 The Ancient Greeks around 300 BC realized that there was a ratio that represented the natural proportions of both humans and art / architecture.  

 In simple terms, it is approximately a 1/3rd to 2/3rds ratio. This calculation is handy in sizing Medallions, dividing walls with wainscoting and Boiserie or dividing columns, cabinetry etc.

Ceiling Medallions were created as fire barriers in the early 1800's when lighting was either oil, gas, or candle power.  To avoid fires they were made of non combustible plaster.  As a design precedent they are always larger than the lighting fixture.  If they are the same size as the light fixture they simply look wrong and this effect is amplified the higher the ceiling

  Here is a simple calculation to guide you 

  multiple widest part of the chandelier  by 38.2 % 

  Sizing is based on the Golden Rule called PHi

  This is the ratio calculation PHi (1.618) 

  Here is a simple example calculation to consider

  1- (.618) = (.382)  ie 38.2%

  This keeps within the Golden Rule of Phi

  18" chandelier (widest point) x 1.38 = a 25 inch medallion

  No rules rule so select 29", 25" or what ever matches your design

  Always remember that when you view the medallion mounted on the

  ceiling it will appear much smaller from your perspective at a lower level

  By selecting one that uses the  golden rule calculation, it will appear to

  be the right size with the correct visual distortion with higher ceilings

  MartinRichardsDesign

 Medallion and

 Expansion Ring

  Expansion Rings

  To enlarge an existing ceiling medallion or add to a new one,

  simply add a ceiling expansion ring to achieve the PHi ratio.

  Link to Expansion Rings

  Learn more click here=>

   coming soon

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