Time Out

Have you ever seen a terrible twos tantrum?  This design duplication approach may stultify and stupefy your interiors.  Classicism is all about balance, but when is two too many?  When does double dipping doom your domicile?  Sure, it seems to simplify the project in filling the space, but what would you say at the end of a long day?  Are you going to have a temper tantrum?

Classic example of the terrible twos - 

Yes, you are confused and overwhelmed about what to do with the space. But you need checks and balances.  You need to channel your energies in an orderly and civilized direction.  But disciplining the decor only by doubling the digits?  Might cause a total melt-down.  

More twosies in tandem

It is imperative to remain calm and perhaps take something away. A time out might be in order.  Restraint is a key word. Don't do two much! You don't want the Design Police on your doorstep! Perhaps better to foster the inevitable freedom and independence that your budding creation requires.

Atrium at Las Tejas, a house in Santa Barbara, California 

John Saladino

Saladino is a master of asymmetry with classical references.  Do you see here how the negative spaces are equally as important as the positive spaces? Everything is carefully considered in terms of its proportions.  There is a mathematical genius at play here and the result is beautiful.

Apartment in New York

Vicente Wolf

Wolf demonstrates an understanding of how it all adds up by multiplication of a good thing. He's got onesies, twosies, and threesies, etc. going on here. And by varying the subtleties of texture in your multiples, you can power your interior with a knock out punch!

Dining room

Clodagh

How much do you duplicate shapes?  How do you balance the quantity of color?  Is there a ratio rule?  I think that for artists, it is more intuitive than learned.  Clodagh utilizes the ancient principles of feng shui in her designs as a guide to perfect aesthetics.

Kitchen and dining area, 2005

Terry Hunziker

The beauty is in the balance. This design could likely be dissected into never-ending sections of a golden rectangle.

Golden Rectangle
The Parthenon - Temple dedicated to the goddess Athena

Guest house in Dallas, Texas

Andree Putman

This design demonstrates higher mathematics and physics. Putman carves through the space by architect Bill Booziotis fearlessly demonstrating what's what. Although devoid of architectural features of classical antiquity such as columns and capitals, the design emphasis is all about geometry. I think the Greeks and Romans would feel right at home!

Fibonacci spiral

Onesies, twosies, and threesies, etc. in perfect harmony.  No more tantrums!