The Golden Ratio, also known as the Golden Number, Golden Proportion or Divine Proportion, is a specific ratio of two quantities (also known as a «proportion»). The calculated number is represented by the Greek letter «Phi» and corresponds approximately to the decimal value 1.618.

Origin

Its roots lie in ancient times, including in Euclid (around 300 BC), whose «Elements» already contain references to this proportion; later, other thinkers and artists such as Leonardo da Vinci studied the Golden Ratio and contributed to its popularization.

  • Euclid (c. 300 BC). Elements.
  • Da Vinci, L. (c. 1500). Various sketches and treatises on proportion.

Application in UX and UI design

Many people believe that the aesthetic effect of the Golden Ratio is due to its prevalence in nature. This proportion can be perceived in many organic forms, especially in those that undergo a growth process. The proportions of a nautilus shell, for example, remain unchanged throughout its life cycle. The shapes and arrangements of many leaves and seeds also correspond roughly to the Golden Ratio. This applies, for example, to the spiral arrangement of the inflorescences of the sunflower, but also to many other flowers and seed heads.

Some artists and designers have consciously aligned their works with the Golden Ratio. In the mid-20th century, the famous architect Le Corbusier developed a theory of proportions based on the Golden Ratio, which was fundamental to many of his later architectural designs.

In UX and UI design, the Golden Ratio can be used to structure layouts harmoniously and to create specific focal points. Designers often use grid lines based on the golden ratio to determine column divisions, image compositions or distances, for example, in such a way that they create an aesthetically pleasing overall picture. The emphasis on balanced proportions helps users to orient themselves intuitively and makes the design appear more pleasant.

However, it should be noted that the Golden Ratio is not understood as a rigid dogma, since different platforms, end devices and cultural habits also influence visual perception. Some critics also consider the effect of the Golden Ratio to be overrated and see it as just one of many possible principles of harmony.

There are many practical examples of its use in modern web design, for example when it comes to determining the proportions of a hero area, teasers or other areas. If these are designed according to the proportions of the Golden Ratio, many people intuitively perceive these elements as harmonious.

Impact on the User Experience

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Further information