Atomic Depth

Atomic depth uses a detailed element or material to generate or provide depth. Designers use the detail within the piece to develop details outside it. This is done by carrying elements of detail, such as contours, from the element to the surrounding environment through some form of play or pattern, including mirroring, expansion, contraction, continuation, and warping.

Using a particular material can develop depth based on the properties of the material, and the form it requires to handle the role it is given. Thus, by choosing marble, the designer is able to assume certain things about the shape of resultant elements, shapes that are likely different than the would be, had the designer chosen steel or glass.

Using atomic depth when elements have no connection to each other will normally result in designs that are perceived as incoherent. Designers can eliminate this by developing patterns that govern the displacement of detailed and simple elements.

Classical orders

Wallpaper, mosaics, surface coverings

Cameos, paintings

rectilinear tiles

space-grids

bookcases

statuary

log houses