ALERT, TREND!
In our incessant search for new trends in the office interior design, we have discovered a new trend: volumes inspired by origami or origami. Perhaps the rounded shapes in furniture, arches, niches and cavities, which have been so popular and used to the point of exhaustion, are on their way out (slowly) and now creative minds are looking for new ways aesthetics in their designs.
A little bit of history
El origami It is a Japanese term that means “folding paper” and has its corresponding term in Spanish: origami, from Latin. papyrus y flexus. The origin, however, is Chinese, as they were the inventors of paper, and it is believed that from here it passed to Japan in the 6th century AD, fully integrating into Japanese tradition. The truth is that its expansion is related to the democratization of the use of paper, which was cheaper and easier to handle than papyrus. When it became popular in Japan, the practice of origami spread significantly, whose first book dates from 1797, that is, relatively recently in the timeline.
It reaches Europe through the silk Road, around the 13th century, and also by the Arab invasions, who had learned how to make paper from the Chinese. However, it was a residual and unknown practice.
modern origami
In the 19th century, Japan began trade relations with the United States and the entire world, after centuries of isolation. This cultural and social opening revolutionized classic origami, giving way to modern origami. In classic origami the paper was cut, glued and painted; However, in current origami the use of scissors It is prohibited, it should not be used painting either glue. Pure form is achieved only by creased and there should be no other configuration element other than the material with its weight and color. Thus, Japanese masters created new standards for modern origami.
A curious note: in Spain was nothing less than Miguel de Unamuno who promoted origami in the 1930s, making “paper bowties” to whom he dedicated a treatise about the “cocology”, term devised by Unamuno himself that derives from 'cocotte' which means 'hen' or 'bow tie' in French. Furthermore, Miguel de Unamuno published several folding books, including the essay “Love and Pedagogy”, where he talks about origami in the appendix.
Origami applications
But what does the origami What fascinates us? Origami is not only the result of extraordinary manual skill of its creators, but also provides knowledge geometric and mathematical that derive from the study of their forms. In recent times, the incorporation of computational mathematics has given rise to much more complex designs. Among the contributions to geometry, the theorems and axioms of origami and the introduction of computer programs stand out. optimization of paper use.
Pedagogical and psychological implications
From the psychological point of view, the origami It is a great help in education and formation, since it brings great benefits to those who exercise it, among them:
– Develops the manual dexterity, accuracy and precision, requiring attention and concentration in the elaboration of figures.
– Create spaces for personal motivation to develop creativity and measure the degree of coordination between the real and the abstract.
– Encourages the student to be able to create their own models.
– Provides moments of recreation and distraction.
- Strengthens the Self esteem through the making of their own creations.
The jump of paper
For some time now, origami shapes have jumped out of the 2D to 3D paper. Architects and interior designers are inspired by these paper figures to create constructions that generate visual impact in the viewer. But there is even more, we are already talking about the “origamitexture” or how the structural engineering Study the complex origami figures to extrapolate and resize them into buildings, bridges, etc.
La robotics, mathematics, the technology and biology They already use origami in the design of products, solutions and answers to unknowns, especially because it allows them rationalize their manufacturing processes. The print in 3D has come to give a new impetus to the analysis and use of origami forms. In fact, there is a computer program (software) called Origamizer, where you can apply this algorithm and make your own origami.
Uses of origami shapes
At the design and architecture, origami is integrated as a formal and spatial concept, projecting complex shapes created from angles that are pronounced on a single surface. Origami architecture allows the use of more environmentally friendly materials, such as wood panels, recycled cardboard and other plant-based compounds. These materials, in addition to being conducive to this type of patterns due to their lightness and flexibility, are also biodegradable.
Also, folded shapes represent a great advantage for the sustainability, since structures with these patterns are more adaptable to any surface and, due to their falls, easier to condition for light and temperature control. Thanks to your versatility, this design is extremely useful and attractive for both the construction of minimalist structures, such as bus stops and small parks, as well as for futuristic-looking homes, large auditoriums, pavilions, museums and even temples.
In conclusion, the origami shape not only fulfills an aesthetic function, but also has very varied applications in different areas and disciplines: architecture, fashion design, technology, art, philosophy, pedagogy, psychology, physics, among others. Ahhh, and if you want to know more, November 11th marks the International Origami Day.
