4.1 Concept

4.1.1 Yin and Yang

The concept for the current design proposal is derived and based on the theories behind the yin and yang which will also form part of the chapter about Feng shui design.

According to () the yin and yang is synonymous with the circumference, which is equated with circular movement. () continues to describe the circle or disc to be closely related to or emphasised as an emblem of the sun. The circle also represents heaven and perfection, sometimes even eternity.

Yang, the white circle, depicting heaven; refers to the masculine principle whereas yin, the black circle portrays earth; referring to the feminine principle. The interaction between the two can be defined as implicit in dualism which can also be described as binary.  (Cirlot, 2002, 47)

As described by (Cirlot, 2002, 57) the two colours of the yin and yang are divided by a sigmoid line across the diameter; a sigmoid line is the curved line that crosses through the circle horizontally. The white circle has a black spot, and the black circle has a white spot, which signifies that one cannot exist without the other, that in everything masculine exists something feminine, and vice versa.  (Cirlot, 2002,25)

(Cirlot, 2002,25) explains that the sigmoid line also refers to the symbol of movement, as well as the idea of rotation. The yin and yang symbol can also be related to a symbol of binary. The binary symbol is emphasized through the top black and bottom white of the yin and yang, the inversion imparts a sense of cyclical movement.  (Cirlot, 2002, 57) The black and white of the yin and yang constrained by the circle also signifies stability. Movement can be incorporated within the design according to a healing journey, and pathways to growth and rejuvenation. Each pathway within the space leads one back out of the space again, emphasizes on the cyclical progression through the space. This movement through space can also be related to the intimacy gradient. Which is described by…..? as the gradient to which intimacy of a certain space can be measured. Some spaces need to be more private than others, for example changing rooms and the sauna would be a space that is regarded to be more private and intimate, especially considering gender separation and modesty.

Cirlot, (2002,71) relates to pathways to the concept of cross-roads, which is a mother symbol. Where the roads cross and enter into one another it can be a symbol for the union of opposites, which in turn relates back to the yin and yang.

(Cirlot, 2002) describes a healing journey as a spiritual perspective and should never be just a passage through space but rather an expression of the urgent desire for discovery. Cirlot, (2002,47) continues to designate that travelling may also be related to the complete cycle of the year, as does the yin and yang, the white half symbolises the first six months of the year, whereas the black symbolises the seconds six months of the year. There lies a mystery about duality which is the root of all action that establishes itself in opposing forces whether spatial, physical or spiritual.  (Cirlot, 2002,25)