hree dimensional shape and space is the basis of architecture and most designed objects. There are added design considerations in that the object will be experienced from more than one side. In the case of architecture, the design of the shape is almost secondary to the design of the space it contains, since the end use mainly involves the space which will be occupied. In sculpture, too, the space defined by the shape of the sculpture may be an important aspect of the total design.
Other designed objects such as furniture, tools, and appliances must be conceived in relation to function and, often, the contours of the human body that will use the object. Fashion designers face special problems of engineering and spatial thinking, in that the problem is to translate a two dimensional material (cloth) into a three dimensional form (body-shaped garment)-- a unique and complex problem in topographical engineering.
Three dimensional shape has an expressive vocabulary similar to that of line This obviously follows, since line is always implied by the contours of shapes. For example, rectilinear shapes suggest stability.
Angular shapes placed diagonally in relation to gravity suggest instability.
Shapes that exhibit softly curving surfaces suggest quiet, comfort, and sensuality.