The human brain naturally loves curves. Now that we are spending more time indoors during the pandemic it is likely that curved walls in interior spaces will make a comeback.
Why do we love curves?
It has been scientifically proven that the human brain loves curves. In a 2013 neuroarchitectural study, it was found that participants were more likely to judge spaces as beautiful if they were curvilinear rather than rectilinear. The most likely explanation for our love of all things curvaceous is that they remind us of the beauty of nature. Sydney architect Tony Owen told the Financial Review in a 2014 article that curves derive their inspiration from the efficiency of design in nature. “They also relate to the human body, the feminine form. It’s why iPhones, glasses and cars have curves; we instinctively love curvy things," he said. Curves also add a sense of movement to a structure.
Are curves hard to achieve?
Despite their beauty, architects and building designers are often wary of using curved walls and other surfaces. The perception is that it can be difficult to plan them into the design, challenging for the contractor and add to the costs. Most building materials and elements are hard and inflexible and come standard with straight lines and dimensions. Successfully achieving curves with these materials requires skill and know-how. Of course, other materials (like plasterboard), are easier to curve.
Curving plasterboard
Plasterboard provides an easier option for creating beautiful curves in internal spaces. With careful installation and proper framing methods, even tightly curved walls and ceilings can be achieved. Most plasterboard can be curved to an extent. For curved finishes, plasterboard can be used in conjunction with Siniat Track Flexible – a complete solution for creating curved framing of walls, partitions, bulkheads, archways and columns.
Where really tight curves are required, Siniat CurveShield can be used. CurveShield is an internal wall and ceiling lining suitable for residential and commercial applications. It is 6.5 mm thick and perfect for applications where the radius is less than 900 mm and as small as 250 mm, although much tighter curves can be achieved in the hands of an experienced tradesperson.
When tight curves need to be achieved, Siniat recommends using a template. Move it into the wall once the board has taken shape. Curve the board slowly, and remember that it is easier to curve plasterboard across the width (although this is counter intuitive). Hot and humid conditions are ideal for curving plasterboard. In cold, low-humidity conditions or if very tight curves are required, prepare the plasterboard by applying a small amount of water to the plasterboard surface that will be in compression.
For more advice on curving plasterboard, download the CurveShield technical data sheet.
