#41 Joachim Tantau: Sacred Geometry, Beauty, and the Universal Language of Nature
In this episode, I sit down with Joachim Tantau–a cabinetmaker, artist, teacher, and occasional architect to explore the quiet power of sacred geometry. Joachim works at the intersection of tradition, craftsmanship, and cosmic math. His approach to design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about uncovering the fundamental order embedded in nature, music, architecture, and even the movements of planets.
We talk about how flowers, planets, and buildings all share hidden proportional systems; why the Golden Ratio keeps showing up in history and design; and how ancient builders created structures more efficient-and more awe-inspiring-than much of what we build today. We also dig into why beauty is not just a luxury, but a basic human need.
If you’ve ever felt like modern buildings don’t quite “speak” to you, this might explain why.
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00:00 The Role of Sacred Geometry in Design
03:12 Exploring Sacred Geometry
08:30 Understanding Sacred Geometry
13:27 The Intersection of Geometry and Music
17:03 Sacred Geometry in Architecture
27:16 The Importance of Beauty in Design
39:01 Geometry in Modern Engineering
48:53 Rediscovering Wonder in the Modern World
54:09 The Distinction Between Pleasure and Enjoyment
01:00:17 Connecting Architecture with Nature and Geometry
01:06:04 Ancient Architecture and Cosmic Proportions
01:11:10 Teaching Sacred Geometry in Design
01:17:26 Practical Applications of Sacred Geometry in Architecture
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The Hidden Geometry of Flowers: Living Rhythms, Form and Number by Keith Critchlow: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12293965-the-hidden-geometry-of-flowers
The Dimensions of Paradise: Sacred Geometry, Ancient Science, and the Heavenly Order on Earth by John Michell : https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1443804.The_Dimensions_of_Paradise
Sacred Art in East and West by Titus Burckhardt: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/371784.Sacred_Art_in_East_and_West_1st_Edition
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Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!
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