Decorative Features Research Articles

Ornamental Flora in Landscaped Urban Areas: The Case of the University of San Pedro (South-West of Côte d’Ivoire)

In a context where urban green spaces play a crucial role in improving quality of life and ecological sustainability, this study focuses on the ornamental flora of the University of San Pedro (USP), located in the south-west of Côte d'Ivoire. The aim is to characterise this flora and analyse the typology of the landscaped green spaces, reflecting the university's commitment to a sustainable and aesthetic environment. The methodology adopted was based on an itinerant survey of all the university's green spaces, enabling ornamental species to be identified and listed. The data collected was analysed in terms of floristic composition, biological and morphological types, geographical distribution and ornamental uses, using recognised botanical references. The survey identified 52 ornamental species in 48 genera and 31 families, with the Apocynaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Araceae families predominating. Most of the flora is made up of introduced species (86%), mainly of Asian origin, while local species are poorly represented. Shrubs and bushes dominate, with a variety of decorative characteristics such as foliage, flowers and habit. In addition, a near-threatened species on the IUCN red list has been identified, underlining the ecological importance of these areas. These results show the richness and diversity of USP's flora, while highlighting the need to make greater use of indigenous species. The study also highlights the role of university landscaping in promoting biodiversity and creating sustainable, aesthetically pleasing spaces in urban environments.

An Unpublished Egyptian Coffin of the Third Intermediate Period in the Antiquities Museum of Trieste

This article examines an ancient Egyptian coffin that was donated in 1867 to the Natural History Museum of Trieste and then moved to the Trieste Antiquities Museum in 2004. The coffin is a type dating to the Third Intermediate Period and belonged to an anonymous priestess. It is characterised by rather careless decoration and by extremely repetitive inscriptions that can hardly find parallels in the vast panorama of coffin production of the period. Its unique feature, though, is the large mummiform figure depicted on the bottom of the coffin box. The technical, decorative, and textual features hint at this coffin being part of a sort of ‘ready-made’ production by a Theban workshop. [Formula: see text]

Evaluation of alternative joining methods in softshell fabric types

Parameters such as high performance, durability and comfort are very important in protective and sports clothing produced to increase the technical or functional properties of clothing products, as well as aesthetic and decorative features. Fabrics that provide comfort to the user by regulating body temperature, protect against harsh weather conditions, and are waterproof and windproof, as well as breathable, are used for these purposes. One of the most important fabrics with these features is the fabric called ‘softshell’. Softshell is a fabric specially created to release moisture and regulate body temperature. Therefore, the outer layer of the softshell is not waterproof, but water-repellent, ensuring that it remains dry and protective while a person is wearing it. Creating a three-dimensional product from a two-dimensional fabric with these features is achieved through the sewing process. As traditional methods are used in the sewing process, an alternative joining method called ‘ultrasonic joining’ can also be used. While alternative joining methods provide joining without sewing thread, these methods do not create holes in the fabric surfaces since there is no sewing needle. Joining processes with thermal, laser and ultrasound energy are based on the principle of melting, fusing and cooling the joined surfaces. In this study, it was aimed to analyze the change in the physical properties of different softshell fabrics as a result of joining them with classical and innovative sewing/joining methods. In this context, lockstitch, lockstitch & tape welding, ultrasonic welding, and ultrasonic welding & tape welding are applied to the softshell, ripstop softshell and Lycra softshell fabrics used in the market. The thickness, air permeability, seam strength and elongation at break properties of the bonded fabrics were examined. Within the scope of this study, obtaining successful results in softshell fabric types, which is one of the bulky fabrics, contributes to the idea that the usage area of ultrasonic welding will expand day by day.

Crafting Superior Dress Shoes

This study explores the utilization of African ostrich leg skins, sourced from South Africa, in the production of high-quality leather footwear in Ethiopia. It begins with a thorough analysis of the raw materials, particularly their fat and protein contents, while also evaluating the most effective tanning methods. The research focuses on the impact of chrome and semi-chrome tanning on the leather’s physical and structural qualities, highlighting its unique texture and durability. Through comprehensive trials conducted in Ethiopia, the study examines the leather’s thermal stability, fiber structure, and performance metrics. The results reveal that chrome tanning is better suited for producing footwear, as it enhances leather strength and yields leather with minimal stretch, making it ideal for crafting durable upper shoe components. On the other hand, semi-chrome tanning, as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy, yields softer leather with better fiber separation, suitable for luxury leather bags’ decorative features. The findings demonstrate that specialized tanning techniques can enhance both the aesthetic and functional attributes of ostrich leg leather, promoting its inclusion in high-end leather products. This approach not only broadens the variety of materials for the Ethiopian leather industry but also supports economic growth and market expansion through sustainable practices and product innovation.

Su Furniture of the Ming Dynasty in the History of Chinese Furniture Art. Characteristics of Furniture in the Jiangsu and Zhejiang Regions

The article considers Su-style furniture in the history of Chinese decorative arts, its design, decorative and stylistic features in the context of the philosophical concepts of the Ming Dynasty.

Landscape organization of the theme square "Vyshyvanka day" in Chernivtsi

Objects of the nature reserve fund, including parks-landscape art landmarks are the subject of protection. Besides scientific, they perform aesthetic, recreational, and educational functions. They are valuable not only as architectural ensembles but also for plants that have remained since the creation of the parks and have a centuries-old history. Such plants are entered into databases and their condition is monitored for a better understanding of the features of their development in modern microclimatic conditions. For research, a plant inventory is carried out, according to which the phytosanitary condition, quantitative, and species structure of plant elements of greened areas is assessed. Individual indicators must comply with the standards specified in the State Building Regulations. Phenological observations give an idea of the decorative features of plants throughout the year and the aesthetic condition of plants under certain environmental conditions. To know the relative age of woody plants, formulas consider the trunk circumference and the empirical coefficient of plants of each species. Analysis of scientific sources of information showed that the square was created in 1871. After the reconstruction in 2023, it has 19 locations, 17 of which involve plant compositions. The main compositional accent is the solitaire Fagus sylvatica L. in the central area of ​​the landscape object, which symbolizes Bukovyna. This is the only location that corresponds to the thematic concept of the square. According to the results of a comparative analysis of the species structure of woody plants, it was found that the removal of Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Hibiscus syriacus L. plants led to a decrease in the number of plants with decorative flowering, and Cotoneaster horisontalis Decne. with decorative fruiting. The removal of Buxus sempervirens L. is natural for Chernivtsi, as a large part of it is affected by Cydalima perspectalis Walker. To improve the artistic and decorative design of the territory of the square during the reconstruction, the addition of Fagus sylvatica L. 'Purpurea', Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea Pendula' plants was carried out. Acer palmatum Thunb. and Paulownia tomentosa Steud. with decorative leaves. To improve the artistic and decorative design of the territory of the square during the reconstruction, the addition of Fagus sylvatica L. 'Purpurea', Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea Pendula', Acer palmatum Thunb and Paulownia tomentosa Steud. with decorative leaves was carried out. As a result of the research, plant species approaching the age limit and requiring more careful care, conservation, and protection measures were identified. The obtained results will be useful for further monitoring and making proposals for improving the landscape organization of the square following its thematic concept and the norms defined by law for individual components of the space of similar objects.

Ecclesiastical Ergonomics? Human Factors in Traditional and Modern Sacred Architecture

Recent innovations in building materials, design methods, and construction techniques have allowed architects to experiment with new and daring architectural forms. While Modernist and Contemporary architecture may be innovative, its effects on human users tend to be mixed. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of traditional and modern styles of ecclesiastical (church) architecture in supporting certain aspects of human psychological and physiological well-being, namely restorative and focusing effects. A literature review was performed to identify spatial, lighting, and decorative design features thought to support these human factors, with a particular focus on the design theories of Biophilia and Prospect-Refuge. These features were compared to design aspects of traditional and modern church architecture. Traditional architectural styles were found to incorporate more features identified as supporting restorative and focusing effects than modern styles. Recommendations were developed for adjustments to church spaces to improve the subjective experience of visitors.

Introduction of varieties of чубушник (Philadelphus L.) selected by N.K. Vekhov in the Stavropol Botanical Garden

To create sustainable and long-lasting landscape gardening, gardeners need a wide range of ornamental plants, among which considerable importance is given to Philadelphus L. For recreational development of territories and enrichment of the assortment of ornamental plants in the zone of insufficient moisture, varieties with good xerothermal characteristics, high decorative qualities and adaptive capabilities are proposed.The biological and decorative features of seven varieties Philadelphus L. in the soil and climatic conditions of the Stavropol upland have been studied. Earlier and later periods of vegetation onset in different years are highlighted. The dates of the beginning and end of flowering have been set. The average duration of flowering was 18–23 days, the maximum was 25 days, the minimum was 16 days. The analysis of habitual indicators is carried out, the characteristic of the crown shape is given. The study of phytoentomological resistance has shown high resistance of these varieties to diseases and pests in local soil and climatic conditions. According to the results of the introduction variety study, seven varieties of Philadelphus L. with high decorative qualities and resistance to a complex of adverse environmental factors were proposed for mass use in decorative gardening in the Stavropol territory.

Historical Study of the Use of Low Seat Dingklik In Java in the Socioeconomic Activities of the Colonial Era (1800-1900)

ABSTRACT Since the 8th century, Indian traders have brought Hindu/Buddhist practices to Java, influencing the culture of sitting low. When furniture came to Indonesia during the colonial era, the Javanese started using low-wooden benches called dingklik for work and informal interactions. Despite having a simple form and being often hidden, dingklik underwent a transformation through socioeconomic activities in Java during the colonial period. Contemporary paintings, photographs, and films were used to analyse dingklik in terms of content, visual elements, and height in socio-economic activity. From an economic perspective, the shape of dingklik was oriented towards mobility so that for carry-on traders, the dingklik had smaller and lighter legs, making it easy to carry. Meanwhile, socially, the form of dingklik was influenced by philosophical symbolism, and for Javanese nobles, it had decorative features similar to royal chairs as symbols of power. This study highlights the shift in the value of traditional Javanese sitting facilities.

Оценка различных форм груши кавказской (P. caucasica Fed.) для селекции на декоративность

Abstract. The article describes the results of studying the morphological features of 93 forms of P. caucasica Fed. collected in various regions of the Caucasus. The research was carried out in the collection gardens score, and samples with lower scores, but having one or more attractive decorative features. The studied samples of the Caucasian pear had valuable decorative qualities to varying degrees: narrow pyramidal crown (index 2.16) – Kasp-69-59; rounded crown (index 0.88) – 67-Chr-249, 67-B-208, Ard-69-18; large flowers – Ter-69-77, 67-Ku-139, 67-BZ-37, B-69-111, 67-BZ-67, B-69-87, Kasp-69-59; abundant flowering – P. caucasica Fed. № 2, P. caucasica Fed. №3, P. caucasica Fed. №6, B-69-88, L-69-98, L-69-101, Shali-69-36; attractive appearance of leaves, absence of fungal diseases – Arg-69-34, 67-B-190, Ur-69-1, 67-Chr-250, B-69- 78; anthocyanin integumentary coloration of fruits – P. caucasica Fed. №4 and №5, B-69-108, Kasp-69-59. Frost resistance of plants was an important feature for the use in ornamental gardening. This property was noted in the samples of P. caucasica Fed. №4, B-69-78, Ard-69-18. Samples B-69-90, B-69-78 had edible sweet fruits. Selected forms of the Caucasian pear retained their decorative properties during the growing season. The forms B69-88, B-69-78, Kasp-69-59, L-69-96, 67-Ku-127 can have the greatest value for breeding in terms of the sum of points and the presence of valuable features. Keywords: the Caucasus, the Caucasian pear, decorativeness, morphology, diversity of features, selection, breeding Financing source: The research was carried out at the expense of a grant from the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution «Maikop State Technological University» «Assessment of various forms of Caucasian pear (P. caucasica Fed.) for breeding for decorative purposes», registration number of the scientific project: NP 8-2024 of the Maikop Experimental Station – a branch of All-Union Research Institute of Plant Breeding (VIR) in 2021-2023s in accordance with modern methods of studying and assessing the decorative properties of research objects. Twenty-two samples were identified, including those with the highest total decorative

Aesthetics of Trademarks with an Asian Flavour

Trademarks should be considered not only as an intellectual property right but also as aesthetic creations influenced by various philosophies. A trademark can thus be understood as a word, a phrase, a symbol, a shape, a configuration or any other device introduced to distinguish the products of individual traders or manufacturers. Trademarks also have an aesthetic dimension. This means that aesthetics of trademarks can be revealed through the letters and morphemes as well as their literary, mythological, and religious associations. Trademarks play a crucial role in some commercial sectors. The aim of this article is therefore to present the aesthetics of trademarks through the lens of East Asian philosophies such as Confucianism and Daoism, as well as Japanese Zen. This analysis brings us to considerations of traditional aesthetic functionality. This means that the brand is the main decorative feature of the product or is the product itself. It can therefore be influenced by different philosophies, and the above cases even confirm this theory.

Selection of Bergenia crassifolia specimens based on a complex of decorative characteristics in the flora of Kazakhstan Altai and their introduction in the Altai Botanical Garden

The purpose of the study is to select Bergenia crassifolia specimens from different eco-geographical habitats in natural populations of the Kazakhstan Altai based on a complex of decorative characteristics and their introduction testing in the Altai Botanical Garden, creating promising forms for inclusion in the landscaping assortment. The growth of B. crassifolia in the Kazakhstan Altai has been established on the mountain ranges of the Southern and Southwestern Altai in the mountain forest and alpine belts with a vertical distribution threshold of 1100–1800 m above sea level. For introduction, promising samples of B. crassifolia based on economically valuable indicators were selected on the ridges of the Southern and Southwestern Altai. Classical botanical methods were used. Based on the results of the research, a collection of 74 specimens of B. crassifoliа was created in the Altai Botanical Garden, among them 59 decorative specimens with high winter hardiness, a full cycle of seasonal development, responding to weather conditions by changing the duration of the phenological phases of development. Based on the timing of flowering, the samples are classified as spring-early flowering and spring-mid flowering. Based on the results of a comparative assessment, 8 forms were recommended for inclusion in the landscaping assortment with a decorative score of 87–98 points.

The portals of the facades of buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Kyiv

The compositional features were considered and the portals of the facades of buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries were classified. in Kyiv. Their symbolism, structure and structural construction, stylistics and characteristic architectural and decorative features were studied. The purpose of the study: to investigate and analyze the compositional, stylistic and semantic features of the portals of the facades of buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. in Kyiv, to develop the principles of classification of portals and conduct their classification. Methodology. The research was conducted on the basis of the following methods: empirical, theoretical and empirical-theoretical. The empirical method includes observation, photo-fixation, graphic sketches and constructions, comparisons and generalizations. Theoretical techniques include: going from the abstract to the concrete, abstraction, concretization, identification and separation. Most of the work was carried out using empirical and theoretical methods. The results. Photographs, graphic sketches and classification of building portals of the late 19th and early 20th centuries were carried out. in Kyiv based on the developed compositional-constructive and stylistic principles of classification. It was found that the portals are located mainly on the main compositional axes of the facades of historical buildings, namely on the main vertical divisions, which are highlighted by risalites, bay windows, attics, towers and often changed scale and shape of windows. The role of the portals in the overall composition of the building and the problem of violation of the compositional integrity of the facades due to the replacement or destruction of individual parts and elements of the portals have been revealed. In particular, as a result of unsuccessful repairs and renovations in some buildings of the historical center, the entrance doors were replaced with faceless, rough, unscaled ones, which distorted not only individual facades, but also entire sections of the urban environment. The scientific novelty and practical significance of the research lies in the identification of the compositional and semantic features of the portals of the facades of Kyiv buildings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as in the detailed analysis of the compositional structure, constructive and stylistic components of the portals. A scientific novelty is the developed classification of the portals of the historical buildings of Kyiv. The research will contribute to the deepening of theoretical and practical knowledge about the peculiarities of Kyiv portals of the specified period, which can be used in the restoration and reconstruction of buildings of the late 19th - early 20th centuries. in Kyiv. The developed classification of portals will be a useful educational reference material for students - future architects and designers who are interested in the peculiarities of Kyiv's historical buildings.

Modern approaches to the use of Berberis Thunbergii cultivars for sustainable landscape design

Purpose. For the purposes of sustainable landscape design of the urban space, to substantiate new modern nature-oriented solutions for the use of dwarf cultivars of the Berberis Thunberg species. Methods. Visual assessment, computer modeling and visualization. Results. One of the aspects of realizing the goals of sustainable development, namely Sustainable development of cities and communities, is the rationalization of living space in cities. An integral part of this process is the aesthetic arrangement of territories, which ensures sustainable landscape design. The design of flower arrangements, flower beds can and should change, be updated, absorb new things. One of the ways of realizing such a context when creating permanent flower beds is the use of metal frame structures, which solve the task of creating a contrast with the colors of decorative plant compositions. The choice of the color of the metal frame should be subject to the thematic and landscape context. In order to give graphicness to decorative plant compositions from cultivars of Berberis thunbergii species, the expediency of horizontal contouring of the plant ornament with metal structures with a width of contour lines of 3–5% of the linear dimensions of the structure is shown. Modeling of structures was carried out using the program Realtime Landscaping Architect 2023.02, Trial Free Version. The use of the color solution, shape, texture of the modeled structures, the use of contour lighting of the decorative-but-foliage installation is substantiated. Cultivars of Berberis Thunberg are given, which are appropriate for use, the life span of which can reach 50 years under the conditions of performing the necessary minimum care. Conclusions. The creation of permanent, aesthetically expressive flower beds and flower beds involves not only the use of environmentally friendly materials, but also the choice of local or adaptive decorative cultivars that provide all-season decorativeness, the absence of the need for annual renewal of plant material, artificial watering, and the creation of a habitat for pollinators and birds The use of cultivars of the Berberis Thunberg species contributes to the creation of stable flower beds that are able to preserve their decorative characteristics for a long time. The most harmoniously proposed compositions will be revealed in the presence of dynamic visual points, a deep perspective and a panoramic view.

Yard phytoarchitecture for onsite sanitation of household wastewater containing copper

Copper can be found in various equipment, building materials, and consumer products. When buildings are used, copper can enter wastewater in different ways. It is challenging for occupants to remove copper physically or chemically since they can potentially reduce copper levels through yard phytoarchitecture. This study aims to formulate houseplants' suitability to become decorative plants for the yard phytoarchitecture, simultaneously as onsite sanitation. This study identified the copper deconcentration pathway in wastewater by studying published works-based research. Literature was collected and selected based on recency, accessibility, and the relationship among copper, wastewater, and plants. The study findings show that processing copper by plant has the greatest opportunity to be implemented on a building scale. The yard phytoarchitecture system involves arranging plants in the yard, which serves both as a decorative feature and a way to treat the building's wastewater. It can be used on dry yards or ponds and only requires a small amount of land. The plants used should have low leaf density and high root density. It plays a dual role consisting of onsite sanitation infrastructure and yard aesthetics, which mutually strengthen the environmental health locally and positively effect on a larger scale.

PROSPECTS OF GREENING SPECIAL PURPOSE OBJECTS ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE TERRITORY OF THE TEMPLE OF THE THREE SAINTS OF VNAU

The article presents scientific and experimental studies on the study of the prospects of greening special-purpose objects for the purpose of designing the recreational environment of the special-purpose territory. The prospects of landscaping the student space «SOFT SKILLS» on the territory of the Temple of Ecumenical Teachers and Saints: Basil Velykoho, Greorgy Bohoslova and Joana Zlatousa with the use of accent plants – decorative grasses were considered. It was noted that landscaping this area can be an important step in creating a pleasant and harmonious environment for students, teachers and visitors, which corresponds to spiritual values and traditions. At the same time, it is important to take into account religious, cultural, and environmental aspects when designing and implementing project solutions. The selection of cultures for the design of the majestic Temple of Ecumenical Teachers and Saints: Basil Velykoho, Greorgy Bohoslova and Joana Zlatousa was carried out with the study of ecological and decorative features of priority plants for modern landscaping. A step-by-step plan for beautification and landscaping of the temple territory has been developed, taking into account the specifics of the object. The goal of the project is the improvement of the territory of the temple, which should create favorable conditions for the cultic enrichment of visitors to the temple. The object of the research was the area around the Church of Ecumenical Teachers and Saints: Basil Velykoho, Greorgy Bohoslova and Joana Zlatousa in the city of Vinnytsia. The main conceptual idea of the project is to organize the temple territory in accordance with functional, ecological and aesthetic requirements; to create a bright and unique artistic image to evoke positive emotions and associations in the visitors of the Temple, but at the same time the project must meet all modern safety and ergonomic requirements of the student space «SOFT SKILLS». The area of the green zone is about 30 m2. The design task is to develop a visualization of project solutions for greening the territory for recreation and ceremonial events. To obtain a decorative effect throughout the year for future landscaping, we suggest using grasses resistant to adverse soil and climatic conditions that would correspond to Orthodox values, as well as using small architectural forms in landscaping (fountains, benches, lanterns, arches, etc.), a lawn created from perennial plants, phytoncide plants.

Гибрид декоративного подсолнечника Смуглянка селекции ВНИИМК

In 2023, an ornamental sunflower hybrid Smuglyanka was transferred to the State Commission of the Russian Federation on testing and protection of breeding achievements. It was developed by crossing lines LD 4 and LD 8. The main decorative features of the new hybrid is intensive expression of anthocyanin coloration on all plant parts during a growing season. The hybrid Smuglyanka is aimed on cutting and landscape design. The originator of the ornamental sunflower hybrid Smuglyanka is V.S. Pustovoit All-Russian Research Institute of Oil Crops.

Artifacts and the Worship of Immortals: An Image Analysis of the Maoling Bamboo-Joint Boshan Furnace in the Han Dynasty

The Boshan furnace of the Han Dynasty is famous for its intricate carving, which possesses both decorative features and symbolic functions. The gilt silver and bamboo-joint bronze fumigation stove, with its continuous Boshan design, towering bamboo joints, and vivid carvings, reflects the two major characteristics of “beauty” and “utility” of the Ming Dynasty artifacts. This article mainly focuses on the transition from three-dimensional to two-dimensional imagery, the transformation of symbolic meanings into spatial analogues, and the comparative analysis of foreign and domestic shapes. The intention is to explore the morphological characteristics of Ming Dynasty artifacts through image research.

What Should a Breastfeeding Place in Public Spaces Be Like? A Qualitative Study on Women's Experiences.

Mothers need a place in public spaces where they can comfortably breastfeed and care for their babies. The availability and design features of these places are critical for meeting mothers' safety and comfort needs while they are breastfeeding. This study was conducted to examine mothers' experiences with breastfeeding places in public spaces. This study, which was planned as a phenomenological research, one of qualitative research designs, was conducted with mothers (n = 18) with breastfeeding experience in public places. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire developed by the researchers. The thematic analysis method was employed to evaluate the data. Study findings were examined under two main themes and 12 subthemes. Getting to the breastfeeding place was actually enough for many of the participants. Women who could not breastfeed for any reason in breastfeeding places stated that they came up with some solutions, such as breastfeeding in the car, feeding with formula, and not taking the baby with them. Participants' basic expectations about the breastfeeding place were that it met cleanliness, hygiene, privacy, and ventilation conditions. It was found that women who tended to spend more time in public spaces recently encountered similar problems during the breastfeeding process. Breastfeeding environments should meet minimum standards such as cleanliness and privacy as well as having the necessary comfort, aesthetics, and decoration features.

Achievements in world and domestic breeding of peonies (<i>Paeonia</i> L.)

The genus Paeonia L. includes both popular ornamental and medicinal plants with a rich history of cultivation and breeding. Breeding is an important process of increasing the diversity of the assortment and creating new cultivars of peonies with various economically important characteristics, such as the shape and color of flowers, different flowering periods and resistance to diseases and abiotic stressors. The main methods used in the breeding of peonies are traditional methods, including intraspecific, interspecific and intersectional hybridization, however, such factors as a long reproduction cycle and the complexity of the breeding process limit the possibilities for good progress in this work. The application of methods of biotechnology and molecular genetics make the breeding process more efficient. The use of germplasm resources and hybridization will accelerate the process of creating new cultivars not only with various decorative features, but also those with high adaptability to biotic and abiotic factors and resistance to phytopathogens and diseases. This review highlights the history of domestic and foreign breeding, modern trends and methodology of peony breeding. Information is provided on the achievements and limitations that exist in the field of molecular biological study of peonies.