AWOL Trends Posting
AWOL Trends is the world’s first open-source design trend database, made by designers for designers. The free site is a database of curated design
trends which have been tracked for several years, looking at viable aesthetic trends across all design disciplines.
"Hexagons and Honeycombs
The use of hexagons, alone or in a repeating pattern, has long been the stuff of sci-fi set design. Nothing says moon colony (to someone familiar with ‘70s or ‘80s sci-fi) like a nice array of hexagonal windows peering into space. However, they have evolved in recent years to become a truly modern graphic motif adopted across many categories. The hexagon still retains its scientific/mathematical roots (from molecule diagrams and geometric constructs), but now has an ecological association with it as well (honeycombs and other cellular structures), as well as strong connotations of cutting-edge technology. In an aesthetic landscape that prefers either right-angle, grid-based orderliness or chaotic/organic fluidity, the hexagon/honeycomb represent an almost alien stylistic sensibility. The latest embodiments introduce some variation into the basic theme by creating three-dimensional arrays of honeycomb pattern, or varying the sizes of each hex in a discreet cluster, or even heavily rounding the hexagon’s edges so it takes on a softer, more approachable quality. The Automotive industry has shown a particular fondness for the hexagon in recent years, adorning the various grills of new concepts, while the Fashion category has yet to really embrace this theme (mostly appearing in some jewelry and accessories). However, the Footwear category has celebrated the honeycomb pattern, particularly in more sports-related segments where the pattern conveys strength, flexibility, new technology, and breathability. Special thanks to Daniel Carter for recognizing and submitting this trend!"
http://awoltrends.com/2012/02/hexagons-honeycombs/
