DESIGNS

Most popular with churches is the Chartres labyrinth pattern. It originated in the early Middle Ages specifically to incorporate Christian meaning and symbolism. The most elegant and best-known version of the medieval pattern is the one found in Chartres Cathedral, France. It was built in 1201 and is still in existence. Other Gothic cathedrals had labyrinths, but they were generally removed when the floors were renovated. Due to its size, the canvas Chartres labyrinth is divided into three sections which are connected by Velcro. The outer sections weigh about 30 pounds each, while the center section is about 40 pounds. One or two people can unfold and connect the Chartres labyrinth in ten minutes. The Velcro only fits together in one way, running vertical to the entrance, with the lines of the pattern showing the proper alignment.

The Petite Chartres is a round, 7-circuit labyrinth designed to be a look-alike substitute for the full Chartres labyrinth. Being 20 to 24 feet in diameter, it can fit into smaller rooms. Standard size is 24-feet in diameter. The Petite Chartres has off-set entrance paths, central petals and lunations, just as with the Chartres pattern. However, there are fewer circuits (7 concentric circular paths) and fewer lunations.

The Chartres Essence is a round, 7-circuit labyrinth with elements resembling the Chartres labyrinth. Typically, it is 24 feet in diameter. The biggest drawback for a smaller labyrinth is not the size of the paths, but rather, the small size of the center, which accommodates few people. To remedy this, the Chartres Essence has a center the same size as a full Chartres pattern, almost one-third of the diameter. This proportion allows it to serve a larger number of people at the same time. The entrance is also the most like the full Chartres, simply having one turn in each quadrant rather than a pair of turns.

The Classical 7-circuit labyrinth pattern is the oldest and most prevalent of the labyrinth designs. It is at least 4,000 years old and can be found all over the world. During the last twenty-five years, there has been a resurgence of interest in labyrinths in the United States, in both religious and secular contexts. Generally speaking, churches choose the Chartres labyrinth designs, because of its association with Gothic cathedrals. Secular and generic uses, however, often use the classical design. Variations include the pure Classical with path-width center and the round concentric that allows for a larger center area.

At 12 feet in diameter, the Heart of Chartres labyrinth is a petite personal-sized labyrinth suitable for use in homes, small chapels, classrooms, etc.  Popular with children and adults alike. The pattern consists of five circuits, derived from the five inner circuits of the Chartres pattern. Since it is a variation, the petals and lunations are stylized

The Circle of Peace labyrinth was inspired early on as Lisa researched labyrinths and expanded her experience. Lisa had installed several public labyrinths in the Classical and Chartres styles, but was drawn to create a labyrinth that combined elements of both. She found that while some clients preferred the long sweeping paths of the Classical designs, others enjoyed the frequent ¼ and ½ circle turns found in the Chartres labyrinth. Many people had a preference for a 7-circuit size. Thus, the Circle of Peace was created. This design has 7 circuits, 3 that are ½ circle, 2 that are ¼ circle and 2 that are full circle paths. Merging sacred geometric ratios of the medieval patterns and elements of the Classical, the Circle of Peace emerged as a contemporary design that appeals to a broad audience of users. Download a page that describes in further detail the symbolism and walking experience of the Circle of Peace design.

Inspired by the Baltic Wheel of northern Europe, the Dancing Woman labyrinth was birthed from Lisa’s creative curiosity as she was grieving the death of her mother. While the story of the labyrinth is a personal one, its appeal is wide and far reaching, especially in relation to cancer, healing and survival. Read the story and unique symbolism of the Dancing Woman design.

Originally called the CrossRoads Problem Solving Labyrinth, this dual, mirrored path pattern was initially created to teach peaceful conflict resolution and problem solving in schools. The Harmony labyrinth patterns have continued to evolve into several labyrinth variations with additional applications such as ceremonial use, including weddings and marriage commitment celebrations. Download a document that details the peaceful conflict resolution process and the associated psychology of the path pattern that is unique to the Harmony Labyrinths.

The Medieval Meander was designed to replicate the walking experience of the pavement labyrinth in the Chartres Cathedral in France, but in a 7-circuit pattern for use in smaller spaces. The Medieval Meander is based on the inner 7-circuits of the Chartres labyrinth and replicates the sacred geometric ratios and elements found in Chartres. The labyrinth also includes the perimeter lunations and six-petal rosette center that are unique to the cathedral labyrinth. This pattern in one of several 7-circuit medieval variations that are popular choices for both portable and permanent installations.

Inspired by an experience at a Labyrinth Society conference, Lisa was intrigued to create a labyrinth pattern where two people could walk (or dance!) the entire labyrinth while walking side-by-side on adjacent paths.  Doodling, trial and error resulted in the Partner Stroll, a fun and unique design that lends well to conversational strolling and general fun.  This labryinth can also be used for individual walking. Download information that shows the walking process.