Oct 17 2012: First off symmetry is a matter of perspective. Change the axis, no more symmetry.
Certain things have symmetrical patterns and designs in them because they're typically more efficient to produce, put together, take apart, instruct on usage, etc.
When it comes to things that aren't mass produced, symmetry usually takes a back seat. Art, for example, is often not symmetrical at all. There's no need for art to be more efficient, but there is a need to build houses efficiently. Artistic houses on the other hand... that's why you pay the big bucks for it.
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A comment on Conversation: Why are man-made creations so symmetrical?
Certain things have symmetrical patterns and designs in them because they're typically more efficient to produce, put together, take apart, instruct on usage, etc.
When it comes to things that aren't mass produced, symmetry usually takes a back seat. Art, for example, is often not symmetrical at all. There's no need for art to be more efficient, but there is a need to build houses efficiently. Artistic houses on the other hand... that's why you pay the big bucks for it.