The Architectural Design Process
An Architect shares how she approaches Architectural Design
Much of my work has become intuitive. With years of practice, I’d put the healthy habits of contemplation and evaluation to the wayside as I entered into the deep work of design and construction documents. Lifting my head up, I see the interest and need to ponder, process and talk about design. In my small practice we hold the following design practices most dear. Above all we enter into an authentic relationship with our clients, listening and guiding, sketching and editing, all in our best attempt to reclaim a bit of creation for this present time and generations to come. Our goal is to be good stewards of our resources, both in time and the tangible. And we endeavor to create worthwhile, beloved places with a focus on hospitality and refuge.
Elements of Design
Essential design components that turn an idea into a work of art are the following: Line, Direction, Proportion, Rhythm, Texture, Balance, Emphasis, Variety, Unity, Emptiness. Whatever the medium, the elements provide richness, variety and organization to a design.
Architectural Design Principles
These principles include specific rules that guide the development of designs specifically as it relates to the built environment. Some are unique to a particular phase, but I find it enriches both the process and the project to repetedly revisit these guideposts.
o Concept Design and Site Planning
Place, Identity, Scale, Alignment, Movement, Light, Passive solar + wind
o Schematic Design and Design Development:
Efficiency, Balance, Pattern, Structure, Function and Flexibility, Emphasis, Emptiness
Principles of Decision Making
o Identity + Purpose: What makes the design unique, where is the focus?
o Light + Shadow: What configuration and massing invite the most light?
o Flow + Variety: What defines and connect spaces?
o Tuning+ Discipline: What is not necessary? Where can I apply efficiency and editing to clarify the design
o Prospect + Refuge: Where are the places of wonder and rest?
o Gathering + Utility: How do the spaces serve the occupants and those they welcome?
o Sustainability (selections + systems): What are the goals to be good stewards of resources?
o Details + Legibility: What is the design language and how does it permeate throughout the design?
o Materials + Texture: Have I considered authentic materials, softness, variety, interest, warmth, and richness.
o Indoor + Outdoor: How do spaces flow from within? And how do views focus movement, and how does light fill a room?
o Connection + Privacy: Have I defined what spaces are for guests and which spaces are particular to the family?
If we as designers consider such things, remembering along with our fellow creatives the divine principles of making and creating the everyday art of a home, we are better equipped to serve our clients holistically.
