AR 112: Theory of Architecture 02 - Module 01

Flashcards on the Architectural Design Process and Methodologies

Architectural Design Process

A purposeful activity aimed at devising a plan for changing an existing situation into a future preferred state.

Initiation

The first stage of the design process, involving problem identification and definition.

Preparation

The second stage of the design process, involving collection and analysis of information, including site analysis, data collection, client interviews, and lot information.

Proposal-Making

The third stage of the design process, involving synthesis or bringing together a variety of considerations and brainstorming to develop solutions.

Evaluation

The fourth stage of the design process, involving scrutinizing the proposal based on goals and getting feedback from others; performed periodically by the designer and the mentor/client.

Iteration

The fifth stage of the design process, involving revision and improvement of design and repeating the cycle.

Preliminary Design Phase

The phase where programming happens, kicking off the entire process of architectural design. The architect communicates with the client, conducts site analysis, reviews ordinances, and provides a design proposal and contract.

Schematic Design Phase

The phase after the client agrees, where the design team translates acquired information into a project design concept, organizing facts and observations to identify unmet needs. Involves series of rough sketches or drawings such as 3D renderings, preliminary site plans, floor plans, and building elevations.

Drawings, Diagrams, Sketches

Essential representations for thinking, problem-solving, and visual communication in design disciplines, particularly for making physical forms.

Diagrams

Drawings of geometric shapes to show different relationships within any given space.

Parti

A type of diagram that serves as a general idea to figure out a building's program or layout, usually in the form of quick sketches or even 3D models.

Morphology

The study of the forms and things, in particular.

Site Analysis

Requires the architect to be observant of the natural and man-made features within and around the site, as these features are expected to have an impact on the site, design, and user experience.

Sun and Shadow Analysis

Observing where the sun is coming from at different times of the day and how it affects the site/structures being designed.

Wind Movement Analysis

Taking wind movement into consideration because it can affect design decisions; involves understanding prevailing winds and other factors influencing wind movement.

Circulation Analysis

Analyzing the movement of people and vehicles surrounding the site to guide decisions on entry points and the architectural structure.

View and Vista Analysis

Looking for the presence of a view that can be capitalized on and converted into a vista.

Bubble Diagram

A set of round or elliptical shapes representing one space within a design, showing its location and proportional size.

Matrix Diagram

Diagram is an in-depth look into how each space relates to the other within the building with the purpose to organize and link different activity areas together.

Schematic Plan

Details and addresses the location and shapes of various spaces and places with a fair minimum of detail.

Block/Site Plan

Usually shows the siting of buildings as blocks laid out on maps of the surrounding area drawn to a suitable metric scale that shows the detail of the development or proposed development.

Design Development Phase

The architectural design intent manifests as a detailed plan using the schematic plans and solutions for materials, and opening locations.

Contract Document Phase

The fourth of the architectural design process wherein the design becomes a reality. The design becomes a reality for permit application and construction.

Construction Phase

The chosen/winning contractors build as per the design intent. Here design shifts to project management.