Notes on Architectural Design

Abstract

Design has so many levels of meaning that it is itself a source of confusion. The word design is used as a noun and a verb at the same time showing differences in meaning: when it is used as a noun, it refers to the end product; and when it is used as a verb, it refers to the activity of design itself. It also implies a systematic or intensive planning and ideation process prior to the development of something or the execution of some plan in order to solve a problem (Smith and Ragan, 2005).

This article aims to review literature about what design is and different design models. It starts with a brief discussion about design as a term, and then looks at three major design paradigms (design as problem solving, design as conjecture, and design as abduction). In conclusion, we cannot identify a single model that covers all ideas and issues in design, and that it is not simply about satisfying the pragmatic requirements of form. However, creativity can be found in every design model, if not in the apparent form of a distinct creative event, then in the development of a unique solution.

Keywords: design, architectural design, problem solving.