ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PROCESS

Challenge and Selection:

Being an Architect, designing for the client and meeting their requirements is the major challenge

in our professional. This involves the use of not one but two tools, i.e. visualization and mind

maps. These tools have found continues application as they not only help in building a bubble of

thoughts but also keeping a check as I have the deliverables constantly in front of me. The visual

thinking helps me to reiterate and link with the client’s requirements along with pouring my

thoughts conveniently onto the paper and making it easier for the client comprehend the design.

Application:

Firstly, I use the mind map tool to create multiple bubbles that are categorized as (not limited

to):

1. Essential requirements (mandatory)

2. Scope

3. Limitations

4. Desirables (not mandatory but preferred)

5. Mood images (set of reference)

6. Deadlines for submissions

This mind map always remains at the working station as this provides a boundary to the infinite

possibilities that hamper the timelines. After the initial mind map the next step is the visual

thinking tool where I start with a rough sketch on the plot, which is refined further with

overlapping of layers of design process till the final product is achieved. The design process is

divided into multiple stages starting with the conceptual stage. At this point the sketches are very

vague and disorganized. Continuous pondering and drawing result in better defined outcomes.

The preliminary sketches then results in the development of final form with respect to plans,

elevations and sections. The discussions make it a reiterative stage where the design keeps on

evolving to satisfy the need of the client and the creative inputs from my side. Concluded with

the selection of material palette, this marks the end of the visual thinking stage.

