Methodology in architectural design

Abstract

The act of designing in architecture is a complex process. Many designers, when probed for reasons to explain their actions, are either unable to answer questions, or provide explanations that are not true descriptions of their actions. Frequently the designer will answer that his or her reason for making a particular design decision is based on 'feeling' or 'intuition.' Under this model the design process assumes a 'mystical' aura. Architectural designers can create, yet are unable to say how they do so. Often that which can be explicitly discussed by the designer is the least significant part of his or her design process. It is unlikely that designers are 'channeling' information from cosmic sources. Rather, they are working with knowledge that is largely tacit. This thesis attempts to de-mystify the process of architectural design. Through a close scrutiny of existing literature, incorporation of personal experience as an architect, and testing of theories with lay, novice, and expert designers a theory of design methodology is proposed.