Crafting Distinctive Dwellings: Unraveling the Design Conceptualization Journey for a Unique Home | The Architectural Design Process

The previous blog showcased the 3D modeling procedure, today we will explore the design conceptualization procedure for creating a distinctive house design by employing the same design illustration.

This is to document the entire process to show more related articles in pursuit of our design conceptualization techniques. This process or approach may or may not be similar to different architects' approaches to creating a unique house design. There are a lot of idea generation in this process and one of the methods in generating ideas I'm about to share with you.

This is the introduction part of the of the series Architectural Design Process in the Design Conceptualization of a House using Sketchup.

As part of the Process, the first one is how to Craft Distinctive Dwellings. We will unravel the methods and manage the process as we journey together. 

Idea Generation in The Design Conceptualization Process

Design Brief 

There are a lot of ideas that may come in the first place whenever you encounter design challenges to come up with a unique house design idea. 

The first base to start your idea generation is the Design Brief given by the client. Whenever a client comes to you, He/she may already have ideas in his/her mind. This may be coming from a house they have visited or from a magazine they have seen. Any idea that comes out of the client is the starting point. The Design brief is a document for a design project done by the designer to the client. This outlines the whole scope of the project including all deliverables. This will be the reference for all design projects to evaluate the effectiveness of the design solution.

 The Architect, After the initial meeting with the client, will incorporate all the different ideas that the clients want.

 Note: There are other major factors needed to consider before making the design proposal, however, in this post, I will be dealing with .

Idea Generation

There are several ways to create any design composition of a unique house. Every idea is actually unique in a sense that it is not identical to any of other ideas that are generated by designers and even the clients who is the main decision maker if the project will be put into reality. Out of those many ways, let us consider one big factor, the visual effect of the design. The Spatial function is what we can consider one of the obvious factors. It integrates in three-dimensions the program elements and accommodates the multiple function and relationship of spaces.

The Form and shape of the house is dictated by its size and height requirement. As an architect, one of the ways to get a unique shape is to explore all of the possibilities that will match the theme of the design brief. There should be a Design Statement to start with. The design conceptualization process can be broken down into the outline as you progress.

 

This will include;

• Identifying the problem,

• Making Design Solutions to the problem,

• Defining your Design Goals,

• Objectives and

• The Visualization of the design proposal from Sketch to 3d modeling.

Apart from these, there are other factors to consider in presenting a design solution to the client. There are several research required to do a more realistic design approach. This includes the site and contextual analysis, which will affect the size, shape and building orientation as it relates to the existing condition of the site. Some other factors like the views, lightings, air ventilation, topography, weather condition and the other physical features of the site. 

The development of Plan Layout 

Developing The plan layout is the first stage in the presentation of design concept. It will give you a better understanding of the different aspects required in the architectural design challenges. As part of the process, the research and data gathered are essential elements in making design solution. The shape of the plan will affect the form of the house. 

 The Architectural Form

Form is the primary identifying characteristic of a volume. It is established by the shapes and interrelationships of the planes that describe the boundaries of the volume.

 “Architectural form is the point of contact between mass and space … Architectural forms, textures, materials, modulation of light and shade, color, all combine to inject a quality or spirit that articulates space. The quality of the architecture will be determined by the skill of the designer in using and relating these elements, both in the interior spaces and in the spaces around buildings.” according to Edmund N. Bacon The Design of Cities

The Design approach from this example is the exploration of unique design influenced by the form and shape of the house. The form has a relational property that govern the pattern and composition of the element. The perception of shape is derived from the initials of the client which was developed into a volumetric form to define the size, shape and height of the house. 

This was further developed into a more defined volumetric composition and introduced the design elements to complete the house design, such as the placement of windows and doors creating a unique identity which became personal to the client. This is one of the many possibilities of creating a design composition. 

 

The 3d Model 

The Design conceptualization of a house using sketchup and other 3d modeling software are important in the visualization and conceptualization process. With the preparation of 3d model, the design can be more accurate in terms of determining the size, shape and proportion.

The Design Presentation

 The whole process is an activity that is related to the practice of architecture in rendering the design services to the client. The conceptual stage is the stage where designs composition is developed and refined. Ending with the presentation of the design with the following documents that will justify the design solution of the design brief. 

The Design Concept shall be outlined by.

• Design Brief 
• Identifying the Problem
• Design Solution
• Design Goals and Objectives
• The Plan Layout
• Elevations and Sections
• Perspective views

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Unveiling a Vision: The Design Proposal for a Five-Bedroom Residence

The Design Proposal for a Five-Bedroom Residence

In the realm of architecture and design, unveiling a vision, each project is a canvas waiting to be painted with imagination, functionality, and innovation. It is with great enthusiasm that I present the design proposal for a quintessential five-bedroom residence, a harmonious fusion of aesthetics and practicality aimed at creating a haven for modern living.

This Five Bedroom Residence is another undertaking in our design process where the traditional style of architecture is considered. The form and character match the features of Italian Mediterranean architecture. The inclusion of gutters is the adaptation to this style, which is good for tropical countries where heavy rain waters are collected through a downspout running down the drain.

The 3d Modelling in SketchUp is done to visualize the design concept of this Five Bedroom Residence 

As we are in the process of identifying the right theme and style for this 5-bedroom residence, The 3d model is a perfect tool to visualize the outcome of the design, as shown in the picture below.

After creating the 3d model, the material texture is done to visualize the outcome of the design if it is achieving the Design goals.

Looking at a different view within helps determine the required design details like the ceiling sections, the selection of doors, and their materials, floor finishes, and wall treatment.

After the 3d model, the architectural style can be more defined with the selection of finishing materials. This is a good opportunity to look into what impression you can make with your design. The color scheme will influence the style generated from the form and shape of the house and the intricacy of details. An example of the Mediterranean style, the architect integrates the level of details that characterize the style in the contemporary setting. Background knowledge of the history of architecture will be beneficial in establishing the overall design concept and the design philosophy.

More of the criteria needed to achieve the Architectural Design Proposal of this Five-Bedroom Residence can be broken down into these categories;

• Conceptual Foundation: 

At the heart of this design proposal lies a commitment to seamlessly blend form with function, ensuring that every element serves a purpose while evoking a sense of beauty and tranquility. The overarching concept revolves around creating a space that fosters a connection, with both the surrounding environment and its inhabitants. 

• Spatial Harmony: 

The residence layout is meticulously crafted to optimize spatial flow and enhance the living experience. Upon entering the foyer, guests are greeted by an expansive living area that transitions effortlessly into an open-plan kitchen and dining space. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interiors with natural light, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside and offering a panoramic of the surrounding landscape.

• Bedroom Sanctuaries: 

The five bedrooms, strategically positioned across different levels of the residence, serve as private sanctuaries tailored to meet the diverse needs of the occupants. Each bedroom is thoroughly designed to maximize comfort and functionality, with ample storage space, en-suite bathrooms, and panoramic views of the picturesque surroundings. Natural materials and earthy tones create a warm and inviting atmosphere, relaxation, and rejuvenation. 

 In celebration of the natural beauty surrounding the residence, outdoor living spaces are seamlessly integrated into the design. A sprawling terrace, complete with a lounge area and al fresco dining space, provides the perfect setting for entertaining guests or simply unwinding amid the tranquility of nature. A lush garden, adorned with native flora and fauna, serves as an oasis of serenity, inviting residents to reconnect with the natural world.

• Sustainable Solutions: 

Environmental sustainability lies at the core of the design proposal, with a focus on incorporating eco-friendly features and technologies to minimize the ecological footprint of the residents. From passive design strategies that optimize natural ventilation and daylighting to the integration of renewable energy systems such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting, every aspect of the design is carefully considered promoting sustainability and resilience.

• Community Connectivity: 

Beyond its role as a private residence, this design proposal envisions the creation of a vibrant community where residents can come together to forge meaningful connections and foster a sense of belonging. Shared amenities such as communal gardens, recreational spaces, and multipurpose facilities encourage social interaction and promote a sense of community cohesion.

 In essence, the design proposal for a five-bedroom residence represents a harmonious blend of artistry, functionality, and sustainability, aimed at creating a sanctuary for modern living. It is a testament to the transformative power of architecture and design to shape our lives and elevate our collective experience of home. As the vision begins to take shape, I am excited to embark on this journey of creation and bring this vision to life. In the canvas of architecture, every stroke tells a story.

 

The narrative unfolds with the design proposal for a five-bedroom residence - a story of beauty, functionality, and the boundless possibilities of imagination.

If you would like to have your own unique house design, you can contact me at arkiventure2@gmail.com. 

Exploring new Ideas for House Design

Introduction

This one is another response to a design request of a long time friend. She would like to see her initials in her own Dream home. As I continue to explore my thoughts in composing a new design with the initials DFA, i thought of making a sketch that will speak of the same approach done in the previous post.

As a design exercise, house design are limitless. you can explore new ideas for house design with the initial requirement of exterior design that would bear the initials.

As a Design request, i came up with this design. More options come into play but this one may be appropriate in my initial design study.

The design concept will now be tested if this will be acceptable or not.

Let me walk you through the design process of an architect in terms of creating new design for a prospective client. 

The Design Process

The Design process started from a presentation of a previous design that somehow got the attention of an old friend. made a request to do similar approach to her dream house.

Then the conceptual design of the exterior. Though this process may not seem to be the normal, while developing design composition, the size and shape of the house is already being considered so as to look like a functional house design. As part of the test, this design will be presented to see if it meets the expectation of the client.

The next stage is to present this to the client and see the feedback or the impression so that the space plan will follow afterwards. 

What will be the arrangement of the spaces?  

The form of the building layout will dictate the spaces within. I will share the approach to planning the spaces within the house of this design and the previous one. The intention is to show you the different approaches to creating a space for the built in size and shape of the house.

Space planning is one of the aspect of studies and architect should master. To create the spaces required and group them according to the level of privacy from public to semi public to private spaces. In house design, public spaces are the entrances, living and dining areas. while semi private can be a guest hall while private spaces are the bedrooms and the toilets.

Watch out for the next post to explain the Space planning approach.

The design composition

The form shall be so mix together so as to create a design that will look like a house, sizes and shapes are proportionately considered while choices of building material shall be well placed to balance the texture and the identity of shapes forming the whole design and make the design requirement stand out - that is to show the initials of the client.

Somehow, these approaches made me finish the initial design concept of this house.

Comment below is you have some thoughts about it and I would be very glad to explore new ideas for house design till my next design challenges will come. I will keep sharing my thought about it to help you get more information about my house design experiences.

Thanks for taking some time reading my blog.

Combining Architectural Style

Discussed in my previous blog about Finding Architectural Design ideas, many of you who are actively involved in Architectural Design will be challenged  by your client about creating new designs that will require combining two different styles, the old and the new architecture. This term is simplified as Bisociation.

I thought of exploring this thought and find more practical examples to show so that we can see how to achieve this. What are the criteria we can formulate to guide you through the process.

Two different styles into one.  This is a creative means to come up with a unique architectural design ideas. In terms finding design solution as to the form and style, we need to identify the major and minor.

Here are some of the tips, hope this will help you create more innovative ideas in your design project.

1. Create a major and a minor style of architecture - Blending the two or three architectural styles is a bold move which create an old and new architecture design relationship. Just like composing a song, this would be very difficult to achieve if you don't know how to blend things together. Establish an architectural style to create and determine which one is the major and the minor. 

What will be your blending ratio so that the style will compliment rather than compete. Establish 80 - 20 percent ratio or 70 - 30 up to 60 - 40 percent. Obviously, 80-20 sets the standard to make a clear and dominant style to the least dominant style. While others will give us a subtle blending that will be discussed in tip number 3.

2. Linking the old and the new - The best way to create and decide which architectural style you should pick is in the old style. Linking the past to the present will give you a nostalgic design. People will appreciate the style in terms of catering a structure for different ages. 

In most cases, this is what we call the Transition Period, where you bring new ideas with the old. As in the music, the choice of old song to new melody brings a good composition.
Architectural designs are inspired by the past designs. Setting the trend in architectural design will give you a competitive edge in the public eye. More so, creating your identity and reputation to be the leader in setting the design trend in architecture.

3. Don't over design, keep it simple - in as much as you want to set the trend, remember to keep it simple. Some design may be trendy but won't last longer. Avoid over designing, Make your architecture simple and functional. Consider the construction methodology and cost. Some combination of style can be in the form and shape, color and harmony, contrasting of patterns, size and proportion. List all the things that you need to combine and blend it all together into a single yet simple composition.

4. Find a theme from a previous architectural design trends - as mentioned earlier, finding design from the past is a good idea but you need to consider the design trends in the contemporary. this may go further by observing the design trends in the community and stick to the theme and introduce a new style. 

This will somehow condition the public to the new design trend you are introducing.

In achieving a good architectural design composition, Simplicity and balance will top it all.

Hope you enjoyed reading my post and if you have some comments or suggestion, you can comment below. I would love to explore new tips to achieve this.

Some helpful Book resources I recommend:

This is an affiliate program in Amazon, buying from this site will give me a little commission. I would appreciate it if you do. Other than that, this is a highly recommended book to help you get a better understanding of how you can formulate design ideas and with that, you can combine architectural styles in your Design practice.

The author of this Book Francis D.K. Ching is Professor Emeritus of Architecture at the University of Washington and a registered architect. He is the author or coauthor of numerous architecture and design books, including Architectural Graphics; Building Construction Illustrated; Architecture: Form, Space, and Order; A Visual Dictionary of Architecture; A Global History of Architecture; Interior Design Illustrated; and Design Drawing. James F. Eckler is the Architecture Program Director of the Marywood University School of Architecture. In addition to teaching, Professor Eckler is actively engaged in research concerning the culture of place in the urban environment and architecture's role in the development of community. He is also the author of Language of Space and Form.

If you are and architecture student and is looking for some resources, Here's another book of Francis D.K. Ching and James F. Eckler

The Introduction to Architecture. All in one place so you will not be hovering over the internet. Learn and get resources from our recommended section.

Find Architectural Design Ideas

Architectural Design Ideas, where can you find them? 

For Architects and Architectural Students may find this a very challenging task. Every time you are starting with a new project, Design ideas does not come immediately. There are times you are facing a blank paper you cannot do anything but just stare at the paper. All white, no ideas and don't know where to start.

In this blogpost, i would like to share some thoughts on where to find your Design Ideas and how to start the Design process. 

I find this video by Eric Reinholdt very helpful in exploring our minds and come up with a design solution to a new project or any project that you might be starting.

How to find Architectural Design Ideas

In his design approach, he listed 7 different ways you can get your ideas from, these are;

• Bisociation

• Trusting the Design Process

• Embracing Constraints

• Inventing deadlines

• Doing the Opposite

• Subtracting to solve

• Stealing

These words seem very different but as you watch the video, you will get the better understanding of how you can generate your own ideas. I have discussed some of these in the design process in one of my previous blog on How to generate design concepts . 
Today, let us get more knowledge and understanding so that you can have practically more ways to get your design done. Let us learn from this video.
What does it mean to get your design ideas through Bisociation?

1. Bisociation means the linking of two completely separate, unrelated ideas. How does that work?

2. Trust the Design Process - There are 4 Stages of the design process:

• Preparation - fill the mind with information. This is the research process where you need to get all the information required that will influence your design solutions. It is where you determine the problems to solve. 

• Incubation - is the generation of design ideas from the subconscious mind. Discovering and forging connections leads to solving multiple problems. This is the most maddening experience where you have to unconsciously investigate several briefs at one time. 

• Illumination- This is the idea generation based on the problems you determine from those two process of preparation and incubation. somehow come up with the solution. Test and refine it as you develop your ideas.

• Verification - finally coming up with the design solution led to the conceptualization of the project you are doing.

These are the process that allows us to produce creative work.
3. Embracing Constraints - Constraints are opportunities for us to innovate and boundaries push against.There are far more deeper reasons that needs to be well taken care of. its not just solving a particular need but more so considering technical issues that may influence your design.
Eg.
Roofing syles, height of buildings, size of rooms, setbacks and building codes.
4. Inventing Deadlines- Set aside a time to accomplish something. It is rather a discipline to work within a time frame and accomplish something. Become an Observer -Profound Architecture interprets the world for us! By observation, you can find a lot of ideas. How can observing what's already existing will help us make better buildings?
5. Doing the Opposite- What's the one thing that if removed will lead everything pointless? What would it be like to have a theater without a screen?
6. Subtracting to Solve- Often the best solutions are the simplest
7. Stealing (like an artist) - There is nothing really new in this world. understanding this would free you from looking at the solutions others have developed before you. 

Useful references related to our topic,
These are the recommended books that will help you explore more design ideas by Francis D.K Ching
Architecture: Form, Space, & Order




It is my hope that you will benefit from this blog and hope you can share your thoughts on this by giving your comments below.

How to Generate Design Concepts and Ideas

Concepts and Design Ideas are the most challenging aspects and the most enjoyable stage in the practice of Architecture.

The training starts in the early stage of student taking up architecture.
Generating Design Ideas are developed where students are given the task to create a design solution from simple to complex Design problems.

Usually Giving them the Design Brief and the Architectural Design Process Begins.

Complex Projects in The Architectural practice involves much time researches. Data gathering are necessary then Analyze the Design Problems.

The slides presentation will explain further these processes.



Slide credit to Asaku

Here are some examples of the process I made with actual projects done or on-going. 

Exploring the Site

Part of the project research is the site survey and analysis. We go to the macro and micro level of finding some important and existing features to analyze the project in relation to its location. What are the amenities, neighborhood, transportation by knowing the road networks and the traffic flow, and the growth areas .

Site analysis

Is the result of the site survey. After seeing the existing condition, you can analyze the potential growth. 

The analysis will build the framework of the design proposal. For community planning, rural or urban planning, these step is very crucial as itw will establish a strong foundation leading to the design conceptialization

The Framoerk

Isnot the masterplan but rather a guide leading to the master development plan. Thos principle is to establibish Lines and Circlis. In a macro or larger context, these are the road networks and the growrh areas of the community.

The Schematic layout (design)

The process continues with the schematic layout. This is subject to change as it moves towards developing the plan.

A sketch of the plan is established. These canbecome more specific as to the real inrent of the project proposal. 

These then are the initial steps in the Desig process. We will move towards the design development process in the coming blog. 

Meanwhile, these ends our article, please share your comments below and let me know your thoughts. Let’s have a healthy discussion.

Challenges to Architects - The use of Bamboo

Architects keep on searching for more challenges in terms of creating a unique design. One of the great challenges are the use of materials readily available to the environment. Considering the main factor in responding to the sustainability of the structure.

Here is an example of these challenges, A House Made of Bamboo by Elora Hardy. The video talks about the greater challenges they encountered using bamboo. A brief history of why bamboo has been used from her childhood experience. Her family had a wonderful experience with nature using bamboo in their day to day experience. This led her to make bamboo as the primary source of her designs and took all the potentials in making a design statement. This is an amazing design that paved the way to the way we look at  architectural design and its continuous challenges and its endless possibilities.

What can we learn from this Challenges?

1. We can learn that Architecture blends with nature. With a strong background in architectural design training gained from school, architects are more free to express their ideas in their relationship to nature. Explore their creativity in creating a livable space with the use of native materials readily available. With the proper treatment of the material, as lessons learned from the past where these materials have deteriorated and gone to dust. The architect re-envisioned and reinvent the use of bamboo.

The strength and durability is tested and compared to the strength provided by concrete and steel, as the major materials used in construction nowadays, especially in Asian countries.

Bamboo had a unique quality. It has proven from this example that architects should not be constrained to use these types of materials incorporated in their design.

2. We can learn that Architecture is a call to reinvent the way we build our environment. Instead of being controlled by what is readily available in the commercial industry as to the use of building materials. Architects can use materials provided by nature:

• The form, space and building design can be more challenging by the way these materials are treated.
• In terms of Strength
• In terms of creating a unique shape and style.
• In terms of responding to the need of the users like their sense of privacy, need for natural air and light ventilation, their accessibility and the effect of the material in our physical activities, to name some.

3. We can learn that Architecture is a way solve problems. This is really interesting because it helps the architect to think and think deeper. With the designer's experience, the use of bamboo is not actually a problem but an instant solution. The greater challenge is how to make bamboo more useful and create a shape that architectural design calls for. The plan layout and the space requirements go together to make both ends meet. A constant identification of problem and its solutions is very much experienced in the construction of this example. Because of the unique shape and its hollow core, the bamboo is treated well and made full use of its potential in order to respond to the need to create a space for the dwellers. 

4. Architecture provides functionality and creativity. With the use of bamboo in mind, the architect has now the greater advantage in his design challenges. Whatever building types we are designing, in this case a house, this can now be a subject for consideration in terms of using these materials not only to houses but can also be done in schools and other structures. 

5. Architecture relates to people. The dwellers became more involve in the creation of the structure. They are not afraid to explore new possibilities it can provide. At the same time improve their living condition. The native use of material breaks the barrier and the impression that native material, such as bamboo, is not an identity of social stature but rather an identity of culture, character and unique architecture.