113 Architecture questions - How is a building design created?
How is a building design created?
Sketch paper out, pencil sharpened and off you go! This is probably how many people imagine the origins of a building. But it's not quite that simple.
Depending on the location, spatial programme, building typology etc. and ultimately the architect, there are different approaches to how an idea for a building can be developed. It is important to recognise and incorporate the interrelationships and dependencies.
The first step therefore consists of analysing the basics and defining the technical, financial and legal framework conditions. The latter also include, for example, the urban planning requirements. Other important information includes the economic parameters, i.e. how much usable space do I need to get out of the building so that I can afford to build it.
Once the architect has gathered all the important information, in the second step he can actually sharpen his pencil and start by moulding the legal framework conditions into a building envelope, thus defining the outer limits of the building within which he can operate. At this point, however, we are not yet talking about architecture, but rather a glass outline.
In the third step, the individual approach and the architect's understanding of design play a major role. There are countless variations on how he can proceed.
For example:
* He develops the building envelope first and then tries to fill it with the spatial programme. This can be tried out using analogue or digital models.
* He first considers the interior and then the building envelope. So what do the users do, where do they go? What are the processes?
* He can first invent a story and derive a design from it.
* "Mr Müller comes home from work. He walks through the front garden to the bright and high foyer and looks for his keys under the canopy...etc."
* A relatively new approach is parametric design. Parameters for walls, roofs, dimensions, etc. and their interrelationships are entered into the computer to generate and manipulate the form.
* A more sculptural approach attempts to merge the inside with the outside and to think inversely.
* The design can be defined by external influences such as visual axes and rays of light.
* Site-specific architecture by studying the surroundings and the context.
* A further approach can take place via the supporting structure, which then determines the architecture.
A combination of several of these processes is not excluded.
Ultimately, however, it is always about integrating the function in proportion and materiality and creating tensions, contrasts, opposites but also symmetry, harmony and calm. A perception - even if subconscious - of something well-considered. At the same time, the architecture must not appear naïve and be geared towards effects and short-lived appearances.
