How To Develop Architectural Concepts - A Guide for Design Professionals

The BIM Engineers are here to help you with a critical aspect of any architectural project: concept development. This newsletter explores the concept behind a design, and how to translate it into a successful building.

What is an Architectural Concept?

An architectural concept is the foundational idea that guides your design decisions. It's more than just an aesthetic style; it encompasses the building's purpose, response to its environment, and the values it embodies. A strong concept ensures a cohesive and well-considered design.

How to Develop Your Architectural Concept

Concept development hinges on in-depth research in three key areas:

• Building Requirements and Design Brief: Understanding the project's purpose and the client's needs is paramount. What will the building be used for? Who are the users?
• Site Analysis and Context: Every building should respond to its surroundings. Analyze the physical and social aspects of the site to inform your design.
• Building Typology: Research similar building types to gain insights into successful solutions and identify challenges specific to your project.

Approaches to Design

When forming your concept, consider various design approaches:

• Functional: Prioritize the building's functionality, especially for structures like hospitals or factories.
• Material: Explore how material selection can influence form and aesthetics. Consider using local materials for environmental and cultural sensitivity.
• Contextual: Integrate the design seamlessly into the surrounding environment, respecting its history and character.
• Conceptual: Focus on a central idea to drive the design, even if the project is purely theoretical.
• Formal: Apply classical design principles like proportion and scale to create a harmonious and ordered structure.
• Collaborative: Involve the end-users in the design process, especially for community-focused projects.
• Philosophical: Consider your design values and how they align with the project's requirements and context.

Tips for Refining Your Concept

• Break Down the Information: Analyze your research findings to identify key issues, influences, and contextual factors.
• Understand the Problem: Diagram the needs and challenges of the project to guide your design approach.
• Sketch Extensively: Sketch freely to explore design ideas, both detailed and general. Regularly revisit your sketches for inspiration.
• Study Precedents: Research existing buildings that address similar problems. Learn from their solutions and adapt them to your project.

Why is a Strong Concept Important?

A well-defined concept provides a framework for your design, ensuring it considers all aspects from initial requirements to site conditions. It fosters clarity and direction, allowing your design to evolve into a cohesive and successful whole.

By following these tips and leveraging our resources, you can develop strong architectural concepts that elevate your designs.

Stay tuned for our next newsletter, where we'll delve deeper into the design process!

Sincerely,

The BIM Engineers Team