What is a concept in architectural design?

Art and technology are two rails of design train, both are of equal importance in architecture, you cannot run your design train on single rail.

• Art is an essential component of architecture because it allows architects to create designs that are not only functional and efficient but also beautiful and inspiring. By incorporating elements of form, color, texture, and light, architects can create spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and emotionally engaging. Art can also help to communicate the cultural, social, and historical context of a project, giving it a deeper meaning and resonance.
• Technology is equally important in architecture because it allows architects to translate their artistic vision into tangible reality. Through the use of advanced software, materials, and construction techniques, architects can create structures that are structurally sound, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable. Technology also allows architects to collaborate with other professionals, such as engineers, builders, and contractors, to ensure that the design is implemented successfully and efficiently.

Concept is starting force of design train; it takes maximum energy to start the design rail engine. Concept can be a guiding principle, theme, or central organizing idea that influences all aspects of the design, from the overall form to the details. The concept helps to define the project’s goals, constraints, and parameters and provides a framework for the creative process. Organization principles in concept can start from :

1. Site Analysis :  go to the site and feel it.
2. Case study of similar projects it may be live or literature.
3. Area analysis of various activity performed in the project
4. Interconnection diagram, framework or flow chart of these activity
5. Functional approach of concept so that these activities are performed without any fault or glitch. Efficient use of space.
6. Building Material as focus in design approach. While using any building material consider inherit property like life, strength, safety and their maintenance.
7. Building technology, use of building construction methods and techniques in design approach.
8. Sustainable design approach, net zero building.
9. Climatic responsive design approach , considering sunpath diagram, wind movement etc
10. Contextual design approach – Cultural, Historical and Urban context, lifestyle of user,
11.  Philosophical approach – Emphasizes the importance of creativity and innovation.
    1. Expressionism : In form of cultural expression that reflects broader social, political, and philosophical concerns.
    2. Idea of intentionality: Deliberate and conscious choice on the part of the architect to communicate a particular message or meaning to the viewer.
    3. Investigate following is your design
       • ordered vs. random
       • structured vs. unstructured
       • objective vs. subjective
       • one answer vs. multiple solutions
       • creative vs. conservative
       • specific vs. general
       • man vs. nature
       • complexity vs. simplicity
       • design for now vs. design for the future
       • patterned process vs. random process

Architectural concepts are the initial ideas and strategies that architects develop in response to a design situation. The design situation typically includes factors such as the site conditions, client requirements, programmatic needs, budget constraints, and regulatory requirements. The architectural concept is a way for the architect to distill this complex set of factors into a coherent design vision that can guide the development of the project.

Architectural concepts can take many forms and can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as the architect’s personal design philosophy, the cultural and historical context of the project, and the latest trends and innovations in the field of architecture. Some architectural concepts may focus on formal qualities, such as shape, scale, and proportion, while others may emphasize functional considerations, such as the efficient use of space, natural lighting, and ventilation.

A concept diagram is an thought sketch, an preliminary response to a site, a consumer’s program or another circumstances that start to find out the order for designing a mission.  They don’t actually characterize what the mission will appear to be in plan or elevation, however are a highway map of the concepts of the mission.

“A freehand sketch diagram that was on the tangent between thought and creativeness…if the concept– the primary essential diagram – is just not made effectively, it will likely be tough for architecture to comply with.  If there isn’t a concept, there will likely be no architecture, solely (at greatest) little greater than the utility of development.  Buried inside their early sketches is the germ of a story or language.  The early diagrams are reflective conversations with the language of architecture.”

Two approach of design concept – Part to Whole and Whole to Part

One can think complete building as whole or we can start concept with small functional part of building or start with structure grid of building

1. Part to Whole:
   • Definition: In this approach, the design process starts by focusing on individual components or parts of the building and gradually integrates them into a complete whole.
   • Process: Designers may begin by exploring and refining the design of specific functional elements or features of the building, such as individual rooms, spaces, or architectural details. Once these parts are well-defined, they are then assembled and integrated into the overall structure.
   • Advantages: This approach allows for a detailed exploration of each component, ensuring that each part is carefully considered and functional. It also provides a clear understanding of how each part contributes to the overall design.
2. Whole to Part:
   • Definition: In contrast, the “Whole to Part” approach starts with a holistic view of the entire building or structure before breaking it down into smaller components.
   • Process: Designers begin by conceptualizing the overall form, function, and organization of the building as a whole. Once the general framework is established, the focus shifts to refining and detailing specific areas or components within that framework.
   • Advantages: This approach helps ensure that the overall design is cohesive and that individual components fit seamlessly into the larger context. It allows designers to maintain a sense of unity and consistency throughout the entire project.

Both approaches have their merits, and the choice between them often depends on the preferences of the designer, the project requirements, and the specific context of the design task. Some designers may prefer to start with a strong overall concept and then refine the details, while others may find it more natural to explore the details first and then synthesize them into a coherent whole. Ultimately, the goal is to create a well-balanced and functional design that meets the needs of the users and responds to the site and context effectively.

Regardless of their specific form or focus, architectural concepts are essential to the design process. They provide a framework for the development of the project and help to ensure that the final design is both responsive to the design situation and reflective of the architect’s creative vision.

FD Architect Community Forum Discussion

• Parti, Concept or Idea in Architectural design
• What is Architecure ??
• Analogy in architecture
• Analogy : Architecture and Indian Film
• semiotics in architecture
• Study notes of THEORY OF DESIGN FORM
• Study notes of PRINCIPLE OF ARCHITECTURE
• Site Analysis – IMPLICATIONS FOR DESIGN
• How to do Case study in your thesis Project
• Unit to Whole : Architectural Design concept