How to create your own design philosophy?

Creating your own design philosophy as an architect involves a thoughtful exploration of your values, beliefs, and approach to design. Here are some steps to guide you in developing your own design philosophy:

1. Self-Reflection: Begin by reflecting on your personal values, interests, and passions. Consider what aspects of architecture resonate with you the most and what kind of impact you want to make through your designs. Think about your own experiences, inspirations, and the unique perspective you bring to the field.
2. Study and Research: Immerse yourself in the study of architecture and design. Explore various architectural styles, theories, and movements. Read books, articles, and essays by renowned architects and thinkers. Attend lectures, seminars, and workshops to gain insights and broaden your knowledge.
3. Analyze Influences: Identify the architects, designers, or schools of thought that have influenced your thinking and design sensibilities. Examine their work, principles, and philosophies. Consider how their ideas align or diverge from your own beliefs and design aspirations.
4. Define Your Vision: Clarify your vision for architecture and design. What do you want to achieve with your work? What kind of impact do you want to have on the built environment and society? Define your long-term goals and aspirations as an architect.
5. Identify Core Principles: Identify the core principles that will guide your design philosophy. These principles may include sustainability, human-centric design, cultural sensitivity, context responsiveness, or a specific focus on materials, form, or spatial experiences. Reflect on how these principles align with your values and the kind of architecture you aspire to create.
6. Conceptualize Design Approach: Develop a clear understanding of your design approach. How do you approach problem-solving, concept development, and design development? Consider your preferred design methods, processes, and tools. Reflect on the importance of collaboration, research, and interdisciplinary approaches in your design practice.
7. Iterate and Refine: Creating a design philosophy is an ongoing process. Continuously refine and iterate your ideas based on your experiences and learning. Seek feedback and engage in discussions with other architects, mentors, and professionals to gain different perspectives and challenge your own thinking.
8. Express and Communicate: Once you have developed your design philosophy, find ways to express and communicate it. This can be through written statements, design portfolios, presentations, or even through the designs themselves. Articulate your ideas clearly and concisely, and showcase how your design philosophy is reflected in your work.

Remember that a design philosophy is personal and evolves over time. It is a reflection of your own unique perspective and approach to architecture. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and continue to learn, grow, and refine your design philosophy throughout your career as an architect.