Demystifying design processes of architectural details

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[edit] Introduction

The design process can refer to an activity with series of distinctive and instinctive tasks involving the progression of creative thinking. During the different stages of the design processes, innate and impulsive skills may be used as well as conscious and voluntary decisions.

Detail design is the systematic process of producing illustrative information, solutions and methods to problems in an effort to translate conceptual design into a buildable, physical form.

[edit] Creativity in detailing

Due to the numerous choices of materials and construction approaches, detailing can be looked upon as a design process. The complexity of selections and installations make it appear as more of a thoughtful procedure rather than an instructional one.

Additionally, building performance requirements make it even more complicated to design an architectural detail. Fire prevention measures, thermal characteristics, lighting demands and many other requirements compel the designer to be more precise and consider more options to achieve optimal goals.

[edit] Creativity or process?

Detailing is related to the selected types of materials and technologies available. It is also connected to the extent to which items can be integrated and connected to produce the desired overall results.

When developing a design detail, it is normal to consider past design solutions for a particular aspect. Overlooking past solutions can unnecessarily waste time and resources. Criticisms of formerly designed details may help to shape new details in a way that can improve functionality and practicality.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Concept design.
• Design process.
• Detail design.
• Detail drawing.
• Working drawing.