ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 03
FINAL MODULE
A. Concepts for Modern Design Solutions (Residential)
Concepts for modern design solutions in residential spaces:
1. Open Floor Plans: refer to a home or building layout where multiple rooms or spaces are combined into
a single, large, undivided space.
• Eliminate unnecessary walls, promoting a sense of spaciousness and connectivity between
different areas/spaces of the home.
• Use furniture and décor (example: cabinets which can be used as dividers) to define specific zones
within the open space.
Some key features of open floor plans include:
- Spaciousness
- Flexibility
- Natural Light
2. Integration of Smart Home Technology: enables various devices and systems to connect, communicate,
and be controlled remotely through a network, typically over the internet.
• Incorporate smart home systems for lighting, security, temperature control, and entertainment
to enhance convenience and efficiency.
Some aspects of a home that can be integrated with smart technology:
- Security Systems
- Smart Lighting
- Smart Thermostats
- Voice Control
3. Sustainable Design: Sustainable design is a holistic approach that seeks to balance economic, social, and
environmental considerations, aiming to create a regenerative and harmonious relationship between
human activities and the natural world.
• Prioritize environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions.
• Integrate renewable energy sources such as solar panels and consider sustainable landscaping
practices.
Several key principles characterize sustainable design:
- Energy Efficiency
- Water Conservation
- Material Selection
- Indoor Environmental Quality
- Adaptability and Durability
4. Flexible and Multifunctional Spaces: refers to spaces that are designed to serve multiple purposes and
can be easily adapted or reconfigured to accommodate different activities or functions.
• Design spaces that can serve multiple purposes, allowing residents to adapt their living
environments to changing needs.
• Incorporate furniture with modular designs that can be easily reconfigured.
Some key aspects of flexible and multifunctional spaces:
- Adaptability
- Multipurpose Use
- User-Centric Design
- Efficient Use of Space
5. Innovative Storage Solutions: refers to creative and unconventional approaches to address storage
needs within a space.
• Maximize storage space through creative solutions like built-in cabinets, under-stair storage, and
hidden storage compartments.
• Utilize multi-functional furniture with integrated storage options.
Best Example: Multi-functional Furnitures
6. Natural Light and Ventilation: refer to the use of sunlight and fresh air in indoor spaces, without relying
heavily on artificial lighting or mechanical ventilation systems.
• Prioritize large windows, skylights, and glass doors to bring in abundant natural light.
• Consider cross-ventilation strategies to enhance indoor air quality and reduce reliance on
artificial lighting and cooling.
These concepts are essential in architecture and building design for several reasons:
- Health and Well-being: exposure to natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms and can reduce
the risk of health issues such as eyestrain and headaches.
- Energy Efficiency
- Regulation of Indoor Air Quality
7. Minimalist Aesthetics: refer to a design or artistic style that emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and
the use of a minimal number of elements.
• Embrace a minimalist design approach with a focus on simple forms, neutral color palettes, and
uncluttered spaces.
• Select furniture and decor items with clean lines and functional designs.
Key characteristics of minimalist aesthetics include:
- Simplicity
- Limited Color Palette
- De-cluttered Environment
8. Indoor-Outdoor Living: The goal is to create a harmonious and integrated living environment that
connects the indoor spaces with the outdoors, often by incorporating features like large windows, glass
doors, and outdoor living areas.
• Blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces with features like sliding glass doors, outdoor
patios, and gardens.
• Create seamless transitions that allow residents to enjoy nature from the comfort of their homes.
Key elements of indoor-outdoor living include:
- Large Windows and Glass Doors
- Landscaping Integration
- Flowing Design
9. Biophilic Design: The term "biophilia" literally means "love of life or living systems," and biophilic
design aims to enhance the well-being and quality of life for inhabitants by fostering a strong and positive
connection with nature.
• Integrate elements of nature into the design, such as indoor plants, natural materials, and views
of greenery.
• Create a connection between residents and the natural environment to enhance well-being.
Biophilic vs Bioclimatic vs Biomimicry vs Sustainable Design vs Green Architecture
- Biophilic design focuses on the human connection to nature within the built environment.
- Bioclimatic design optimizes a building's performance in relation to local climate conditions.
- Biomimicry draws inspiration from nature's solutions to design challenges.
- Sustainable design takes a holistic approach to minimize environmental impact throughout a
product or building's life cycle.
- Green architecture is a subset of sustainable design with a specific focus on the ecological aspects
of buildings.
10. Accessibility and Universal Design: The goal is to create inclusive spaces and experiences that
accommodate a diverse range of individuals, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations.
• Prioritize accessibility features to ensure that the home is user-friendly for people of all ages and
abilities.
• Include features such as step-free entrances, wider doorways, and adaptable spaces.
Key aspects of accessibility include:
- Physical Accessibility: ramps, elevators, and wide doorways.
- Visual Accessibility: use of braille, high-contrast visuals, and audio descriptions.
- Auditory Accessibility: captioning and hearing loop systems.
- Cognitive Accessibility: clear signage, simple language, and well-organized information.
B. Concepts for Modern Design Solutions (Commercial)
Concepts for modern design solutions in commercial settings:
1. Open and Collaborative Workspaces: refer to physical or virtual environments designed to foster
communication, cooperation, and teamwork among individuals or groups within an organization.
• Incorporate flexible workstations, communal areas, and collaborative spaces to accommodate
different work styles.
2. Flexible Furniture and Modular Spaces: design concepts aimed at creating dynamic and adaptable
environments that can easily respond to changing needs and functions.
• Use modular furniture and adaptable layouts to create flexible spaces that can be easily
reconfigured to accommodate changing needs.
• Consider movable partitions and furniture with built-in flexibility to support various activities.
3. Biophilic Design: The goal of biophilic design in commercial spaces is to create environments that not
only support productivity and efficiency but also enhance the overall experience and well-being of those
who inhabit or visit these spaces.
• Integrate elements of nature into the workspace, such as indoor plants, natural materials, and
large windows with views of greenery.
• Enhance employee well-being, creativity, and productivity through biophilic design principles.
4. Technology Integration: refers to the incorporation and utilization of various technologies to enhance
and streamline business operations, improve efficiency, and meet the evolving needs of the organization
and its stakeholders.
• Implement cutting-edge technology for seamless communication, collaboration, and efficiency.
• Consider smart building systems, interactive displays, and integrated audio-visual solutions to
enhance the workplace experience.
Key aspects of technology integration in commercial settings include:
- Automation and Robotics
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): to manage and streamline various business processes such
as finance, human resources, supply chain, and customer relationship management.
- Communication and Collaboration Tools: video conferencing, messaging apps, and project
management software to facilitate efficient communication
5. Innovative Use of Materials: refers to the creative and unconventional application of various
substances, surfaces, and elements to achieve unique and aesthetically pleasing outcomes in the design
of commercial spaces.
• Experiment with innovative and sustainable materials to create a modern and visually appealing
aesthetic.
• Consider recycled and upcycled materials, as well as those with advanced features like selfcleaning surfaces.
6. Agile Work Environments: The design of agile work environments aims to create spaces that empower
individuals and teams to work collaboratively, respond quickly to changes, and foster innovation.
• Embrace agile work concepts by providing a variety of work settings, from private offices to
collaborative zones and quiet spaces.
• Allow employees the flexibility to choose the environment that best suits their tasks and
preferences.
7. Hospitality-Inspired Design: This design approach aims to create a welcoming and comfortable
atmosphere for customers, clients, or visitors, similar to what one might experience in a hotel or
restaurant setting.
• Infuse commercial spaces with hospitality-inspired design elements, creating a welcoming and
comfortable atmosphere.
• Consider lounge-style seating, stylish reception areas, and amenities that enhance the overall
experience.
8. Sustainable Design Practices: involve incorporating environmentally friendly and resource-efficient
principles into the planning, construction, and operation of commercial spaces.
• Implement sustainable design principles, including energy-efficient lighting, eco-friendly
materials, and waste reduction strategies.
•
Pursue green building certifications to demonstrate a commitment to environmental
responsibility.
9. Well-Designed Reception Areas: refers to the thoughtful and strategic planning of the front-facing space
within a commercial or business setting where visitors, clients, and employees first enter. The reception
area plays a crucial role in shaping the first impression of the company or organization.
• Create impressive and functional reception areas that set a positive first impression for clients,
partners, and visitors.
• Use a combination of design elements, including lighting, furniture, and branding, to convey
professionalism and style.
C. Basic Design Principles in Commercial Design
Fundamental design principles in commercial design:
1. Functionality: The primary purpose of commercial spaces is to serve a specific function or business
activity.
• Prioritize functionality to ensure that the space meets the practical needs of the business and its
occupants.
• Design layouts that facilitate efficient workflows, whether it's an office layout that supports
collaboration or a retail space that encourages product visibility and accessibility.
2. Spatial Planning: Efficient space utilization: Maximizing the use of available space to accommodate the
required functions without overcrowding.
• Carefully plan the allocation of space to accommodate different functions and activities within
the commercial setting.
• Consider the traffic flow, accessibility, and zoning of areas based on the specific requirements of
the business.
3. Branding and Identity: Ensuring that the aesthetic elements of the design align with the brand identity
and overall theme of the commercial space.
• Reflect the brand identity and values of the business in the design elements of the space.
• Use consistent color schemes, logos, and graphics to create a cohesive brand image throughout
the commercial environment.
4. Flexibility and Adaptability: Incorporating modular and flexible furniture to adapt to changing needs
and accommodate different activities.
• Design spaces that can adapt to changing needs and accommodate future growth or
modifications.
• Incorporate flexible furniture, modular layouts, and adaptable technologies to support evolving
business requirements.
5. Comfort and Ergonomics: Designing furniture and fixtures with consideration for comfort, usability, and
the well-being of users.
• Prioritize the comfort of occupants by selecting ergonomic furniture and considering factors such
as lighting, temperature, and acoustics.
• Create work environments that contribute to the well-being and productivity of employees.
6. Aesthetics and Visual Appeal: Balancing functionality with aesthetics to create an inviting and visually
pleasing environment.
• Consider the visual impact of the design, creating an aesthetically pleasing environment that
aligns with the business's image and industry.
• Use design elements such as color, texture, and lighting to enhance the overall visual appeal.
7. Lighting Design: Use lighting strategically to emphasize key areas or products.
• Implement a well-thought-out lighting plan to provide adequate illumination for different
activities and enhance the atmosphere.
• Combine natural and artificial lighting to create a balanced and inviting environment.
8. Material Selection: Use a variety of materials to differentiate between areas and create a tactile
hierarchy.
• Choose materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and suitable for the
intended use.
• Consider the maintenance requirements and sustainability of materials in the long term.
9. Spatial Hierarchy: refers to the organization and arrangement of spaces within a commercial
environment based on their importance, function, and user experience.
• Establish a spatial hierarchy to guide the eye and emphasize key areas within the commercial
space.
• Use design elements such as focal points, contrasts, and varying heights to create visual interest
and direct attention.
Key considerations and strategies for establishing spatial hierarchy in commercial design:
1. Primary Spaces: Determine the main purposes of the commercial space, such as customer service
areas, product displays, or work zones.
2. Circulation and Flow: Establish clear pathways and circulation routes that guide users through
the space in a logical and intuitive manner.
3. Zoning: Divide the commercial space into distinct zones based on function or product categories.
4. Focal Points: Introduce focal points, such as prominent displays, artworks, or architectural
features, to draw attention and serve as visual anchors.
5. Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to define functional areas and create natural
groupings.
10. Accessibility and Inclusivity: critical considerations in commercial design to ensure that spaces and
products accommodate the diverse needs of all individuals, regardless of age, ability, or background.
• Design spaces that are accessible to individuals of all abilities, ensuring compliance with relevant
accessibility standards.
• Consider inclusivity in the design, providing features that accommodate diverse needs and
preferences.
11. Wayfinding and Signage: critical components of commercial design that help users navigate and
understand the layout of a space.
• Implement effective wayfinding strategies to guide people through the space and enhance
navigation.
• Design clear and concise signage to communicate information about different areas, services,
and facilities.
12. Sustainability: Considering elements such as natural light, ventilation, and energy-efficient appliances.
• Integrate sustainable design practices to minimize the environmental impact of the commercial
space.
• Consider energy-efficient technologies, eco-friendly materials, and waste reduction strategies.