Elevate your architecture: the use of partis in design

    Before I begin a project or design proposal, I must establish a strong point of reference to rely on for inspiration. This keeps my developing work consistent and clear. A point of reference in architecture for design is often referred to as a parti. A graphic, diagram, pattern, proportion, and use if materials can all serve as a parti of a project. A basic, abstract idea analyzed into simple objectives will lay a foundation for a designer to use. This concept is what leads to the clearest and most thought-out architecture. 

    As I have progressed in this blog page, I have used this resource to explore further ideas and projects in building design. I am glad and fortunate to have a place to relay what I have learned through my exploration. This blog can serve as a log for my learning of architecture. This is one of the most important underlying aspects of bettering one's design process. When a designer seeks outside work, they can obtain fresh perspectives and ideas of how the formation of a design can take hold. I use my entries as points of reference for inspiration for my projects. 

    For example, my current build of a small residential house is closely based off of neighboring houses on the street. After an analysis breakdown of the nearby residences,  I could source their basic concepts for inspiration for my house. This, with a combination of a client analysis (and what their characteristics require), leads to something original and deliberate. The houses next to my proposed build use levels of enclosure to separate public and private spaces. I visualize this in the graphic below as I use thick media markers to showcase the thickness of walls. Colors in this diagram also imply different materials. From this simple drawing, I was able to finalize wall formations and a concrete floor plan. It is important to ground your project with reliable source material in this way so that it becomes clear how a design is conceptualized and cemented. 

    In future professional practice, a blog practice would promote continuous learning and exploration of sources. Regular blogging would keep me up to date on innovative design and developing architecture around the globe. Using the blog to log not only outside work but also to log personal work would also be beneficial. The blog would become another place to showcase accomplishments. This can help to elevate an architect's portfolio and spread one's name for professional outreach.