Integrated Design Process: New paradigms in sustainable architecture

Abstract

The concept of Integrated Design Process, essential to achieve the standards of sustainability and energy efficiency in architecture, proposes that the process should evolve from a traditional model where the project flows linearly from the architect to the specialists, to an integrated process where all members of the design team work collaboratively from the beginning of the process. The notion of Integrated Design Process found in current literature is eminently methodological, based on an understanding of the design process as Analysis/Synthesis; where the problem is broken down into individual problems, reaching sub-solutions until achieving the overall solution, and where architects and engineers approach the design from different perspectives. This article proposes that the integrated design process in the practice of sustainable design is closer to a Conjecture/Analysis paradigm that suggests that designers – architects and engineers working collaboratively - would propose an idea based on their knowledge and experience before attempting to do any analysis. The research methodology was based on case studies of contemporary architectural practices that are pioneers in sustainable architecture and energy efficiency. The design process of a sustainable building designed by each practice was mapped using interviews with architects, engineers and clients; as well as analysis of graphic information and documents. The conclusions stress out that for the Integrated Design Process to occur, it is not enough to have a methodological approach, but to understand the changes in paradigms that pose education as an essential mean to shape the ‘new architect’ and the ‘new engineer’ who share knowledge and skills, as well as a common language.

Key words: Integrated Design Process, sustainable architecture, energy efficiency.