Handbook

This course on the history of design thinking explores connections between the disciplines of architecture and interior architecture. We will take into consideration current practice, particularly perceived problems, such as the alienating nature of many recent design projects. These prompt an inquiry into past principles that demand our attention now. Historical achievements are reinterpreted, with the aim of stimulating alternative design strategies.

The ancient Greeks and Romans are discussed, because their writings influenced designers in later epochs. A tradition of thinking about design stressed the significance of topics, such as: order, proportion, analogy, symmetry, decorum, economy, ornament, the profile of mouldings, the angle of view, empathy, memory, monumentality and light.

Emphasis is placed on the analogy between a person and a design. This involves the theory of a human being as a ‘type’, whose constitution accords with built forms. Analysis of this accentuates human characteristics and actions, which are associated with privileged forms. The history of design thinking offers insight into a human being, who feels an affinity with a city, street, building and room, as well as the fundamental elements of a column, door, window and ornament.