Which approach is effective and efficient in conceptualizing design ideas in architecture: 'form follows function' or 'function follows form'?
The consensus now is that both are very important determinants and are not exclusive. I think the same applies to the form-or-function-first question. Of course we want our buildings to be efficient - structurally, ergonomically and ecologically - and we mostly agree that elegant design generally reflects functionality. But the human brain is much more complex than to simply accept things at face value. We have a need to be inspired by what we find beautiful and inspiring.
Paraphrasing what Subaru once said about the fake hood scoop on their sport-model cars: "Form follows function. Sometimes the function is aesthetic."
I don't have much use for pure decoration, but when no thought is put into the form, designing for function alone results in bland--or worse--buildings.
Feb 17, 20 8:35 am ·
·
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.
Form follows function' or 'function follows form'
Which approach is effective and efficient in conceptualizing design ideas in architecture: 'form follows function' or 'function follows form'?
The consensus now is that both are very important determinants and are not exclusive. I think the same applies to the form-or-function-first question. Of course we want our buildings to be efficient - structurally, ergonomically and ecologically - and we mostly agree that elegant design generally reflects functionality. But the human brain is much more complex than to simply accept things at face value. We have a need to be inspired by what we find beautiful and inspiring.
Paraphrasing what Subaru once said about the fake hood scoop on their sport-model cars: "Form follows function. Sometimes the function is aesthetic."
I don't have much use for pure decoration, but when no thought is put into the form, designing for function alone results in bland--or worse--buildings.
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.