Framework for Design Excellence: Design for Integration
Good design elevates any project, no matter how small, with a thoughtful process that delivers both beauty and function in balance. It is the element that binds all the principles together with a big idea.
- What is the concept or purpose behind this project, and how will the priorities within the nine other principles inform the unique approach to this project?
- How will the project engage the senses and connect people to place?
- What makes the project one that people will fight to preserve?
- What design strategies can provide multiple benefits across the triple bottom line of social, economic, and environmental value?
Focus topics
- Beauty and delight
- Central design and performance concept
- Connections with place, including climate, history, and people
- Integrated design process
If you can do only one (or a few) thing(s):
- Design a building to lift the spirits and delight the senses.
- Design to engage the natural and cultural environment of the place, including the climate, history, and people.
- Use an integrated design process that respects and values multiple viewpoints.
- ZERO-CARBON: Set and articulate operational and embodied carbon goals early in the process and communicate them with the entire team. Check in with team members often to ensure the goals are being integrated throughout the project.
- RESILIENT: Establish resilience goals early in the process and monitor progress throughout the project.
- EQUITABLE: Map, identify, and engage diverse project stakeholders throughout the project’s development. Articulate equity goals early in the process and check in with team members often.
- HEALTHY: Identify human health and well-being goals early in the process and track progress throughout the design process.