Form Follows Function

Form Follows Function: The Role of Architectural Thinking

Architecture is often confined to the realm of buildings in the public imagination—the design of homes, offices, and monuments that define the spaces we inhabit. Yet, to truly understand the scope of an architect’s work is to understand that architecture extends far beyond the physical act of building. Architects, by the nature of their training and practice, are not just designers of structures but thinkers who apply a distinct methodology to a vast array of subjects and objects.

The principle of "form follows function" lies at the heart of architectural thinking. Originally coined by the American architect Louis Sullivan, this idea suggests that the shape of an object should be dictated by its intended purpose. However, this principle extends beyond aesthetics and physical form; it embodies a philosophy of problem-solving that prioritises function, context, and human experience. Architects are uniquely positioned to apply this methodology to challenges far removed from the construction site.

“These skills are not limited to designing buildings; they are applicable to almost any problem that demands creative and functional solutions.”

An architect’s role begins with understanding. Before lines are drawn or models built, architects immerse themselves in the needs, constraints, and aspirations of a project. This process requires empathy, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesise complex information into a coherent vision. These skills are not limited to designing buildings; they are applicable to almost any problem that demands creative and functional solutions.

Take urban planning, for example. While cities are made up of buildings, their design involves far more than individual structures. Architects must consider the flow of people and goods, the interaction between public and private spaces, and the environmental impact of their designs. Similarly, architects have contributed to furniture design, branding, digital interfaces, and even organisational structures. Their ability to balance aesthetics, function, and context makes them invaluable in fields that require both creativity and logic.

At its core, architectural thinking is a process of analysis, synthesis, and iteration. It begins with a question: What is the problem we are trying to solve? This question guides every decision, from the macro scale of a building’s orientation to the micro scale of material selection. The methodology involves:

1. Research and Contextual Understanding: Architects examine the context of a project, whether it’s the physical site, cultural significance, or user behaviour. This research phase ensures that the design responds to its environment rather than imposing itself upon it.

2. Concept Development: From this understanding, architects develop a guiding concept—a central idea that informs every aspect of the design. This concept acts as a framework, ensuring coherence and clarity.

3. Iterative Design: Architecture is rarely a linear process. Through sketches, models, and digital simulations, architects refine their ideas, testing and reworking them to find the best solution.

4. Collaboration and Communication: Architectural projects often involve diverse stakeholders, from engineers to clients. Architects act as mediators, translating abstract ideas into tangible solutions that align with the project’s goals.

5. Application Across Disciplines: Architectural methodology is not limited to buildings. It can be applied to:

- Object Design: Architects bring a holistic approach to creating objects that balance form, function, and user interaction.

- Furniture Design: From chairs to tables, architects consider ergonomics, materiality, and the way furniture integrates with spaces.

- Industrial Design: Architects contribute to designing products that are both functional and aesthetically cohesive, considering manufacturing processes and usability.

- Graphic Design and Branding: Just as buildings tell a story through their form, brands communicate through visual language. Architects’ ability to create coherence and hierarchy translates seamlessly into branding and graphic design.

What Subjects and Objects Can This Methodology Be Applied To?

The versatility of architectural thinking lies in its adaptability. While rooted in the built environment, this methodology can be applied to:

- Product Design: Whether it’s a chair, a smartphone, or a piece of packaging, architects bring a holistic approach to product design, considering not only form and function but also how the object interacts with its user and environment.

- Branding and Visual Identity: Just as buildings tell a story through their form, brands communicate through visual language. Architects’ ability to create coherence and hierarchy translates seamlessly into graphic design and branding.

- Systems and Processes: Architectural thinking is inherently systematic. Architects can design workflows, organisational structures, or digital interfaces that are both efficient and intuitive.

- Cultural and Social Projects: From exhibitions to public art installations, architects apply their skills to projects that engage communities and provoke dialogue.

The value of architectural thinking lies in its ability to create meaningful connections. By considering function, form, and context as interconnected elements, architects produce solutions that are not only beautiful but also purposeful. This holistic approach ensures that every project—whether it’s a skyscraper, a logo, or a chair—resonates on multiple levels.

Moreover, architectural thinking fosters innovation. By approaching problems from multiple perspectives, architects often uncover solutions that others might overlook. Their iterative process encourages experimentation, leading to designs that are both creative and pragmatic.

Finally, the value of this methodology lies in its humanism. Architecture is ultimately about people—how they move, interact, and experience the world. By prioritising human needs and behaviours, architects create work that enhances lives, whether it’s through a well-designed home, an efficient interface, or an inspiring public space.

"Form follows function" is more than a design principle; it is a way of thinking that transcends disciplines. Architects, with their unique blend of creativity, logic, and empathy, have the tools to tackle challenges far beyond the realm of buildings. Their methodology—rooted in research, concept development, and iteration—is a powerful framework for solving complex problems in any field.

In a world that increasingly values interdisciplinary thinking, the role of the architect is evolving. No longer confined to construction, architects are becoming pivotal figures in shaping not just spaces but systems, products, and experiences. Their ability to balance form and function, aesthetics and practicality, ensures that their work remains relevant, impactful, and deeply human.