In the field of architecture, the concept is essentially the idea, thought, or concept that forms the basis and foundation of a design project and drives it forward. This force gradually transforms into the power and essential identity behind the progress of projects, continuously examined throughout all stages of its development. All architectural projects must derive from a concept.
Given the primary characteristic of the concept, which is expressing the meaning of the design, and the fact that individuals can have different interpretations of various topics, concepts can have the following meanings:
1. Comparative Meaning: The comparative concept implies taking patterns from features found in other designs in the field of architecture, which can assist architects in conceptual design. This feature allows a look at other things to be read through this property.
2. Metaphorical or Analogical Meaning: This concept, which is synonymous with abstraction, means drawing inspiration from a specific object or event to refer to its prominent feature. In other words, you are trying to evoke a specific concept by designing with inspiration from something. The metaphorical nature of this concept also refers to the fact that by bringing your design closer to the characteristics of an object, you can express a conceptual similarity between them.
3. Essential Concept: This concept in architecture, known as looking beyond the program’s needs, emphasizes that the mere construction and placement of materials are not important. The essence and soul of the structure are also of great importance in design. This concept receives more attention in interior decoration due to the significant impact of space.
4. Idealistic Concept: This concept, also known as looking at absolute values, focuses solely on the idea and architectural values. The architect can incorporate their entire perfectionism into the design and execution of the concept. The concept in architecture refers to the different meanings of the subject, indicating the basis on which the design will proceed and the databases on which the working process will be based.
Creativity vs. Conceptual Design
Creativity and conceptual designs with rich meanings are two entirely different discussions. Creative design emanates from a prepared mind—one that is constantly exchanging information with the environment, familiar with the works of giants in the field, examining both new and old designs, and consistently critiquing and analyzing. This prepared mind is ready to present creative designs inspired either by past works or in an entirely innovative form. On the other hand, the discussion of conceptual design is a separate concept, and creative works, regardless of the internal concept, can simply be responses to the design context.