Contemporary Design Research Articles

Design Thinking for Architects: A Critique of International Education Models

The appropriateness of teaching design thinking to architecture students in Georgia is discussed. Design thinking is a user-centered method that was developed about 60 years ago and is widely used in almost all areas of design, including architecture. Leading architectural firms embrace design thinking. This method also has many opponents, who complain about the lack of creativity, its collective work, and more. In contrast, advocates of design thinking argue that design thinking approaches do not necessarily limit creativity, and that contemporary architecture has become so complex that specialists of only one field cannot account for everything. It is interesting that the main opposition to this methodology was met in the country where it was born – the USA. As for Georgia, the survey of students conducted by the authors of the article at the International Design School of the Georgian Technical University found that the majority of them have a positive attitude and intend to use design thinking in their future activities.

Human behaviour simulation for promoting usefulness and user-centric values in parametric design

Although contemporary architectural design education adopts the parametric design approach, which involves complex iterations between the arrangement of form components and building performance, this method limits students' exploration of the optimal matches between generated form and the behaviours of prospective users. Therefore, as a solution, this study hypothesises the effects of human behaviour simulation on students' exploration of user-centric values in the parametric design process. This paper compares the self-evaluation scores of 90 undergraduate students before and after simulation. Data were collected during an authentic digital design course that examined shopfront façade prototypes. Statistical analysis and interpretation indicate that simulation better facilitates students' search for matches between initially value-isolated forms, created using a parametric design tool, and useful user-centric values. However, simulation is not relevant for discovering unexpected forms. This study addresses the unknown affordances in simulation when assigning user-related value to form generation that lacks value.

Exploring the Teaching Path of Visual Communication in the Digital Era

The update of artificial intelligence (AI) is triggering the innovation of education concepts, education methods, and education means. This paper takes the impact of contemporary visual communication design on design methods, design means, and presentation methods brought by AI as the starting point; combines the possibilities brought by the characteristics of AI to the teaching mode; integrates and deepens the development of educating mode; and makes AI play a benefit in the educating of visual correspondence design, so as to transform and upgrade to the intelligent teaching of visual communication design.

The Impact of Islamic Thought on Creating Space in the Residence: Case Study of Suhaimi’s and Sibai’s Houses

This study investigates the factors influencing Islamic residence design, with a focus on understanding the cultural, religious, environmental, and socio-economic considerations that shape architectural practices in Islamic communities. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the research examines the interplay between Islamic beliefs, functional requirements, historical heritage, and contemporary design principles in the creation of residential spaces that reflect Islamic values and traditions. Drawing on architectural analysis, case studies and corpus analysis, the study identifies key factors influencing Islamic residence design, including cultural and religious beliefs, functional requirements, climate adaptation, architectural heritage, sustainability, and socio-economic dynamics. The findings highlight the importance of integrating Islamic principles into residential design, engaging with local communities, promoting sustainable practices, preserving architectural heritage, and advancing research and education in the field of Islamic architecture. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of Islamic residence design and provides valuable insights for architects, designers, policymakers, and researchers seeking to create culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate residential environments in Islamic communities.

THE ROLE OF FINE ARTS IN PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY WITHIN INDUSTRIAL AND GRAPHIC DESIGN: A CROSS-DISCIPLINARY APPROACH

In contemporary design discourse, the intersection of fine arts with industrial and graphic design emerges as a pivotal avenue for promoting sustainability. This paper explores the evolving relationship between fine arts and design disciplines, highlighting their collaborative potential in addressing environmental challenges. By adopting a cross-disciplinary approach, it investigates how incorporating principles of fine arts into industrial and graphic design practices can foster sustainable solutions. The paper begins by contextualizing the current environmental crisis and the imperative for sustainable design interventions. It then delves into the fundamental principles of fine arts, emphasizing its emphasis on creativity, expression, and aesthetic sensibility. Through a comparative analysis, it elucidates how these principles can complement the technical aspects of industrial and graphic design to imbue products and visuals with sustainability-driven narratives. Furthermore, the paper examines case studies and examples where fine arts techniques and philosophies have been integrated into design processes to enhance sustainability. These include practices such as upcycling, biomimicry, and eco-conscious visual communication strategies. Additionally, it explores the role of fine arts education in nurturing a mindset that prioritizes environmental stewardship within design professionals. The findings suggest that by embracing a cross-disciplinary approach that embraces fine arts principles, designers can transcend traditional boundaries to create innovative, sustainable solutions. This synthesis of art and design not only enriches the aesthetic appeal of products and visuals but also instills a deeper consciousness of environmental responsibility. Ultimately, this paper advocates for a holistic integration of fine arts within industrial and graphic design practices as a means to promote sustainability in the face of global challenges.
 Keywords: Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Cross-Disciplinary, Industrial, Sustainability, Reviews.

A systematic review of climate change science relevant to Australian design flood estimation

Abstract. In response to flood risk, design flood estimation is a cornerstone of planning, infrastructure design, setting of insurance premiums, and emergency response planning. Under stationary assumptions, flood guidance and the methods used in design flood estimation are firmly established in practice and mature in their theoretical foundations, but under climate change, guidance is still in its infancy. Human-caused climate change is influencing factors that contribute to flood risk such as rainfall extremes and soil moisture, and there is a need for updated flood guidance. However, a barrier to updating flood guidance is the translation of the science into practical application. For example, most science pertaining to historical changes to flood risk focuses on examining trends in annual maximum flood events or the application of non-stationary flood frequency analysis. Although this science is valuable, in practice, design flood estimation focuses on exceedance probabilities much rarer than annual maximum events, such as the 1 % annual exceedance probability event or even rarer, using rainfall-based procedures, at locations where there are few to no observations of streamflow. Here, we perform a systematic review to summarize the state-of-the-art understanding of the impact of climate change on design flood estimation in the Australian context, while also drawing on international literature. In addition, a meta-analysis, whereby results from multiple studies are combined, is conducted for extreme rainfall to provide quantitative estimates of possible future changes. This information is described in the context of contemporary design flood estimation practice to facilitate the inclusion of climate science into design flood estimation practice.

The Influence of Surrealism on Contemporary Design

With the continuous development of the art process, some artistic thoughts have left more and more profound marks in the art history. Surrealism focuses on the study of human subconsciousness, and uses anti-logic and anti-conventional irrational methods to create, which creates artistic creation ideas and broadens artists' design thinking. By analyzing the concept, characteristics and development process of surrealism, this paper aims to realize the anti-logic and unconsciousness of surrealism. At the same time, from the application research of surrealism in contemporary design, the influence of surrealism is further analyzed.

SHOWROOM MOBIL HONDA DENGAN PENERAPAN ARSITEKTUR KONTEMPORER DI KOTA KUALA KAPUAS

The Honda car showroom with the application of contemporary architecture in Kuala Kapuas is a showroom building design that focuses on visual and functional aspects that aim to show the image of Honda products to consumers and meet the needs of car transportation sales facilities in Kuala Kapuas City, especially the Honda brand. This design was motivated by the lack of car transportation sales facilities in Kuala Kapuas and the tips of PT. Honda Trio Raya to continue to provide the best effort in reaching consumers, especially in the Kuala Kapuas area of Central Kalimantan. Contemporary architectural style itself is considered as an architectural style that reflects a quality and novelty, so the concept used to solve this design problem is to apply contemporary architectural principles into the design of the showroom according to the functions and needs of the Honda car showroom itself.

KAWASAN WISATA TEPIAN SUNGAI BUAYA SEBAGAI FASILITAS REKREATIF EDUKATIF KABUPATEN BULUNGAN KALIMANTAN UTARA

According to the Provincial Government of North Kalimantan, it has an area of 13,182 km² with a population of the entire district of 701,814 people (results of the 2020 Indonesian population census). The Crocodile Riverside Tourism Area located in downtown Tanjung Selor Hilir, North Kalimantan. It is planned as a place to visit tourism and take advantage of the potential of fishing villages by improving fishing facilities. The Crocodile Riverside Tourism Area is designed to apply a RecreativeEducational approach. Contextual Architecture is defined as the process of designing a building, which takes into account the existing site conditions. The purpose of the Contemporary Architecture Design for the Tanjung Selor Hilir 2 Riverside Crocodile Tourism Area project in North Kalimantan is planned to apply the Contextual Architecture Approach.

The Phenomenon of Contemporary Architecture in Yoshkar-Ola

The Phenomenon of Contemporary Architecture in Yoshkar-Ola

The interaction of history and modern thought in the creation of Iran's architecture by investigating the approaches of past-oriented architecture

The relationship between tradition and modernity significantly influences society, culture, and architectural discourse. This philosophy offers a framework for exploring the impact of traditional architecture on contemporary Iranian architecture from different perspectives and approaches. Various viewpoints exist on whether historical architecture can be a defining characteristic of contemporary architectural discourse. Through an in-depth review of analysis-centred architectural literature, a unique method was chosen for analysing contemporary architecture and gaining insight into its creation. The main goal of this study is to establish a productive relationship between past-oriented architecture, innovative architectural concepts, and contemporary thought. This article examines three critical viewpoints, tradition as imitation, transmission, and transformation, alongside analysing their influential components on architectural form to gain insight into productively connecting with historical achievements and show that the role of history is to add new values to architecture-conscious needs that have changed during history. Ultimately, the challenge lies in finding a suitable path among diverse perspectives and reinterpretations and establishing a productive relationship with history and contemporary thought.

Optimizing Windcatcher Designs for Effective Passive Cooling Strategies in Vienna’s Urban Environment

Urban overheating, intensified by climate change, poses a critical challenge in Central European cities, witnessing a rise in tropical days. Conventional mechanical cooling systems in buildings significantly contribute to carbon dioxide emissions, exacerbating global warming. In response, windcatchers—traditional Iranian natural cooling systems—emerge as a promising sustainable solution for contemporary architecture, even in non-arid climates. This research aims to evaluate windcatchers’ efficacy in improving building thermal comfort in Central European climates, focusing on Vienna’s urban environment. This study identifies optimal windcatcher designs by analyzing key variables: height variation, inlet dimensions, urban exposure, Building Management System (BMS) temperature thresholds, and integration with an earth tube system using Design Builder simulation software version 6. The findings reveal that a windcatcher standing at 2.5 m tall, with inlet dimensions of 0.9 m by 1.4 m, in an open, less densely populated urban setting, and with open valves when indoor temperatures surpass 22 °C, demonstrates the most effective reduction in cooling load. Moreover, both one-sided and two-sided windcatchers outperform conventional ventilation through openings. Additionally, combining a one-sided windcatcher with an earth tube system ensures efficient cooling even when exterior temperatures exceed 25 degrees Celsius. When augmented by a heat pump, this integrated system can provide heated ventilation.

Evaluating Seismic Performance in Reinforced Concrete Buildings with Complex Shear Walls: A Focus on a Residential Case in Chile

This study employs a non-linear static analysis, known as pushover analysis, to explore the flexural-compressive behavior of complex shear walls within a reinforced concrete (R.C.) structure, adhering to contemporary design standards in Chile. The primary objective is to assess the initiation of damage as the building approaches the limit states outlined in Achisina’s seminal “Performance Based Seismic Design” framework. To achieve this, a sophisticated fiber model, accounting for the confined behavior of concrete derived from the structural elements’ detailing, has been uniformly integrated across the building’s entire height. Furthermore, the analysis incorporates a rigid diaphragm to simulate the R.C. slab’s response accurately. The study implements the N2 method, adjusting for seismic demands in an acceleration-displacement format, which leverages the displacement spectrum defined by Supreme Decree 61, a legislative response to the 8.8 Mw Maule earthquake in 2010. The findings reveal that the analyzed structure meets the immediate occupancy performance level with drifts nearing 5‰ in the symmetrical Y direction. This outcome aligns with prior assessments of Chilean R.C. wall buildings. However, in the asymmetric X direction, the structure exhibits a higher degree of structural damage, aligning with a life safety performance level. This differentiation underscores the critical need for nuanced understanding and modeling of structural behavior under seismic loads, contributing to the ongoing refinement of seismic design practices and standards.

Disassemblability Assessment of Car Parts: Lessons Learned from an Ecodesign Perspective

A conventional vehicle requires more than 50 different metals in its manufacturing, most of which are critical. Given this circumstance, enhancing sustainability from a raw materials perspective requires improvements in the disassemblability of car parts. This enhancement aims to yield metal-rich fractions, enabling the application of effective recycling processes for the recovery of critical metals. This helps avoid the downcycling that occurs in conventional shredding processes. The present study was undertaken to analyze the challenges associated with disassembling components of significant value due to their metal content. The methodology comprises two distinct main stages: an identification of critical car parts and an assessment of disassemblability. The selection of car parts was determined by the criticality of each one through the thermodynamic rarity indicator. Disassemblability was studied experimentally, encompassing three different levels. This classification defines the stages from extracting parts from the vehicle and obtaining recycling fractions in their purest form: ferrous metals, aluminum, non-ferrous metals excluding aluminum, and plastics. This methodology was implemented on two vehicles manufactured by SEAT: SEAT Leon models II and III. As a result, not only was disassemblability information about these car parts collected, but several ecodesign recommendations were also identified as valuable guidance for future designs, specifically aimed at enhancing metals’ recyclability. In conclusion, it must be acknowledged that contemporary vehicle design often prioritizes cost-effective manufacturing processes. However, this approach may compromise the disassemblability and recyclability of the product. The ongoing transition to electric vehicles necessitates a re-evaluation of design principles, particularly from the perspective of the circular economy.

Self-formation of the protective film on mild steel surface in hydrochloric acid medium containing Papaya resin extract

Plant extracts have been considered to be an effective corrosion inhibitor due to their high inhibition performance, huge amount, regeneration, and nature, as well as biological sources. However, several steps in the plant extract processes and extracted solvents are still questionable. Therefore, Papaya resin - extract (PRE) was recommended, produced, and characterized as a mixed-type inhibitor for corrosion of mild steel in 0.1 M hydrochloric acid medium. The results indicated that the 2000 ppm of PRE inhibitor has significant effects on the inhibition efficiency, reaching a remarkable value of 98.08% for mild steel in the investigated solution. The potentiodynamic polarization results showed that the PRE inhibitor acts as a mixed-type inhibitor with a dominant anodic inhibitor for mild steel. Moreover, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and linear polarization resistance results demonstrated that PRE molecules can form protective film, and increase charge transfer and polarization resistances, suggesting the improved steel corrosion resistances. The scanning electron microscope results indicated less occurrence of corrosion on the steel surface exposed to the inhibitor system. Meanwhile, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results demonstrated that PRE’s molecules were absorbed and created reactions with iron products to form a protective film on the steel surface. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics simulation were used to calculate, suggesting that the conjugation effect of two double bonds in PRE’s molecules creates an electron-withdrawing effect on the reactive space around. Moreover, the results revealed the good adhesion and thermal stability of the absorbent protective layer, indicating an agreement with experimental characteristics. Therefore, this result suggests a contemporary design for developing the self-corrosion inhibitor based on natural products with less steps in the synthetic process.

Theoretical Study Regarding the General Stability of Upper Chords of Truss Bridges as Beams on Continuous or Discrete Elastic Supports

New or in-service truss bridges, with or without upper bracing systems, may display instability phenomena such as general lateral torsional buckling of the upper chord. The buckling of structural elements, particularly in the case of steel bridges, can be associated with the risk of collapse or temporary/permanent withdrawal from service. Such incidents have occurred in the case of several bridges in different countries: the collapse of the Dee bridge with truss girders in 1847 in Cheshire, England; the collapse of the semi-parabolic truss girder bridge near Ljubičevo over the Morava River in Serbia in 1892; the collapse of the Dysart bridge in Cambria County, Pennsylvania in 2007; the collapse of the Chauras bridge in Uttarakhand, India in 2012; and the collapse of a bridge in Nova Scotia, Canada (2020), and such examples may continue. Buckling poses a significant danger as it often occurs at lower load values compared to those considered during the design phase. Additionally, this phenomenon can manifest suddenly, without prior warning, rendering intervention for its prevention impossible or futile. In contemporary times, most research and design calculation software offer the capability to establish preliminary values for buckling loads, even for highly intricate structures. This is typically achieved through linear eigenvalue buckling analyses, often followed by significantly more complex large displacement nonlinear analyses. However, interpreting the results for complex bridge structures can be challenging, and their accuracy is difficult to ascertain. Consequently, this paper aims to introduce an original method for a more straightforward estimation of the buckling load of the upper chord in steel truss bridges. This method utilizes the theory of beams on discrete elastic supports. The buckling load of the upper chord was determined using both the finite element method and the proposed methodology, yielding highly consistent results.

Upcycling Classics—Sustainable Design Development through Fabric Manipulation Techniques in Fashion Design Education

AbstractAs the sustainable fashion movement gains momentum, there is a growing need to introduce such concepts to the next generation of fashion designer. One approach to produce sustainable designs is upcycling, defined as the salvage and reuse of discarded or found items into new products. This study examines a pedagogical approach for engaging 2nd year undergraduate textile and fashion design students in sustainable fashion design practice. Working in groups, students are challenged to upcycle old clothing into a little black dress, using a keyword as direction for concept, design development, and garment construction techniques. To elevate value in post‐consumer textile waste, it is necessary to develop high‐quality contemporary design outcomes. This teaching approach aims to encourage the revaluation of recyclable resources, the exploration of the creative potential of fabric manipulation techniques, experimental design development, and professional production techniques. This is achieved through the implementation of a design brief that establishes original approaches to upcycling, contrary to the arbitrary processes that are typically used.

The Impact of Mathematical Logic and Philosophy in Contemporary Architecture

The Impact of Mathematical Logic and Philosophy in Contemporary Architecture

Application of Bronze Drum Culture Gene Extraction in Product Design

The bronze drum stands as a profound testament to the rich historical and cultural tapestry of China's diverse ethnic minorities. Beyond being a mere artifact, it serves as an intricate art form that harmoniously melds manufacturing, craftsmanship, music, and dance. With its exceptional historical significance, the bronze drum is rightfully recognized as an intangible cultural heritage, embodying a legacy that transcends time. This article centers its focus on traditional bronze drums, specifically honing in on samples representing eight distinct types from the Zhuang people in Guangxi. Employing pattern induction and the semantic induction method, the research investigates the psychological perception and cognition of Guangxi Zhuang Bronze Drums. The research methodology employed is comprehensive and structured, involving a meticulous process: initially gathering data from various channels about bronze drums, subsequently delving into the nuanced historical and cultural backdrop, and meticulously exploring the artistic characteristics inherent in these remarkable instruments. Further enhancing the analysis, spectrum analysis is utilized to discern the intricate patterns and semantics of bronze drums, paving the way for a nuanced understanding of their characteristics. Building on this foundation, the article proposes a thoughtful redesign of the characteristic genes, offering a bridge between tradition and contemporary design. The research seamlessly intertwines genetic knowledge of bronze drum culture, systematically extracting the cultural genes embedded within the elaborate patterns. Practical examples are judiciously employed to underscore the feasibility and efficacy of these cultural genes, presenting a wellspring of inspiration for emerging designers. Beyond the realms of mere product development, the cultural gene theory propounded in this research opens new vistas for the inheritance and application of traditional bronze drums in design. This infusion of fresh perspectives not only renders contemporary design more personalized and humane but also significantly enhances the artistic depth and cultural resonance of design in our daily lives.

Erosion and Resurgence of Biohiphilia in the Evolution of Yoruba Architecture

The concept of biophilia in architecture promotes features such as plants, water, light, and materials to increase occupant health and well-being while also fostering a connection with nature. In traditional Yoruba architecture, the buildings and cities were a continuum with the environment and all the construction materials completely sourced from the immediate environment. The evolution of Yoruba architecture into more attritive forms and spaces arising from acculturation of foreign architectures gave rise to less biophilic features. This presentation explores the extent to which the indigenous traditions have yielded towards absolute social-cultural functionalism to the detriment of conservation and bio-sustainability in modern environmental development in primarily Yoruba-speaking areas of southwest Nigeria. Information and data for the investigation were obtained from literature on biophilic designs and indigenous Yoruba architecture. The findings from the research indicate that there were no inclinations in the contemporary indigenous architecture of the Yoruba to bring back the elements of the environment into its building forms until the proponents of sustainability and greening gained prominence. The urban forms fare better due to the efforts of landscape and urban designers. The paper concludes that the proponents of indigenous architecture who are presently premising their advocacy on heritage preservation and urban tourism should include the advantages of biophilic architecture which was present in the Yoruba traditional architecture in their discourses.