questionnaire for architecture case study

Architecture Student Chronicles

How to conduct a Case Study?

When students begin studying  Architecture at a University, the first thing that they are supposed to become excellent at, is doing a documentation or a case study . It could be a case study of a small village, town, a villa, a bus-stop, or a high-rise commercial or residential building. A case study is an in-depth investigation of a single individual, group, incident, or community. Other ways include experiments, surveys , or analysis of archival information

What is the purpose of conducting a Case Study?

As the term Case Study suggests, it is the study of a particular case that is similar to your topic of design project. Doing a case study will help you understand the various aspects that you have to consider while designing.

Literature Case study

Before you start with your live case studies, first of all do a complete literature case study. Literature case study consists of reading everything you can find on the subject. You can refer books in a library, use Google to look up research papers, check out Standard Code books and statutory laws or from technical journals.

A literature case study would give you a vague idea about your topic. There will be various questions arising in your mind after you are done with your literature case study. To find the answers to those questions, you will have to go for minimum two live case studies….

Always possibly go for more than two different case studies, because a comparative case study of two or more different cases is very important and helpful.

• While you are doing your first case study, say a Villa, go for a smaller Villa first so that you can figure out the basic minimum requirements.
• In your second case study, go for an extremely lavish Villa so that you are aware of the maximum requirements you could give.

(Being able to provide maximum or minimum requirements in your design is very important)

If there are some requirements that you haven’t come across while doing your case studies but you went through it while you were doing a literature case study, then try implementing those requirements  in your design.

Eleven most important things to analyze in any Case Study

• Environment and micro-climate Analyzing the surrounding environment and the micro-climate of that place will help understand the reason of the orientation of the structure, the kind of roof chosen and the materials used in its construction.
• User behavior and requirements Studying the functioning of a particular place, say a Hospital, is very important; without which you will not be able to figure out the requirements and the area that should be allotted for each of the requirements.Talking to people working at that place (Hospital), will help you figure out if the requirements that are provided are adequate and he area that is allotted is sufficient for its efficient working.
• Utility and space enhancement Study of Utilitarian facilities of a particular case is also important. Various measures taken to enhance a particular space should be analyzed.
• Form and Function Analyzing the reason behind the form of that particular building…and how it merges with the surrounding environment. Form and Function go hand in hand. The form of the building should be able to convey the function of the building. A lot of Architects say “Form follows Function”.As an example, an institutional building should not end up looking like a museum or a disco.Some other Architects might disagree with that philosophy. They’d say that the function of a structure keeps changing but changing the form of the building everytime its function changes is not possible. They say, Adopt a “Universal Design Scheme”.
• Horizontal and vertical circulation Horizontal circulation consists of elements such as the corridors and lobbies. Vertical circulation includes elevators, staircases, ramps etc. The efficiency of the placement of these services should be analyzed.
• Site Planning and Landscape detailing Refer to the Article on the blog “ A Guide to Site Planning “, which deals with different aspects considered in site planning in greater detail.
• Structural details such as Column and Beam Design, Steel  and Composite structures Understanding and analyzing the structural details is also important. For example, large span structures such as Auditoriums use trusses or heavy I-section steel beams and sometimes shell-roofing that involve construction of Ring beams whereas in small span structures, RCC construction is used.
• Building Services such as Fire Alarm system, HVAC, Water supply systems The working of Fire Alarm system, HVAC and Water supply systems should be examined and their space requirements are to be analyzed.
• Design detailing considering the Barrier-free environment Implementation of the Barrier-free architecture for comfortable access to disabled people. Most public buildings have mandatory accessibility systems for the disabled. Check out Guidelines to the Disability Standards for Access to Premises 200X. (Australian law)
• Socio-economic profile of user group It might also be important to find out the socio-economic profile of the people using the services so as to determine their requirements and available resources.
• Parking details and standards Measure the allotted parking area on site, say for ten cars, then calculate the average area for each car and compare it with the areas specified in TSS (Time Savers Standards).

Conducting a case study is hard work. Sometimes, it is so small, it could be done in days, but on other occasions, it takes weeks to document and compile all the data. It involves going on-site, meeting and taking to people, lots of traveling, plenty of photography, and some fun. It is the most important of assignments you might get as an architectural students.

This is where you learn from reality, actual stuff, as opposed to only theoretical knowledge. When I was learning law I took every chance I could get to learn from people actually doing the work I was aiming for, yes I did “donate” many hours to Winters & Yonker, P.A. , but in the end is was worth every minute. Looking at places first hand  and documenting information would give you many insights and ideas and let you peek into the minds of professional architects and designers who have used years of experience and improvisation to design and create incredible structures.

Case studies of some of the famous Structures mentioned below:

 SPA – Delhi

VNIT – Nagpur

Thiagaraj Convention Center

TKM College of Engineering (Chennai)

42 thoughts on “How to conduct a Case Study?”

We want to design an oldage home how u can help

You live in Delhi and I am in Hyderabad, so I might not be of much help, unless you want my father (Architect Javed – http://www.architectjaved.com/ ) to design it for you.

If you want more info on Old age homes, see http://architecture-student.com/design-guide/guide-to-designing-old-age-homes/

The hardest part is looking for related literature especially when your research topic is new. It may be that difficult but it is surely unique when done and published.

I’m an attorney and when studying law we spent the bulk of the time reading what is called caselaw which is existing decisions that forms our law. We are to find cases that support our clients’ fact scenario so that the decision is our clients’ favour.

The parallel with architecture is uncanny as architects use existing structures and environments to form the basis for a new project. As the saying goes, “no need to reinvent the wheel” but it’s good to evolve from existing structures. Likewise, the law evolves.

Case Study is itself a very necessary work to be done before appearing to anything to be done. It’s just a sample report before appearing for any cases to get it solved properly.

A good blog to read on and to be shared amongst all…..

For me, Case Study is really important on anything you are planning in order to have a well planned and a successful outcome. Doing a Case Study on anything gives you an idea for the pro’s and con’s of that. I’m glad there’s such an article like this!

Case studies are a great way to plan lots of things, not just architectural projects. It’s almost like doing the work without actually doing the work, so you can identify sticking points, potential problems and lots more.

thank you that really helped….!! im a first year b.arch student….

Hello Nanda, We are glad our site has been of help to you. Do keep visiting. We wish you all the best for your future!

will do 🙂 thanku 🙂

it’s really helpful!! thx a lot!

i am beginning my thesis in B. arch. n so m requiring a hypothetical site of about 3 acres here in india with the climate warm and humid. topic is performing arts centre in kerala. how do i find and fix a hypothetical site?

Hello Resbi, The best way to find an appropriate site for your project could be done by using Google Earth.

i would like to know the steps and what case studies to do about for a multispeciality hospital

As im in 2nd year of b.arch

I have not much studed about much detailed

Like casestudy,site analysis’

It will help me

Thanks u again

U can see our 1st year architecture 1st month exibition video on youtube

hi !!!I’m a 1st year b.arch and v hav 2 do a case study on an architect’s firm . cud u tell me wat all i shud include in my case study???v hav to do a case study on a bungalow also…

Hello Joan,

The following links will be of help to you.

Guide for conducting a casestudy for a villa

Also check out: Cafeteria Design

i am a first year b.arch student..i have got a case study to do..can u please guide me by teling how many sheets should i present..please guide me..as soon as posible..ur site helpd me to knw how to do case study but i also want to know how many sheets should it include..please guide me..

tanx for this good work.pls do continue.

Number of sheets doesn’t matter until you pin down your inferences correctly …… for a first year student i guess a max of 1 or 2 A1 sheets or a ppt of less than 20 slides should be enough in terms of quantity …. make sure you put the point across 🙂 🙂

This was really helpful. Thank you very much. Just about to go for a case study on 2 schools.

What r all things I should see for bedroom attached bathroom casestudy.

Thank you for some other wonderful article. The place else could anyone get that type of information in such an ideal manner of writing? I’ve a presentation next week, and I am on the search for such information.

this really helped alot Thankyou

love your articles ,wld love to b part of this, was just surfing the net and found this…….good work to u guys

Hey, this really helped I’m goin for a case study on resorts tmrw Would appreciate any pointers to observe there thanq ????

hello,i am second year b.arch student,i have to do case study on luxury primary school . cud you please tell me what all should i include in my case study ???and also case study for the kids school…………

For a project like that, you should visit a minimum of two schools. One would be a high profile school and the other one could be a private low budget school or a government school. After you casestudies you will be able to draw comparisons between the two and that should help you come up with your list of requirements. let me know if you have any other questions.

I am doing by 3rd year b arch n this time our project is based on housing for artist Wht all shld I keep in mind while designing for artist n der family member who are non artist

Hello Monisha, I recommend you to read this article: http://architecture-student.com/case-studies/design-of-an-artist%E2%80%99s-house-guide-for-conducting-a-casestudy-of-a-villa/

Nice bolg. Thank you. I am barch student. I would like to know how to do comparison study of any two building. Now I have done with case study of a gallery (ngma Bangalore). I have done sub case study as well as literature study. But I want to know how exactly should I do comparitive study. More than write up comparison, How well can I present it

I am doing thesis on Orphan children and oldage home combining both generations together so as to create marvelous socially conceptual design. Help me with bestest case study from which I can learn alot to create spaces for both.

I am final year in srm rampuram school od architecture and doing thesis on township. So could anyone help with sum reference for case study and literature study as soon as possible

Hello Revathy,

When you say township… what kind of township. Give us some description of your thesis project so that we could give suggestions as to how you could proceed.

thanks a lot it is great information has answered some of my questions

hello.i have taken up the topic EMBASSY(any country) Design for my final year thesis. i was wondering if you could help me out with the plans for casestudies,since i hear it will be quite a problem with all the security.

It is not an excellent topic for design. You should have chosen something that would let you explore your ideas. Embassy building would look like a commercial block…nothing interesting… this is not something people havent seen. I do not think you will get permission for a livecasestudy of any embassy. No one would let you in. So if you still have time, i would suggest you choose a more design oriented topic.

hey i am doing thesis on low cost building materials and technology.i wanna do commercial project on this topic. can you suggest me project name or case study on this topic.

I have taken service apartment complex for tourist as my final year thesis. Help me to find the best case study for thesis.

Hello. Im studying b.arch 4th year. Im supposed to do a thesis case study, on Automobile industry i.e a car manufacturing plant. Can you please help me regarding this, as what all i should include and what steps i need to follow to complete my case study. Please reply me asap. Thank you.

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Architecture

How To Do A Case Study Architecture

Study design process.

Studying the architecture of a building through a case study requires an organized and structured approach for it to be successful. The design process should begin with preparation that includes researching the building being studied and the contextual environment around it. This should be followed by developing a clear perception of the design approach to be adopted and a statement of the project’s intentions. In the beginning phase of research, multiple persons should be consulted and data relating to the building should be gathered. This includes topographical and site maps, archive material surrounding the building and photographs to capture the existing fabric of the building. Evidence of the building’s function and people’s experiences should also be obtained.

preparing fieldwork

Fieldwork should be undertaken in which the architect compares what they have imaginatively developed during the preparatory phase with an on-site study of the building. The on-site visits should be planned beforehand to include an exploration of the building’s internal configuration and external setting. During the visits, physical measurements should be taken as evidence to support the case study analysis. The fieldwork phase should be concluded by preparing a series of sketches, diagrams and plans to be used to discuss the architect’s findings.

Analysis of Site

The data and findings obtained during the preparatory and fieldwork phases should be analyzed to produce an overall review of the building design. By this stage, the architect should have devised a physical investigation of the building that supports the aims and objectives of their study. The analysis should begin with a thorough study of the building’s immediate context and environment, which should include an understanding of its overall shape, orientation and materials used. There should be a detailed investigation into the building functions, which can be assisted through observation and interviews being conducted with the occupants. After conducting the analysis of the building site, the architecture can be compared to historical buildings of its kind to review the changes taken place in the design of such buildings over time.

Design Assignment

Once the analysis of the building is completed, the design assignment should be established. This should involve evaluating the existing design and discovering what design objectives have been achieved. In this phase, the architect should identify any design errors or deficiencies and develop solutions for them. Here, a creative approach should be adopted to resolve design issues and a process should be set out which shows the chosen design/ solution and why it is effective.

Presentation

After completing the analysis and design, the architect should prepare the final presentation of the findings. This should include an effective visual representation along with complete descriptions and background of the building. The presentation should tell the complete story of the case study architecture in a way that effectively communicates the process and objectives of the study.

referencing Sources

When concluding the case study, all the sources consulted should be accurately referenced. This should be done both within the presentation and written evidence gathered. Sources must be referenced to ensure that the research has been conducted in an ethical, accurate and comprehensive manner.

Record Keeping

After preparing the presentation and referencing sources, the architect should keep consistent record and archival of all findings, work and materials. This should include photographs, plans, drawings, notes and other data gathered for the case study. This record is important for future reference and adds accuracy and value to the work.

Understanding the Brief

It is essential for architects when undertaking a case study of architecture to thoroughly understand the brief/ purpose of the study that is set out from the outset. Having a clear purpose has been set out before the research begins is key to successful handling of the case study. Understanding the scope and extent of the design project is crucial to the success, as it sets out the expectations and parameters within which the study will be conducted.

Building Regulations

Adhering to building regulations should always be at the forefront of any case study of architecture. Architects must always be aware of local building codes and national regulations that may need to be observed while constructing and renovating any property. As such, when conducting a case study, any design/ renovations proposed should be checked against the applicable regulations to ensure that they are compliant.

Budget Planning

Another aspect to consider when undertaking a case study of architecture is cost and budgeting. While studying the building, the architect should consider the cost implications of any changes made to the design. This could include both the cost of materials and the time taken to complete the project. Being aware of the cost implications of any proposed changes allow the architect to assess their feasibility and provide an overall economic review of the case study.

Legal Responsibility

It is important to bear in mind when undertaking a case study of architecture that architects are not only responsible for the design, but are also responsible for any legal and contractual issues. Thus, it is essential that any proposed changes within the case study should be checked against any relevant contracts or regulations before they are implemented. This will ensure that the architect is legally protected and that any proposed changes are not in breach of any existing legal obligations.

Communication Skills

Communication is key when it comes to successful case studies of architecture. It is essential that architects maintain a constant dialogue with clients in order to ensure that their expectations are met and that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Establishing a clear understanding of the client’s expectations and needs is key to success when conducting the case study and will allow for a smoother process.

Anita Johnson

Anita Johnson is an award-winning author and editor with over 15 years of experience in the fields of architecture, design, and urbanism. She has contributed articles and reviews to a variety of print and online publications on topics related to culture, art, architecture, and design from the late 19th century to the present day. Johnson's deep interest in these topics has informed both her writing and curatorial practice as she seeks to connect readers to the built environment around them.

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Case studies.

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A case study is a research strategy that uses "an empirical inquiry that investigates a phenomenon or setting" in its real life context. (Adapted from Groat, Architectural Research Methods , 346).

Check out these books from the library for further guidance on case studies:

• Flyvbjerg, Bent. "Five Misunderstandings About Case Study Research." Qualitative Inquiry, 12, no. 2 (April 2006): 219-245.

• Last Updated: Oct 5, 2023 8:40 AM
• URL: https://guides.lib.utexas.edu/architecture

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Thesis Research in Architecture: Research methods

• Get started
• Finding theses
• Literature reviews
• Research methods
• Primary Sources

Unless noted, books listed here are located in the Musagetes Architecture Library.

Architectural and design research

• Architectural Ethnography Call Number: NA2543.S6 A73x 2018
• Architectural Research Methods Call Number: NA2000 .G76 2013
• Architectural Technology: Research and Practice (ebook)
• The Changing Shape of Architecture: Further Cases of Integrating Research and Design in Practice Call Number: NA1995 .C42 2019
• Design + Anthropology: Converging Pathways in Anthropology and Design Call Number: NK1520 .M55 2018
• Design Anthropology: Object Cultures in Transition Call Number: NK1520 .D458 2017
• Design Informed: Driving Innovation with Evidence-Based Design (ebook)
• Design Justice: Community-Led Practices to Build the Worlds We Need (ebook)
• Discursive Design: Critical, Speculative, and Alternative Things (ebook)
• Ethnography for Designers Call Number: NA2543.S6 C74
• Exploring: Research-Driven Building Design Call Number: NA2000 .E98x 2019
• Inquiry by Design: Environment/Behavior/ Neuroscience in Architecture, Interiors, Landscape, and Planning Call Number: BF353 .Z44 2005
• Landscape Architecture Research: Inquiry, Strategy, Design Call Number: SB469.4 .D46 2011
• Making Homes: Ethnography and Design Call Number: GT170 .P56 2017
• Practice-Based Design Research (ebook)
• Reading Architecture and Culture: Researching Buildings, Spaces, and Documents Call Number: NA2560 .R38 2012
• Refractions: Artistic Research in Architecture Call Number: NA2000 .H68x 2016 (also available temporary as ebook through HaitiTrust)
• Research in Landscape Architecture: Methods and Methodology Call Number: SB469.4 .R47 2017
• Research Methodology in the Built Environment Call Number: NA2000 .R48 2016
• Research Methods and Techniques in Architecture Call Number: NA2000 .N5413 2018
• Research Methods for Architecture Call Number: NA2000 .L83x 2016
• Routledge Companion to Design Research Call Number: NK1520 .R68 2015 (also available temporary as ebook through HaitiTrust)
• Routledge Handbook of Planning Research Methods (ebook)
• Spatializing Culture: The Ethnography of Space and Place (ebook)
• Visual Research Methods in Design (also a temporary ebook) Call Number: NA2750 .S25 1991

"Fieldwork can mean the data collection stage of a project (particularly in the qualitative tradition); or how researchers go about collecting data; or more narrowly, data collection in a social setting that tries to reflect the naturally occurring order of events and subjective meanings of those being studied." 1

• Being There: The Fieldwork Encounter and the Making of Truth (ebook)
• The Charrette Handbook: The Essential Guide for Accelerated, Collaborative Community Planning Call Number: HT167 .N33x 2006 (Dana Porter Library)
• Constructing the Field: Ethnographic Fieldwork in the Contemporary World (ebook)
• The Design Charrette: Ways to Envision Sustainable Futures (ebook)
• Development Fieldwork: A Practical Guide (ebook)
• A Handbook for Social Science Field Research: Essays & Bibliographic Sources on Research Design and Methods (ebook)

Research Methods (general)

• Basics of Qualitative Research: Techniques and Procedures for Developing Grounded Theory (ebook)
• The Craft of Research Call Number: Q180.55.M4 B66 2016 (Dana Porter and Milton Good libraries) (also available temporary as ebook through HaitiTrust)
• Doing Qualitative Research Call Number: H62 .S472 2013 (Davis Centre Library)
• Introducing Quantitative methods: A practical Guide Call Number: H62 .A4275x 2019 (Dana Porter Library)
• Oxford Handbook of Multimethod and Mixed Methods Research Inquiry (ebook)
• Practicing Ethnography: A Student Guide to Method and Methodology (ebook)
• Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches Call Number: H62 .C6963 2018 (Dana Porter and St. Jerome's libraries)
• The SAGE Handbook of Online Research Methods (ebook)
• The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Geography Call Number: GF21 .S233 2010 (Dana Porter Library)
• The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research Call Number: H62 .H2455 2011 (Dana Porter and Lusi Wong libraries)
• The SAGE Handbook of Quantitative Methodology for the Social Sciences (ebook)
• SAGE Quantitative Research Methods (ebook)
• Salsa Dancing into the Social Sciences: Research in an Age of Info-Glut Call Number: H62 .L7995 2008 (Dana Porter Library)

Case Studies

Where can you find case studies?

• Case studies are often published in  journal articles , so consult the  journals listed  in Architecture Research Guide , and search for articles using the Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals .
• Some case studies are presented as  conference papers , which are sometimes published as part of conference proceedings, as well as in journals.
• Look for projects that have received formal recognition; awards announcements will usually provide details about a project that may be helpful to you. These announcements are sometimes published in journals, as well as on the web sites of the organizations making the awards.
• You can also try searching for  Case studies  as a subject combining other key words or subject headings, and/or filtering by library to only include books from Musagetes. Please keep in mind that this will exclude a lot of sources that are not formally considered to be case studies

Case Study Methodology

• Case Studies: Case-Based Research (ebook)
• The Case Study as Research Method: A Practical Handbook (ebook)
• Case Study Research: Design and Methods (temporary ebook)
• Case Study Research: Principles and Practices (ebook)
• Qualitative Research Through Case Studies (ebook)

Case Study Sources

• 20/20 Visions: Collaborative Planning and Placemaking Call Number: HT166 .C253x 2018
• Architecture Against the Post-Political: Essays in Reclaiming the Critical Project Call Number: NA2500 .A7129 2014
• Creative Placemaking: Research, Theory and Practice (ebook)
• Research Methodology in the Built Environment: A Selection of Case Studies Call Number: NA2000 .R48 2016
• Sustainability, Energy and Architecture: Case Studies in Realizing Green Buildings (ebook)
• Sustainable Housing Reconstruction: Designing Resilient Housing after Natural disasters Call Number: HV554.5 .C43 2015

Writing and presenting your research

• The Dissertation: A Guide for Architecture Students Call Number: NA2108 .B67 2006
• Presenting Your Research: Conferences, Symposiums, Poster Presentations and Beyond (ebook)
• Architect's Guide to Writing: For Design and Construction Professionals Call Number: NA2540 .S36x 2014

Social Justice and Critical Research Methods

• Data Feminism (ebook)
• Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples (ebook)
• Decolonizing Research: Indigenous Storywork as Methodology Call Number: GN378 .D43 2019 (Dana Porter Library)
• Doing Respectful Research: Power, Privilege and Passion Call Number: GN345 .T54 2016 (Dana Porter Library)
• Experience, Research, Social Change: Critical Methods (ebook)
• Fostering Social Justice Through Qualitative Inquiry: A Methodological Guide (ebook)
• Indigenous Research: Theories, Practices, and Relationships (ebook)
• Indigenous Statistics: A Quantitative Research Methodology (ebook)
• Other, Please Specify: Queer Methods in Sociology Call Number: HQ76.25 .O84 2018
• Queer Methods and Methodologies: Intersecting Queer Theories and Social Science Research Call Number: HQ76.25 .Q44 2016
• Research as Resistance: Revisiting Critical, Indigenous, and Anti-Oppressive Approaches (ebook)
• The Responsible Methodologist: Inquiry, Truth-Telling, and Social Justice Call Number: BD241 .K827 2015 (Dana Porter Library)

Interviews and Surveys

Doing interviews, focus groups, or surveys? See the University of Waterloo's  Office of Research Ethics  requirements for research with human participants .

• Collective Memory Work: A Methodology for Learning with, and from Lived Experience (ebook)
• Interviewing for Social Scientists: An Introductory Resource with Examples (ebook)
• Learning From Strangers: The Art and Method of Qualitative Interview Studies (temporary ebook) Call Number: HN29 .W42 1994 (Davis Centre Library) (also available temporary as ebook through HaitiTrust)
• Qualitative Interviewing: The Art of Hearing Data Call Number: H62 .R737 2005 (Dana Porter Library) (also available temporary as ebook through HaitiTrust)
• Reflective Interviewing: A Guide to Theory and Practice (ebook)
• The SAGE Handbook of Interview Research: The Complexity of the Craft Call Number: H61.28 .H36 2012 (Dana Porter Library)

Focus Groups

• Doing Focus Groups (ebook)
• Focus Group Discussions Call Number: H61.28 .H45 2014 (Dana Porter Library)
• Focus Groups: Theory and Practice (ebook)
• Constructing Survey Data: An Interactional Approach Call Number: HA31.2 .G63x 2014 (Dana Porter Library)
• Design, Evaluation, and Analysis of Questionnaires for Survey Research (ebook)
• Handbook of Survey Methodology for the Social Sciences (ebook)
• The SAGE Handbook of Survey Methodology (ebook)

1. Geoff Payne, and Judy Payne, Key Concepts in Social Research (London ; Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, 2004), 94.

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CASE STUDY AS A TOOL FOR ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH

Research has been part of human activity as man remains an inquisitive animal. So many methods are employed in the field of research which case study is one of them. Case studies are widely used in most professions, including medicine, law, engineering, business, planning and architecture. The use of case study as a method of inquiry is becoming increasingly common in the study and practice of architecture. The primary body of knowledge in architecture is built up through written and visual documentation of projects. It is imperative for architects to think about case study research within a performance-based framework that links design decision to measurable outcome. Therefore, this paper shall reveal information on how to conduct a facility-based case study that will yield useful information for architectural study and practice. The objective of this paper is to argue for a standardized approach for case studies, present a framework and methodology providing guidance on how to conduct case studies. A desired end goal of case study research is to develop a framework of facility database that could be used to inform the development of design guidelines and provide necessary information for study and best practice.

Related Papers

In Flux: Design education in a changing world (Proceedings of the 5th International DEFSA Conference, 3-5 October 2007, Cape Town, South Africa, ISBN 978-0-620-39561-8), cd-rom.

Mike Christenson

This paper describes the results of an academic assignment given to a group of undergraduate architectural design students, in which each student was required to conduct research and compose case-study reports on selected works of architecture to support individual identification of each of these works as “good”, “bad”, or “ugly”. Each student was free to select whichever works of architecture they wished as subjects for their research, and to illustrate these works by whatever means they found appropriate. Each student selected several buildings as examples, and each student composed a multi-page illustrated and written report summarizing their research and concluding with specific attributions for each selected work.

Bob Giddings

This Research Roadmap aims to establish the principal issues in Architectural Design and Management. It is an advance for architectural research to be organised in this way; and addresses six themes: Conceptual Framework State of the Art Future Scenario Development Strategy Research Contribution Research Agenda It sets out the scope for research and innovation, and suggests how this may receive more prominence on the international stage.

Mirjana Devetakovic

Abstract In this paper the authors discuss challenging interrelations between the contemporary architectural practice and the expanding facility management (FM) sector. After defining FM and determining the part of it that is directly dependent on an architectural expertise, the authors identify possible interests in combining knowledge between the two fields, both dealing with the built environment. The empirical part of the research is a study of the current development of FM concepts and strategies in Serbia, and examination of the position and a possible impact of the local architectural practice. A systematization of local real-estate from the point of FM includes three different groups of objects: the ones with integrated FM strategy in the early design stage; the ones with imported FM strategy from international firms; and the last incomparably largest group of objects that esperately need an appropriate FM concept. The methodology of tracking the FM related knowledge has been applied with the aim to recognize key actors in the FM knowledge exchange on the national level, as well as to understand current position and propose possible activities for the local architectural community. Keywords: Facility management, architectural practice, Serbia Citation: Devetakovic, Mirjana, and Radojevic, Milan. "Facility Management: A Paradigm for Expanding the Scope of Architectural Practice," in ArchNet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research, vol. 1, issue 3 (2007).

European Journal of Engineering and Formal Sciences

Leyda Sarmiento

Renewable Energy

Dean Hawkes

e-Design in …

Danniel Roumian

Peter Andreas Sattrup

As Architectural Research is in the process of re-establishing itself as a research discipline according to university standards, it may appear as if the pool of knowledge generated by more than three millennia of experimental research and its internal systems of evaluation are being grossly devalued and colonized by attitudes to research that are imported or even imposed from the outside. Does architectural research have to rely on imported theory from philosophy, the social or the natural sciences in order to meet societal acceptance of its relevance? What constitutes architectural research as a particular research discipline, what are its main characteristics and how can its paradigms, methodologies, strategies and tactics be described? What should be essential aspects of doctoral curriculae in architecture? Discussing Groat and Wang’s Architectural Research Methods in the light of Reflected Practice, and Organizational Knowledge Creation, a framework is presented that includes e...

Rapit Suvanajata

ARbD (book of Abstracts)

João D E V E R N A Bilstein

Research by design is a broader concept that includes “practice-based research” and “practice-led research” which means that we are talking about two kinds of methodologies of research: one involves research through practice and the other involves research about practice. The difference is methodological, because one is research where the inquiry is leading to new understandings about and within the processes of design conception while the other is research about something that does not yet exist and which uses architectural practice as the research method. In terms of the general concept of architectural research, this conference adopts the definition given in the EAAE Research Charter (2012), which we helped to develop: “Architectural research is original investigation undertaken in order to generate knowledge, insights and understanding based on competences, methods and tools proper to the discipline of architecture. It has its own particular knowledge base, mode, scope, tactics and strategies.” And in turn, research by design is defined as “any kind of inquiry in which (…) the architectural design process forms the pathway through which new insights, knowledge, practices or products come into being. It generates critical inquiry through design work.”

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Architecture, Interiors, Styles, Spaces, Stories

How Architecture Case Study Can Benefit Students

As an architecture student, how often do you take delight in doing architectural case studies? Does it excite you or make you frazzled? Irrespective of how you feel, a case study in architecture proves to be a privilege to the students in this discipline. You get to study a project of a similar genre, ascertain the design principles of the designer, and understand its scope before conceiving the design. You can also visualize the design more closely and manage the intrinsic affairs independently.

Table of Contents

What Is A Case Study In Architecture?

An architecture case study is the in-depth analysis, exploration, and understanding of an existing building. While students consider a case study in architecture as the starting point of any project, it can also serve as a reference to proceed with the intricacies of a project. For example, the following image shows the case study of “The National Gallery Of Modern Art”.

There is no definite format for representing a case study. For instance, the following images show the case study of “The Church of the Light” by Tadao Ando in various styles.

It is fun as an individual can travel a lot and meet different types of people. At the same time, how an architecture case study benefits us relies on how we perceive and deal with it. 

Philosophy of a Case Study In Architecture 

To make it easy to understand, we have summarized the philosophy below:

Literature 

You may not always be aware of the scope or objective of an upcoming project. The entire planning process might seem strenuous, and all your questions may remain unanswered. In such cases, an architecture case study can come to the rescue. It exposes an individual to the intricate details of a live project and answers all your questions practically. It helps in broadening your academic boundary, making your literature strong, and analyzing the following:

• Architectural Style

The regional or communal context and its predominance in the design.

• Micro-climate and Environment 

The surrounding nature and various important climatic factors like sun path, wind direction, or rainfall can affect the building in a particular site.

• Requirements Based On User Behaviors

The areas will suffice the purpose and efficiency by keeping gender, age group, well-being, and other factors in mind. For instance, a hospital is different from a commercial shopping center.

An architecture case study allows you to study the design philosophy that an architect used. Then you can analyze what worked and what did not, identify the pros and cons, and grasp what you need. It also helps you determine the following details:

• Planning and Analysis of Site

The site dimensions, site-to-building ratio, orientation, geology, hydrography, vegetation, etc.

• Function and Form

Which philosophy to adopt between “function follows form” and “form follows function”? Why does a building stand that way or why does it stick out from the immediate surroundings?

• Construction Materials and Technologies 

The available materials and commonly-used technologies in that region.

• Structural Details 

The columns, beams, and trusses are used in a building.

• Connectivity/Linkage 

How to link various activities inside the built space?

• Vertical and Horizontal Circulation

The placement of elevators, ramps, and staircases, or the area assigned for building lobbies and corridors.

• Access Locations

The entry and exit points of the building and the site.

• Services and Utility Systems

Determine why services like water supply systems, electrical layouts, HVAC, or fire alarms are necessary for a building.

• Barrier-free Consideration 

The design accessibility to children, people who have a disability, aged people, and pregnant women.

Imagination 

At times, you may mimic the case study you are studying instead of getting inspired by it. It happens because your thought process gets trapped in the shackles of your architecture case study. It may seem difficult to think outside the box. So, coax yourself to start afresh and let your imaginations do the rest.

Generalization 

You cannot adopt every element of it as a blueprint for your design. An architecture case study will make you realize that. Every design is distinctly unique and meant to fit in with ever-changing parameters like climate, region, and user requirements. Putting every single design problem in the same mold would lead you nowhere.

Therefore, treat every design problem differently.

Diversity 

It is necessary to have at least a couple of options to study from instead of sticking to one particular architecture case study. It forbids you to imitate an existing design and lets your creativity flow. 

So, initiate your case study with a small-scale project to outline the basics and consider another large-scale project to modify the required parameters you did not include before.

Architecture is a dynamic course where learning delves deeper and much beyond the scope of the textbooks. It is an undertaking to design the future by continuing the legacy of human civilization while minimizing past mistakes. All these reasons make the precedence of architecture case study an inevitable necessity.

Remember: we intend to research, understand the concepts that the architect has applied, and learn how that project worked. Meanwhile, we should also be able to point out the flaws and perfect them while introducing them in our projects.

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While finding her solace in silence and everything mundane, Shreyosi prefers to untangle the chaos inside her head and makes an effort to paint scenarios with words that keep her awake at night.

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20 Types of Architecture thesis topics

An architectural thesis is perhaps the most confusing for a student because of the range of typologies of buildings that exist. It also seems intimidating to pick your site program and do all the groundwork on your own. While choosing an architectural thesis topic, it is best to pick something that aligns with your passion and interest as well as one that is feasible. Out of the large range of options, here are 20 architectural thesis topics .

1. Slum Redevelopment (Urban architecture)

Slums are one of the rising problems in cities where overcrowding is pertinent. To account for this problem would be one of great value to the city as well as the inhabitants of the slum. It provides them with better sanitation and well-being and satisfies their needs.

2. Maggie Center (Healthcare architecture)

This particular typology of buildings was coined by a cancer patient,  Margaret Keswick Jencks,   who believed that cancer-treatment centres’ environment could largely improve their health and wellbeing by better design. This led a large number of starchitects to participate and build renowned maggie centres.

3. Urban Sprawl Redesign (Urban design)

The widening of city boundaries to accommodate migrants and overcrowding of cities is very common as of late. To design for the constant urban sprawl would make the city life more convenient and efficient for all its users.

4. Redesigning Spaces Under Elevated Roads and Metros (Urban infrastructure)

A lot of space tends to become dead space under metros or elevated roads. To use these spaces more efficiently and engage them with the public would make it an exciting thesis topic.

5. Urban Parks (Urban landscape)

Urban parks are not only green hubs for the city, which promotes the well-being of the city on a larger level, but they also act as great places for the congregation and bring a community together.

6. Reusing Abandoned Buildings (Adaptive reuse)

All buildings after a point become outdated and old but, what about the current old and abandoned buildings? The best way to respond to these is not by demolishing them; given the amount of effort it takes to do so, but to enhance them by restoring and changing the building to current times.

7. Farming in Cities (Green urban spaces)

With climate change and population on the rise, there is statistical proof that one needs to start providing farming in cities as there is not sufficient fertile land to provide for all. Therefore, this makes a great thesis topic for students to explore.

8. Jails (Civil architecture)

To humanize the function of jails, to make it a place of change and rehabilitation, and break from the stereotypical way of looking at jails. A space that will help society look at prisoners as more than monsters that harm, and as fellow humans that are there to change for everyone’s betterment.

9. Police Academies (Civil architecture)

Academies that train people to be authoritative and protective require spaces for training mentally and physically; focussing on the complexity of the academy and focussing on the user to enhance their experience would work in everyone’s favour.

10. High Court (Civil architecture)

Courtrooms are more often than not looked at as spaces that people fear, given the longevity of court cases. It can be a strenuous space; therefore, understanding the user groups’ state of mind and the problems faced can be solved using good design. 

11. Disaster-resilient structures (Disaster-relief architecture)

Natural disasters are inevitable. Disaster-resilient structures are build suitably for the natural disasters of the region while also incorporating design into it, keeping in mind the climatic nature of the location.

12. Biophilic design (Nature-inspired architecture)

As humans, we have an innate love for nature, and the struggle between integrating nature and architecture is what biophilic design aims towards. To pick a topic where one would see minimal use of natural elements and incorporate biophilic design with it would be very beneficial.

13. Metro stations and Bus terminals (Transportation spaces)

Bus terminals and metro stations are highly functional spaces that often get crowded; and to account for the crowd and the problems that come with it, plus elevate the experience of waiting or moving, would contribute to making it a good thesis topic.

14. Airport design (Transportation spaces)

Airport designing is not very uncommon; however, it is a rather complex program to crack; thereby, choosing this topic provides you with the opportunity to make this space hassle-free and work out the most efficient way to make this conducive for all types of users.

15. Sports Complex (Community architecture)

If your passion lies in sports, this is a go-to option. Each sport is played differently, different materials are used, and the nature of the sport and its audience is rather complicated. However, to combine this and make it a cohesive environment for all kinds of users would make a good thesis topic.

16. Stadium (Community architecture)

Unlike a sports complex, one could also pick one sport and look at the finer details, create the setting, and experience for it; by designing it to curate a nice experience for the players, the public, and the management.

17. Waste-recycling center (Waste management)

Reducing waste is one of the most fundamental things we must do as humans. Spaces where recycling happens must be designed consciously. Just like any other space, it has been given importance over the years, and this would make a good thesis topic to provide the community with.

18. Crematorium (Public architecture)

Cremation of a loved one or anyone for that matter is always a rather painful process and a range of emotions is involved when it comes to this place. Keeping in mind the different types of people and emotions and making your thesis about this would mean to enhance this experience while still keeping the solemnity of it intact.

19. Museums (Community architecture)

Museums are spaces of learning, and the world has so much to offer that one could always come up with different typologies of museums and design according to the topic of one’s interest. Some of the examples would be cultural heritage, modern art, museum of senses, and many more.

20. Interpretation center (Community architecture)

An interpretation center is a type of museum located near a site of historical, cultural, or natural relevance that provides information about the place of interest through various mediums.

References:

• 2022. 68 Thesis topics in 5 minutes . [image] Available at: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NczdOK7oe98&ab_channel=BlessedArch> [Accessed 1 March 2022].
• Bdcnetwork.com. 2022. Biophilic design: What is it? Why it matters? And how do we use it? | Building Design + Construction . [online] Available at: <https://www.bdcnetwork.com/blog/biophilic-design-what-it-why-it-matters-and-how-do-we-use-it> [Accessed 1 March 2022].
• RTF | Rethinking The Future. 2022. 20 Thesis topics related to Sustainable Architecture – RTF | Rethinking The Future . [online] Available at: <https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/rtf-fresh-perspectives/a1348-20-thesis-topics-related-to-sustainable-architecture/> [Accessed 1 March 2022].
• Wdassociation.org. 2022. A List Of Impressive Thesis Topic Ideas In Architecture . [online] Available at: <https://www.wdassociation.org/a-list-of-impressive-thesis-topic-ideas-in-architecture.aspx> [Accessed 1 March 2022].

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Flora is a student of architecture, with a passion for psychology and philosophy. She loves merging her interests and drawing parallels to solve and understand design problems. As someone that values growth, she uses writing as a medium to share her learning and perspective.

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Top 35 Questions Architects Should Ask Clients

27 march 2021.

What Questions Architects Should Ask Clients?

This article highlights the top questions every architect should ask their client before starting to work on a project. This architect client questionnaire will help in effective planning and communication, besides enabling creation of a design that will build value for your client.

If you’re looking for new clients, you can find New Architectural Projects posted by client s looking for architects on Archicheq. A lot of time clients also approach architects directly by studying Architect profiles on the website.

Once you’re ready to work with a client, use this architecture questionnaire sample to clarify expectations and create a clear path for architect-client conversation.

Download the E-book with top questions to ask a client.

If you’re a client, then here’re  top questions to ask an architect during an interview or your first meeting with the architect.

High-level questions architects should ask clients

Start with these basic, yet high-level questions to get a general direction for the project. Pair them with the Deeper questions mentioned at the end.

1. What kind of project do you want to design?

Ask about the kind of project your client wants to work on—building a house, multi-storey, or office, renovating a house or a section of the house, room additions, landscaping designing, and remodelling.

This question will help define the rest of the questionnaire. Questions to ask remodeling clients will be different than an interior design client interview questions.

If your client found you on Archicheq or if you found architectural projects posted by clients on Archicheq, then their project details will answer this and many other questions here.

2. What’s your short and long-term plan for this place?

Check if the client plans to use the place for themselves or sell it off after sometime or immediately. Ask questions about the present and future users of the property. If they are a growing family, then they might have specific future needs to consider. Propose using materials and design that will create value for them in short and long-term.

3. Do you have any sustainability or energy goals for the project?

Understand the goals of the client in terms of sustainability and energy efficiency. Propose materials and energy-saving design features and show the expected contribution of those features to the client’s goal. Create a plan for how and when the goals of the client can be achieved.

The basic questions

You can ask these questions in the beginning or later, depending on your understanding of the client’s general requirement.

4. What’s your budget?

Ask your client what budget they have for the designing and construction of the project. Clarify what deviation from the estimated budget may occur. Be realistic and ensure that both you and the client are prepared for the actual spend.

5. What’s your timeline?

Ask the client about their expected timeline for the project. Discuss all their requirements with the client and estimate the time the project may require. Talk about some delays that may occur, so that the client is aware of the time required from the start.

Utility based questions to ask a client when designing a building

Who will use the space? How do they wish to use it? These are important questions to ask a client when designing a building, as they help create a canvas for your design. 

6. Who will use the facility?

Ask your client about the people who will use the space—family of adults or adults and children, office staff, or public. This information will help you plan the right features and rooms.

7. How do you plan to use indoor and outdoor spaces?

Ask the client about how they plan to use different rooms and sections of their house. Ask about the activities they undertake. Design a house or office to enable those activities, both outdoor and indoor.

8. How much time do you spend on indoor and outdoor activities?

The time spent in different sections of the house will guide you on who much space and budget you can allot to each room and area. Your client will have to truthfully reflect on this question to help you plan better.

9. Will the space be used for entertaining?

Ask if the place will be used to entertain people, and if the client would want to include a game room, bar, guest room, outdoor sitting, living room, dining room, kitchen, etc. Check about the capacity of each room and see if there is scope to accommodate that.

10. What level of privacy do you desire?

Ask about the number of people who will use the facility and the privacy requirement of each person. Design the space so that the users get the desired privacy and common areas, ensuring the functionality of each place isn’t compromised.

11. Will anyone with any disability use this place?

If a person with a disability will be using the place on a regular basis, then it will be ideal for you to incorporate accessible design features. Ask the client about this in advance to create effective designs.

Project management and communication

Answers to these questions will save you a lot of time during the project. Management of an architectural project becomes easy when the client and architect are able to effectively communicate.

12. How much time can you contribute during the designing and construction phase?

Check with the client how much time they are willing to spend on approving the designs and coordinating about the various questions you might have during the construction of the project. Clarifying their availability will help plan communication better.

13. What level of involvement do you want the designing and construction of the project?

Check the type of updates the client might need, the type of involvement they wish to have in different design and construction decisions. They will help you understand when to contact them and when to take a call on your own. 

14. Do you want you to procure the material?

Ask the client if they want to procure the material or if they would need your assistance. In the latter case, how would they like to be involved in the process of choosing and paying for the materials? Share your design inputs and material preference in either case.

15. Do you want you to hire and manage the contractors?

Also, ask the client if they want you to take the responsibility of choosing and hiring contractors or if they’d like to do their own recruitment. In case they recruit the contractors, do they want you to coordinate with them during construction or not?

16. What design formats do you prefer?

Share the design format you generally work with—Drawings, Digital 2d or 3d designs, or Physical 3d models. Check which format your client will be able to understand better and visualize the structure better with.

17. Do you need assistance in getting design permits?

Check if your design needs any special permits in the area, and if so, check if the client would be able to help obtain those permits, if needed.

18. How would you like to pay?

Some clients prefer paying in predetermined installments or a lump sum amount. Also, share with the client your fee structure—a percentage of the project’s cost or a fixed fee. Clarify if the client would like to keep a credit card on file or make a direct deposit.

Access Archicheq’s payment features  that enable clients to deposit money in an Escrow account at the start of the project. The fee gets released to architects on the completion of the project.

19. What’s the best way to communicate with you?

To ensure that the communication between you and your client goes smoothly throughout the project, check what their preferred mode of communication is—email, call, or text messages. Check what’s the best time or day to contact them in a week, and how often would they like to connect to get updates and share thoughts on the progress of the project. 

A conversation between architects and clients becomes easy when you pay heed to each other’s time and meet each other’s need to get information to keep the project going.

Related post: Maintaining a Healthy Architect-Client Relationship.

Design questions to ask clients

These Design questions to ask clients will give your project an outline. Ask what your client wants and communicate what can be achieved with the given space and budget.

20. What kind of architecture do you prefer?

One of the first Architecture design interview questions should be about the type of architecture that appeals to your client. Show them various design styles or samples to choose from, so that you understand what direction to take with your design.

21. Do you have any design and material ideas to share?

Ask your client if they’d like to share any pictures from Pinterest, magazines, etc. that they might have saved as reference for this property. Ask them to point out the features they like the most in each picture and why.

22. Are any design features important to you?

Ask if your client has any preference to include or exclude certain features. These can be related to the aesthetics, a certain room, functionality of the place, energy efficiency, interaction with the environment, etc.

23. Do you have landscaping requirements?

Ask your client if they want you to design the landscape surrounding their house. Landscape design client interview questions help you include such designs in your drawings to begin with. In case you need to hire a landscape artist, you can include that cost in the budget.

24. What kind of rooms/spaces do you want--bedrooms, dining, family, drawing, kitchen, garage, etc?

Ask the client about the kind of rooms and spaces they’d like to have. If it’s a house, then besides bedrooms, kitchen, dining and living rooms, do they have space and requirements for other rooms like a study, family room, rec room, and indoor pool.

25. How many bedrooms do you want?

For designing a house, ask about the number of bedrooms they want and who they will be used by, so that you can design appropriate sizes and functional features.

26. How many bathrooms do you want?

Ask about the number of bathrooms your client requires. Do they want all full bathrooms or do they wish to have a powder room near the living room and recreation room. 

27. What kind of kitchen do you like?

Different clients have different cooking and entertainment needs and habits. Ask your client if they like a big,open, airy, and lit kitchen, if they want a wood burning oven, or if they prefer a small kitchen as they hardly cook.

28. Do you want a loft or upper floors?

Different clients have different needs and budget for the present and future. Ask if your client needs a loft or a second floor with rooms. Discuss with them the long-term usability of the upper floor.

29. Do you want a study or work-from-home space?

If your client works from home, check if they’d like you to design a study or work corner. Such consideration for their lifestyle will help them see that you care.

30. What storage needs do you have?

Some people prefer a lot of storage space for clothes, kitchen items, tools, and other items. Discuss the type of storage need your client has, also asking about the space they’d like to dedicate to storage areas.

31. How many covered parking spaces do you need?

Your client may have a specific requirement for covered parking spaces. Confirm their need to be able to plan the design better.

32. Do you need a fireplace?

Check with the client if they need a working fireplace in the house--electric or live. Discuss with them the most practical and feasible option which they can use for a long time.

33. How much natural light do you prefer?

Different people prefer different amounts of light in various rooms of the house. Ask your client about what they prefer, so that you can design features that allow in desirable amounts of light.

These are important client analysis architecture questions that will help you create a strong base for the planning stage.

34. Are there any known challenges for the site?

Check with the client if they are aware of any known challenges of the terrain and the existing structure. The client can also put you in touch with previous owners or local property builders to get more information.

35. What’s your Vision for the project?

The vision represents the paradigms you want the house or property to stand for and represent. Understand your client’s vision or help them develop one, no matter how deep, simple or straightforward it is. If they want to sell the property, the vision might be as simple as making the place Efficient or Aesthetically pleasing. Knowing their vision  will help you step into your client’s shoes  while making all the design decisions.

Once the project is complete, you can ask the client if they’d like to write a review for your architectural services  on Archicheq. This will help you build your architect profile to attract new clients.

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Our Automatic Readability Checker takes a sample of your writing and calculates the number of sentences, words, syllables, and characters in your sample. Our program takes the output of these numbers and plugs them into seven popular readability formulas. These readability formulas (see below) will let you know the reading level and grade level of your text and help you determine if your audience can read your writing. (Note: We also have separate readability tools to calculate grade levels using the Fry Graph, Raygor Estimate Graph, Spache Formula, and New Dale-Chall Formula, located here: Free Readability Calculators and Text Tools). Directions: Paste in a sample of text and click "CHECK TEXT READABILITY." A sufficient sample size consists of 4-5 full sentences; approximately 200 - 600 words total. For larger texts, such as books, manuals, or dissertations, pull 1-2 sample sizes from each chapter. (Note: We limit the sample size to 3000 words. Sample sizes over 3K words are truncated.)

Case Study: Using Recycled Glass Countertops in an Architecture Firm Office

Gilasi Miraca (Island) at Quinn Evans — Washington DC

Introduction to Gilasi

Gilasi was founded on one core principle: to make better, environmentally sustainable surfaces. Since 2005, they’ve been doing just that. Gilasi contains 77–85% recycled content by weight, reducing the resources needed to make it. And they’re serious about safety. Gilasi is 100% VOC-free and crystalline silica free, ensuring a safer home for you and your family and a safer workplace for their employees.

Quinn Evans Washington D.C. Office, is pursuing LEED Gold certification. The firm is committed to sustainable principles, which include the use of eco-friendly materials. Notably, Gilasi Glass stone includes a high percentage of recycled content , aligning with LEED’s Material Ingredient Credit. Understanding the resource content of the selected project finishes was crucial in the design process. The goal was to enhance the quality of the space with healthy materials, in addition to the design aesthetic.

Material Selection Rationale

All the green credentials, aesthetics, and the variation in the glass pieces (different colors, different shapes) are fitting for a kitchen island. The kitchen island is composed of Gilasi Miraca and sets the center stage of our amenity space; a gathering place where a conversation occurs. The countertops and full height backsplash on the perimeter of the kitchen are Gilasi Ice and appear seamless balancing the dramatic focus of the island. Because of this unique material, the island becomes a conversation starter for sustainable design.

Gilasi Miraca (Island) and Gilasi Ice (Back Counter) at Quinn Evans — Washington DC

Results: Style Meets Sustainability

With Gilasi countertops they were able to achieve a clean subtle look for the kitchen counters. This design approach provided versatility in selecting the kitchen island, which incorporated various recycled glass pieces. Visitors always ask what the kitchen island is made of and it continues to be a good story and talking point about recycled content that is visible and understandable.

Gilasi on 2050 Materials

The partnership between 2050 Materials and CaraGreen signifies a significant step forward in advancing sustainable design and construction practices. By featuring Gilasi on the 2050 Materials platform , the collaboration aims to catalyze the adoption of building materials based on their sustainability performance, driving positive change within the industry.

Discover Gilasi’s properties and its material facts on our platform .

Gilasi on 2050 Materials platform

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Get full access to Software Architecture: A Case Based Approach and 60K+ other titles, with a free 10-day trial of O'Reilly.

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Software Architecture: A Case Based Approach

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Book description

Software Architecture: A Case Based Approach discusses the discipline using real-world case studies and posing pertinent questions that arouse objective thinking. It encourages the reader to think about the subject in the context of problems that software architects solve, the tools they use and the constraints under which they operate. To facilitate this, a case study is provided at the beginning of most chapters, followed by an in-depth analysis that delves into the core issues and challenges of software architecture.

About The Author – Vasudeva Varma is a faculty member at International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad, since 2002. He is currently heading the Search and Information Extraction Lab (SIEL) at the Language Technologies Research Center and Software Engineering Research Lab (SERL). Prior to his present affi liation at IIIT Hyderabad, he was President, MediaCognition India Pvt Ltd and Chief Architect at MediaCognition Inc. (Cupertino, CA). A former director of engineering and research at InfoDream Corporation, Santa Clara, CA, Dr. Varma has also worked with Citicorp and Muze Inc. at New York as senior consultant. He received his Ph.D. from the Department of Computer and Information Sciences, University of Hyderabad, in 1996. With several publications in journals and conferences to his credit, he received the young scientist award from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, in 2004. He received a research faculty award from AOL Labs in 2007. His areas of interests include search and information extraction, knowledge management and software engineering. He is also interested in experimenting with non-conventional methods for teaching software engineering in general, and case-study-based approach in particular.

Book Contents – 1. Software Architecture Primer 2. Where is the Architecture? Story of a Sick Health Insurance Application 3. Refining and Re-factoring Architecture—Story of McCombbs Call Centre 4. Architecture Evaluation—Developing a Futuristic Travel Search Engine 5. Moving from Software Architecture to Software Design—Building a Mobile Trading System 6. Component-based Development: Portal of Universal Bank 7. Emerging Trends in Software Architecture References, Index

Table of contents

• A Case Based Approach
• Acknowledgements
• About the Author
• The Rise and fall of Netscape (or the Browser War 1994–1999)
• The Growing Demands on Software Development
• What is software architecture?
• The Importance of Software Architecture
• Role of a Software Architect
• Some Important Terms used in Software Architecture
• Types of Architectures
• Architectural Drivers
• Software Architecture Frameworks
• Architectural Styles or Architectural Patterns (1/2)
• Architectural Styles or Architectural Patterns (2/2)
• Polya’s How to Solve It—A Problem-Solving Guide
• Systems Thinking Approach to Problem Solving
• Further Reading
• Case Study: Assure-Health—Story of a Sick Health InsuranceApplication (1/3)
• Case Study: Assure-Health—Story of a Sick Health InsuranceApplication (2/3)
• Case Study: Assure-Health—Story of a Sick Health InsuranceApplication (3/3)
• Why is Software Architecture Important?
• Role of Architecture in Software Development
• The use Case Analysis
• The Technical Process of Designing Architectures
• Case Analysis (1/2)
• Case Analysis (2/2)
• Conclusions
• Best Practices and Key Lessons from the Case Study
• Case Study: Technical Architecture of McCombbs Call CentreSoftware (1/3)
• Case Study: Technical Architecture of McCombbs Call CentreSoftware (2/3)
• Case Study: Technical Architecture of McCombbs Call CentreSoftware (3/3)
• Software Architecture Goals and Drivers
• Software Architecture Patterns and Anti-Patterns
• Performance Objectives
• Performance Improvement
• Understanding Architecture
• Identifying Key Scenarios
• Identifying Problem Areas or Bottlenecks
• Refining the System
• Step 1: 4 + 1 View Model of the Proposed Architecture (1/2)
• Step 1: 4 + 1 View Model of the Proposed Architecture (2/2)
• Step 2: Prepare for the Evaluation
• Step 3: Execute the Evaluation
• Step 4: Reflect the Evaluation
• What Is Architectural Evaluation?
• Why Should Architecture Be Evaluated and Reviewed?
• When to Evaluate and Review?
• Who Should Evaluate and Review?
• What Should Be Reviewed?
• How to Review Architectures?
• Case Study: Evluating the Architecture of a Futuristic Traval Search Engine (1/3)
• Case Study: Evluating the Architecture of a Futuristic Traval Search Engine (2/3)
• Case Study: Evluating the Architecture of a Futuristic Traval Search Engine (3/3)
• Techniques for Evaluation and Review
• A Review Method for Architectural Description and Architecting Process
• Scenario-Based Review Methods
• Which Method to use?
• Software Architecture Analysis Method
• What is Design?
• Design Notations
• Case Study: Mobile Trading System (1/2)
• Case Study: Mobile Trading System (2/2)
• The Design Process
• Moving from Architecture to Design
• Step 1: Defi ning System Context
• Step 2: Identifying the Modules
• Step 3: Describing the Components and Connectors
• Characteristics of a Good Design
• Use Case Specification (1/2)
• Use Case Specification (2/2)
• Sequence Diagrams
• Class Diagrams
• Why Component-Based Development?
• Origin of CDB
• Some Examples of Cost of ‘From the Scratch’ Development
• Case Study: Component-Based Development for Universal Bank Portal (1/5)
• Case Study: Component-Based Development for Universal Bank Portal (2/5)
• Case Study: Component-Based Development for Universal Bank Portal (3/5)
• Case Study: Component-Based Development for Universal Bank Portal (4/5)
• Case Study: Component-Based Development for Universal Bank Portal (5/5)
• The Component-Based Development Approach
• Success Factors of CDB
• Challenges to Adopting CDB
• Software Architecture Discipline—Past, Present and Future
• Reusability and Reusable Services
• Service-Oriented Architecture (1/2)
• Service-Oriented Architecture (2/2)
• Dimensions of Future Software Architecture
• Critical Software Architecture Elements (1/2)
• Critical Software Architecture Elements (2/2)
• References (1/2)
• References (2/2)
• Index (1/2)
• Index (2/2)

Product information

• Title: Software Architecture: A Case Based Approach
• Author(s): Vasudeva Varma
• Release date: May 2024
• Publisher(s): Pearson India
• ISBN: 9781282663015

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Innovation & Enterprise

• For students
• For businesses
• Case studies

Entrepreneur profile: Nikhit Anilbhai and Sonakshi Senthil, co-founders of Your Cue

UCL alumni Nikhit Anilbhai and Sonakshi Senthil reflect on the support they’ve received through UCL Innovation & Enterprise that’s helping them grow an award-winning med-tech business.

17 May 2024

Dr Nikhit Anilbhai and Sonakshi Senthil both had a deep passion for improving healthcare when they came to study as postgraduates at UCL in 2019. Nikhit embarked on an MSc in Nanotechnology and Regenerative Medicine, and Sonakshi an MSc in Personalised Medicine and Novel Therapies.

By the end of both their master’s, the pair had pooled their ideas and talents to launch Your Cue: an award-winning business that builds finger-based wearables for patients in hospitals. Their technology allows patients’ vital readings, such as heart rate and blood pressure, to be monitored continuously so that any problems can be quickly dealt with.

Nikhit and Sonakshi have been supported to grow their business as part of the Hatchery incubator programme at BaseKX, UCL's dedicated entrepreneurship hub in King's Cross, managed by UCL Innovation & Enterprise.

A business founded during the pandemic

Nikhit: Our journey with Your Cue really came into being when Sonakshi and I took time off from our master’s during the Covid pandemic to go back to India where we’re both from. I started working as a medical officer during the pandemic and saw first hand the frustration that came from not being able to do enough to save my patients.

I later lost my own father to Covid, and I remember saying to Sonakshi at the time: "if only I could have kept a check on his vitals, I could have done something to help save his life."

Saving lives and improving patient care

Sonakshi: Our company is based on the principle that the vital signs of every patient need to be monitored continuously. Many, many lives are lost every year simply as a result of a lack of monitoring, and we have developed a piece of technology that can help solve that problem.

With our wearable, hospitals could continuously check everything a nurse might need to monitor on a patient, including heart rate, blood oxygen, skin temperature and blood pressure. We’re introducing new features so we can monitor things like cardiac anomalies, too.

All that information is then uploaded to the cloud and any clinician can access it in real time. Our device also features notifications and alarms to alert healthcare professionals if a patient needs urgent attention.

Nikhit: At the moment, continuous monitoring generally only happens when someone is in intensive care. But we believe all patients should receive this kind of monitoring.

As well as preventing lives being lost, we’ve calculated huge efficiency gains. If every NHS trust introduced our wearable, it could save nurses in the UK around 13 million hours annually by relieving them of their responsibility to run periodic checks. This is time they could then spend on improving patient care.

Support from UCL Innovation & Enterprise

Nikhit: When we came back to UCL to finish our master’s in 2021, we knew we needed help with this. Our starting point was to enrol ourselves on the Launch programme – now called ‘Build your business or social enterprise’ (run by UCL Innovation & Enterprise). As well as finding out about everything from marketing to legal, we won a cash prize of £500. That small victory pushed us to pursue our goals and we applied for the Hatchery incubator. I remember thinking "wow, someone else believes in our idea, we need to keep going with it now."

Sonakshi: Being part of UCL’s Hatchery incubator programme has been a game-changer. In addition to getting help with the necessary visas we needed as international students, we’ve had free desk space for three years, and been exposed to experts in areas like sales, deck designing, marketing and finance.

The other big benefit is the peer support, and being surrounded by other people building these amazing businesses, too. That’s driven us to achieve a lot more and push ourselves to put ourselves forward for things like competitions to build our exposure with investors.

Winning the 'Hatchery Start-up of the Year'

Nikhit: Winning Hatchery Start-up of the Year 2022 was a crucial early win, as we were struggling for funds then. The £13,000 prize money allowed us to devote the next six months to developing our first proof of concept (POC). We then secured £10,000 from the CapTableTV pitch competition as an equity investment to take things to the second POC stage.

Other highlights have included representing UCL in the Venture Cup in Denmark and China, and winning both those competitions, and myself and Sonakshi have both recently won Top 100 Asians in UK tech awards from Diversity UK.

Where things are up to

Sonakshi: Most recently, we secured a £50,000 Innovate UK grant with support from the Innovate UK Business Growth team, part of UCL Innovation & Enterprise. We’re now using this grant to add additional features into our device.

Once we’ve received the necessary certifications, which we hope to get by the end of 2024, we’ll be running soft pilots with several NHS trusts next. Our intention is to launch in the UK, and in India soon after that.

Advice for budding entrepreneurs

Sonakshi: If I could offer any advice, it would be to say that entrepreneurship can seem like this huge mountain to climb at the beginning. You think to yourself "am I really going to get through all this?" You go into your idea with a lot of excitement, but you have to be resilient. You have to face a lot of rejections and still have the emotional capacity to keep going.

Nikhit: I would add that it’s important to be realistic. One of our biggest wake-up calls was to do with funding. When we started, it looked like it would be easy to raise capital. It actually took us six to eight months to understand the fundraising process as first-time founders, and where to look for investment.

But if you’re passionate about your idea, I truly believe you have every chance of making it a reality at UCL. It’s up to you to harness all the resources on offer. Keep going and keep reaching out. There are many, many people here who’ll want to cheer you on, and help. We’ve had so many people advise us and give their valuable time for free because they believe in what we’re doing. We’re so lucky, and grateful, for that.

Find out more about:

• UCL’s Hatchery startup incubator programme
• entrepreneurship support for students and recent graduates
• The UCL Santander Summer Showcase

Entrepreneur profiles

Vishal kumar, mres student and alice camera founder.

“The facilities at the Hatchery are great and the free office space has been a boost to us. Access to brand and design consultancy and free legal advice have been unbelievably important.”

James Della Valle, MSc Architecture graduate and co-founder of BoxxDocks

“One of the best things about being part of the Hatchery is being surrounded by other UCL entrepreneurs. We ask each other questions, we signpost each other to different bits of support. Having that community is game-changing.”

Read more entrepreneur profiles .