Concept exploration is a critical part of the design process. Once the initial site analysis and building & zoning code analysis are complete and the physical parameters of the project are established, concept exploration begins. As a teacher of architecture at the University of Hawaii, I know the importance of how ideas, thoughts, imagined spaces and inspiration play a critical role for future decisions as the project progresses. A project without a vision or genesis becomes a project designed in a void. Sketching is often the way for us to express and develop our concepts. We also look at precedence from other similar typologies as well as interest that we may have with respect to an individual project.

Concept development varies greatly depending on the type of project we are designing. Residential designs are often inspired by the owners; becoming very personal to what is meaningful in their lives and what makes them thrive as a person or family. Educational facilities are often inspired by the children and the mission of the school. Commercial projects with specific users become inspired by their business and/or the image they want to portray. Retail is often inspired by the product(s) they are selling and the profile of the buyer. In all cases, the concept for the project becomes the guiding light for design decisions coupled with the functional and programmatic requirements of the project. A successful project is one that is aesthetically and conceptually strong while functioning perfectly.