Cognitive Activities in Architectural Design

Architectural design relies on distinct cognitive processes that have been the subject of research for several decades. However, in light of recent social and technological shifts reshaping the discipline, there is a pressing need for new insights to better understand how these changes influence the design process.

This collective work offers an overview of research in the field, opening up perspectives towards an ever-finer understanding of the cognitive processes involved in architectural design: design neuroscience, uses induced or offered by building information modeling (BIM), information retrieval, representational processes, AI in ideation, and the values and processes used in active participation.

Cognitive Activities in Architectural Design is aimed at researchers in the design sciences seeking a deeper understanding of design processes, architectural teachers looking to reflect on and enhance their teaching practices, and practitioners interested in how scientific research can define and conceptualize their professional work.

Stéphane Safin is Professor of Cognitive Ergonomics and Work Psychology at Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium, and Télécom Paris (Institut Polytechnique de Paris), France. His research focuses on the analysis of ideation and participation activities in design and architecture.