At DC School of Architecture and Design, Vagamon, we believe that the journey into architecture begins long before students enter a classroom. With that vision, we have launched our workshop series titled ‘Design Thinking’—a creative initiative crafted specifically for architecture aspirants preparing to join B.Arch programs across Kerala.
The primary objective of this workshop is to introduce students to the world of architecture, helping them explore its foundational ideas and concepts before they formally begin their academic journey. It’s not just a preview of the B.Arch curriculum—it’s a thoughtful and immersive experience designed to spark curiosity, imagination, and understanding.
What Is Design Thinking in Architecture?
Design thinking is at the heart of architectural creativity. It is the most dynamic and exciting part of the design process. Every architectural design begins with a narrative—a story or idea that guides the form and function of a space. This thought process often forms the backbone of a successful design and can account for nearly 60% of the entire effort involved.
Take, for example, renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. His iconic design for the World Trade Centre Transportation Hub in New York draws inspiration from the image of a bird in flight—a symbol of peace and freedom. This abstract concept was translated into the sculptural, wing-like form of the building, beautifully merging vision with structure, and context with creativity.
What the Workshop Offers
In our ‘Design Thinking’ workshop, we guide students through a series of curated exercises rooted in fundamental design principles. These hands-on activities are specifically designed to engage young minds and encourage critical thinking, creativity, and spatial awareness. Participants get a taste of architectural problem-solving and the expressive power of form, light, and material.
By the end of the workshop, students walk away with more than just theoretical knowledge—they leave with an appreciation for how architecture impacts our lives, and how thoughtful design begins with a simple idea, developed through deep thinking and creative exploration.
We believe that by introducing aspiring students to this process early on, we not only prepare them for their future studies but also inspire them to dream boldly and design responsibly.
