Public defence in Design, MA Emrecan Gulay

The title of the thesis: Intuitive Design Workflows: Investigating the Feedback Cycles Between Physical and Digital Processes

Doctoral student: Emrecan Gulay
Opponent: Prof. Timothy R. Merritt, Aalborg Universitet, Denmark
Custos: Prof. Sampsa Hyysalo, Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture, Department of Design

The doctoral thesis by Emrecan Gulay from Aalto University explores early design processes and the use of physical and digital tools in architectural design. Emrecan's research aims to understand architects’ design experiences and how they can be improved by narrowing the gap between physical and digital realms. Drawing insights from human-computer interaction, architecture, and design, the thesis beckons us to reimagine the very foundations of creativity.

The thesis is based on three studies that investigate different aspects of the design process and the use of tools. The first study reviews the literature on the topic and defines the scope of the research. The second study introduces an exploratory design process that uses Research Through Design (RtD) methodology to understand early ideation stages and test existing interactive and tangible design tools that enable spatial manipulation. The third study presents interviews with practicing architects and experts from different countries who share their views and experiences on the design process and the use of tools.

The results of the research show that architects value intuitive design experiences that allow them to easily manipulate and understand design concepts. The results also highlight the importance of integrating physical and digital design workflows and using interactive and tangible design tools that support intuitive design experiences. The thesis proposes several approaches to create intuitive design experiences, such as designing tools that enable easy exploration and comprehension of design alternatives, using feedback mechanisms that foster iterative improvement, and creating design environments that blend physical and digital elements.

The thesis offers a theoretical and historical framework for the research, as well as practical implications and suggestions for practitioners and researchers who are interested in improving the design process and creating more intuitive and efficient design experiences.

Thesis available for public display 10 days prior to the defence at: https://aaltodoc.aalto.fi/doc_public/eonly/riiputus/

Contact information:

See also:

• Doctoral theses in the School of Arts, Design and Architecture: https://aaltodoc.aalto.fi/handle/123456789/54
• Zoom Quick Guide: https://www.aalto.fi/en/services/zoom-quick-guide