Studying architecture, graphic design, and UX design made me a better designer. Here’s why
I have always been a creative person since I was a kid. I remember I used to doodle on any paper I could find (my mum realized that handing me a pencil and paper was the secret to keeping me quiet and content for hours).
My journey in creativity began with studying architecture, then graphic design, and eventually UX design. After seven years of education in these three design disciplines, I want to share my experience, key learnings, and how they shaped me into a better designer.
1. Architecture
I became interested in architecture when my dad, who worked as an engineer, collaborated with architects on various projects. After school, he would pick me up and take me to work. One day, while visiting an architecture firm, I was intrigued by their designs. With the influence of my dad and my aim to be in the creative field, I chose to pursue a college degree in architecture. Throughout my studies, I sketched buildings, built models, and drew floor plans.
Key learnings:
- Designing in 3D space: Architecture focuses on thinking in 3D perspective and understanding the relationship between form and space
- Ergonomic principles: This ensures that the interaction between individuals and their surroundings is well-matched, promoting optimal well-being and system performance. Its goal is to create a safe and comfortable living environment.
- Holistic problem-solving approach: Problem-solving not just for one purpose (e.g., to house people) but also considering factors such as green designs, topography, environment, and more, providing a comprehensive and multifaceted solution.
2. Graphic design
I transitioned to graphic design due to challenges in my physics course during my studies in architecture. In my four years of graphic design, I learned about branding, print design, web design, motion graphics, typography, and illustrations.
Key learnings:
- Visual communication: Graphic design focuses on conveying messages, ideas, or information clearly through visuals using typography, photography, color, and illustration.
- Functional and aesthetics: A truly great design complements both functional and beautiful. Utilizing design principles such as alignment, spacing, balance, contrast, and color enhances the personality and attractiveness of a design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Print and digital media: Print media includes flyers, books, and magazines, posters, while digital media encompasses websites, mobile screens, videos, and digital graphics. Graphic designers solve problems by understanding each medium’s strengths, constraints, and audience.
3. UX design
After earning a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, I pursued a Master’s in Human-Computer Interaction because I wanted to learn more about the interaction between users and the product. During my studies, I gained knowledge in various aspects of UX design, including user research, design thinking, and user-centered design.
Key learnings:
- Process of user research: This process involves setting up the research, handling logistics, recruiting participants, facilitating interviews, and analyzing data. The goal of doing research is to gain a deeper understanding of the user’s needs, pain points, and behavior.
- Analytical skills: Once the data was collected and analyzed, I needed to connect the findings and translate them into designs, taking into consideration the technical requirements, business objectives, and user needs.
- User-centered designs: UX design prioritizes addressing user needs instead of the visual elements, known as user-centered design. Hence, conducting research becomes a crucial step in the UX design process because it helps us design with empathy.
So, how does it help me to be a better designer?
1. Better problem solver
Exposure to diverse design fields allows me to approach challenges from various angles, considering functionality, user experience, human factors, aesthetics, and user needs when designing.
2. Refined design skills
Through numerous practices of solving design problems and going through the process of discovering, experimenting, ideating, and designing, this process has not only honed my skills but also gained confidence in making design decisions.
3. Versatile in cross-disciplinary collaboration
The different disciplines have taught me to appreciate each discipline's unique contributions, creating effective teamwork among designers and individuals from diverse backgrounds.
4. Better communicator and a listener
Since my time in architecture, I have cultivated a practice of presenting my work to different audiences, including professors, peers, and business stakeholders. This experience increased my confidence in delivering presentations. At the same time, it has honed my ability to listen attentively when receiving feedback.
An overview of the skills acquired from architecture, graphic design, and UX design
I have created a diagram illustrating skills acquired across three disciplines (please note that this may not be a comprehensive list as it is derived from my personal experiences).
Thanks for taking the time to read this! Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn to chat or just to say hi!