Seven Design Principles
Mithun’s ideas are conceptually based. We say this with a new depth of understanding after the exacting work of distilling our practice into the pages of a monograph: Integrated Design: Mithun. The introspection led us to identify Seven Design Principles that unite our sustainability mission and creative process. These touchstones provide a replicable methodology (complete with metrics) that generates dialogue and ensures that each project meets essential guidelines. They drive discovery, inspiring us to be openly inquisitive, always seek improvement, and always move forward to achieve the best results for our clients and communities.
Grow an Idea
Ideas require stewardship. We begin with a seed rather than a complete concept. It is important to learn from the program, place and needs of the client—all the circumstances that inform a project and bring the concept to life.
Expand the Boundaries
The best projects question everything. For example, how might we help the urban and natural worlds support each other as integrated systems? In addition to the building, we investigate broader issues about place and community.
Use Nature as a Guide
Without replicating nature, we employ its characteristics and functions. Nature uses only what it needs and no more. This logic permeates our work so that our designs operate like sailboats rather than powerboats.
Create Beauty & Spirit
It is the perfect moment—the culmination of a sense of place, time and movement. Beautiful design is sustainable, meaning that it is inherently elegant, functional, dramatic and enduring. Along with proportion and form, we celebrate details that contribute to a greater whole.
Do the Math
Equations underpin the relationship between a finished project and its component parts. Focusing on the math means goal setting with metrics, a consistent rigor in specifications, merging spirit with economics, and seizing every opportunity to push for new knowledge in science and design.
Strengthen Community
All Seven Principles feed into this one, as we translate a community’s hopes and dreams into designs that strengthen human activity. We can’t solve every problem, but work to enhance people’s quality of life in meaningful ways. Community implies taking responsibility for ourselves, future generations and other species.
Bring Passion / Leave Ego:
The best new idea could come from anywhere. We see designers as students, partners and mentors. With a passion for learning, we invite people in and form lasting relationships. We increase the odds for discovery through experience and team work, honing them into joint outcomes.
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