Precedent (Case) Studies are the quickest way to understand your
project and a vital way to ‘set the scene’.
A precedent study is an analysis of a previously completed piece of architecture or design project that
demonstrates some aspect or depiction that can be used as an example for the unsolved design problem
you plan on working on (your senior capstone project).
Precedent studies are used to learn more about the “problem solving” of spaces by studying, analyzing,
and synthesizing the design solutions of others. The important parts to look at are the design’s function
and the design’s aesthetic quality as it relates to the built environment.
For this assignment, you will try to source information on real existing design projects that share some
areas of commonality with the project you are beginning to define. Maybe your precedent tackles a
similar RQ to those that you have identified. Maybe it is a groundbreaking model for the occupancy
classification type you are interested in pursuing for your thesis project. Remember that the precedent
does not have to be exactly like your intended project, but it must incorporate important parallels.
The completed assignment will become part of your thesis document.
Method:
1. Research and locate at least two design projects that showcase or respond to issues / spaces
that share some similarities to your intended project, or otherwise have a similar scope. For
example, if you have identified a situation that your RQ addresses, find out if this situation has
been addressed before. How was it addressed? Was it successful? Most projects that require
this research-led approach, whether they are academic or practical in nature, are adding to an
existing body of knowledge. It is important to be familiar with current understanding rather than
working in a vacuum, trying to be original.
2. Source and read as much information as you can about these other projects. Do not solely rely
on just one source of information, but multiples. The better you know these projects, the better
prepared you will be to draw relevant information from them. You must source color photos of the
interior space. Floor plans or diagrams showing room layout would also be beneficial.
If you cannot find current information – select the projects that most closely relate to your
senior project.
3. Summarize the scope of the project. What was the objective? Who was the client? What were
the limitations of space, the demands of the client and how did the designer meet those
challenges? Be sure to put in quotation marks statements taken verbatim from the article and
use references appropriately.
4. Write out in note format any elements or aspects of each precedent that has direct relevance to
your intended work. These may include, but are not limited to the following areas:
i) Designer’s use of design elements and principles such as scale and
proportion, rhythm, repetition and variety, color, shape and form,
balance, and unity.
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ii) Designer’s specification choices for the FF&E in the project (textiles,
rough vs. smooth textures, patterns, flooring, ceiling materials, work
surfaces, wall coverings, lighting, etc.).
iii) If you have been able to source floor plans, use them to diagram each of
the following areas:
i. Primary and secondary circulation paths leading to egress and
support areas
ii. Support areas (Conference rooms, copy & fax areas, file room,
kitchen, reception, etc.)
iii. Private areas vs. public areas
5. Organize your observations into a coherent analysis of each precedent,
including an introduction, breakdown of exact aspects of the projects that are
important to its success or failure and highlight how they may influence the
design development of your own thesis project. Areas to be considered may
include:
1. Originality or innovation
2. Spatial Functionality
3. Design aesthetic or beauty
4. Specific design choices (form, materials etc.)
5. Perceived success or failure
6. Any other thoughts or comments about how this assignment has helped
you make decisions about your projec