Problem Seeking: An Architectural Programming Primer

by William M. Peña, Steven A. Parshall

The classic programming guide for architects and clients¿¿—fully updated and revised Architectural programming is a team effort that requires close cooperation between architects and their clients. Problem Seeking, Fifth Edition lays out a five-step procedure that teams can follow when programming any building or series of buildings, from a small house to a hospital complex. This simple yet comprehensive process encompasses the entire range of factors that influence the design of buildings.

This Fifth Edition of the only programming guide appropriate for both architect and client features new information related to BIM, integrated practice, and sustainable design when programming. Supplemented with more than 120 illustrations and diagrams updated for this edition, this indispensable resource provides revised technical information and faster, easier access to explanations, examples, and tools,

Guidance on incorporating the latest technological tools when programming

A primer on discounted cash flow analysis and net present value analysis

Project statement examples organized by project phase and building type

Useful techniques for data management, functional relationship analysis, and more

Genres: Architecture, Design, Interior Design, Nonfiction, Reference

391 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1977

Reviews

[Camy Do · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Book on Arch. Programming with illustrated graphic and step by step analysis.

[Don Valdez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as a resource for teaching.

[David (F3 Fountainhead) · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book does an excellent job of making simple concepts seem complex—exactly the opposite of what I look for in a technical book. I appreciate that the graphics are excellent and clear, but since the concepts behind them are also simple, I’d prefer to devote my energy to more challenging subjects.

That said, it’s good, I suppose, for beginners and students. But for professionals who already know basic concepts of programming and space planning, a quick summary from Ballast, or the first chapter of this book, is all you need for the ARE.

[Jun Guo]

I read it for preparing my ARE exams. It is my second time to read it. I love those diagrams illustrating the strategics used for the programming process in this book.

Secondly, it is useful to understand what is programming, how we do during programming process, and most importantly, what is the difference between programming and design.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

William Pena does a great job of describing the programming phase of design. Very simple and easy to read. Some great tips for beginners.

[Susie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book to help guide an architect through the programming process. It's easy to follow and provides a great template and is universal to project type and client base.

[Melina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Basic book on programming. Short on examples and brief. A few sections are useful and should be kept handy for occasional reference.