A Definitive Guide on How to Choose Architecture Thesis Topic

The thesis semester of architectural education is the first time a student gets to curate their own design brief. After four years of getting detailed briefs from the faculty and working on routine projects assigned by the curriculum, you finally get to choose your topic!

As exciting as it sounds, it is also a daunting task to select the right architecture thesis topic: the jurors not only judge your final design but also assess the intent, creativity and level of research behind your topic.

Here are a few tips to make sure you choose an architectural thesis topic that sets you on the right path for the rest of your thesis expedition!

Think About Your Interests Outside Architecture

What is it that you are interested in, besides architecture? If you are passionate about subjects such as film, politics, history, business, technology etc., consider selecting a topic that combines this passion with architectural design.

For instance, a student interested in social welfare and community development can choose to design a Social Development Centre. A student intrigued by technology, business and innovation can design a Startup Incubator, a building that acts as a hub for brewing ideas and supporting business growth.

Having pre-existing in-depth knowledge about your topic will help you in the design process, and strong fascination for it will keep you motivated in the long run!

Think of What Do You See Yourself Doing In The Future

Your architectural thesis is going to be the highlight of your portfolio while looking for a job as a fresher architect. If you are interested in exploring different material technologies instead of pursuing projects with mainstream construction techniques, your thesis should ideally reflect the same.

Take note of these advices from our mentors and get a head start on your portfolio.

This thesis on a Bamboo Museum and Research Centre clearly showcases the student’s style and interests and will help them get a job in a firm with an aligning design philosophy.

Read more: Internship 101: 5 Best Architecture Internship Firms in Asia To Check Out

 

Be Open To Ideas

Sometimes, we start with an inclination towards one topic, and along the way, while researching and studying for it, find something else that intrigues us more. Do not limit yourself to the first topic you set your mind on! Spend time studying different topics (or different aspects of the same topic) before finalizing something. There is no harm in presenting more than one topic option to your faculty, and getting to know their opinions.

Since you are going to be spending the entire semester working on this, do not rush into the decision without adequate research and conviction!

Do Not Get Influenced By What Others May Think!

One of the most common mistakes made by a student while choosing their topic is giving in to the pressure of what others might think. Students may want to work on a topic that sounds intellectual, unique or is of monumental scale. While striving for excellence is a good practice, do not let your actual interests be overshadowed by what others think a thesis should look (or sound) like!

Architect Chris Precht’s thesis topic, at its core, was as simple as designing a public library. It is in his design that he displayed his creativity and originality, without worrying about the uniqueness of the topic itself.

Read more: 10 Award-Winning Architecture Thesis Projects From Around The World

Use Your Learnings Throughout Architecture School

The thesis is a culmination of everything you have learnt as an architecture student. It will reflect your style of presenting things and what you believe in as an architect. This will be your chance to showcase everything that you have learned through your architecture school, from bamboo workshops, seminars on sustainable building technologies to computational design courses, all these things have an equal contribution to your final design, even if you don’t realise it!

Reflect on what you have learnt in the past four years, and think about the activities that excited you the most. How can you use your skills and knowledge to create something unique to you? Analyse your strengths and interests to come up with a topic that reflects your architectural style.

Solve a Real-World Problem

Architects have a significant role in creating an impact on social and environmental issues, whether they choose to accept the enormity of it or not. As a budding architect, you must make an effort to provide design-driven solutions to real problems. Commitment towards making a difference is a critical aspect of your growth as a young architect, and thesis is the best time to hone that skill. To experience a real-time project and gain insights of this field, you learn BIM, and understand why it is crucial in today’s world.

Read more : BIM Metamorphosis - A Paradigm Shift in the AEC Industry

Challenge Yourself!

While it is a good idea to play on your strengths while choosing your topic, it is also important to remember that an architectural thesis should be the most intensive learning experience of your student life. Do not limit yourself to your comfort zone, instead, look for something that you are good at and will challenge you simultaneously!

Your thesis is not just another academic assignment, but an opportunity for you to grow as an architect. Choosing an undergraduate architecture thesis topic is an intimidating task, but don’t forget to enjoy the process.When you put your heart and soul into it, there is no way you can go wrong with what you choose!

So, what are you waiting for? Apply for the BIM Course offered by Novatr, gain knowledge, and enhance your skills required in the AEC industry.