ABSTRACT
Design research in architecture cannot however be conceived as synonymous with the immensely broad subject of architecture, or indeed of architectural practice; rather, it is a significant seam that runs through design work with a particular focus on the creation of new insight and knowledge. Design research is able to blend into other more established research methodologies in the arts, humanities, and science, with no intrinsic antagonism. The issue of the methodology of design research as a contested site – in that it clearly opens up a new paradigm of research – is one of its real strengths. Design research offers a rich approach for architects and academics to develop even more their own kind of knowledge and to establish the necessary approaches and methodologies. Chance should be one of architecture's main drawing tools. Chance can trigger the mechanisms of imagination in playful and collaborative ways, and release spontaneity, humour and surprise. Chance always evokes change affecting all architecture.
