Architectural project processes in Bjarke Ingels Group's offices. An analysis of the company principles and approaches, the role of Bjarke Ingels as a starchitect, the design method and tools.

This study delves into the strategies employed by the Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), a globally recognized architectural studio, to attain international acclaim while investigating potential disparities between its professed principles and practical actions. Commencing with an exploration of BIG's history since its inception in 2005, this research analyzes pivotal projects contributing to its success, alongside the studio's global expansion and structural evolution. The focus then shifts to BIG's ethos articulated through its manifesto, contextualized within published works to elucidate how values shape its approach. A central tenet, "hedonistic sustainability," underscores BIG's design philosophy, emphasizing responsiveness, reincarnation, productization, and biophilia as guiding principles. Moreover, tracing BIG's trajectory underscores the transformative role of its founder, Bjarke Ingels, whose talent, charisma, and evolving public persona have propelled him into an iconic figure within and beyond the architectural realm. This evolution prompts an examination of the broader societal and architectural implications of the "starchitect" phenomenon, contextualized through comparative case studies of influential figures like Rem Koolhaas, Frank Gehry, and Frank Lloyd Wright. Transitioning to methodology, the study outlines a project path model derived from interdisciplinary theories, integrating concepts from Rittel, McLuhan, Darwin, and Mendel to delineate BIG's iterative design process. Tools employed in generating and refining design variations, including language, sketches, models, and technology, are scrutinized for their efficacy and impact on architectural production. This theoretical framework is substantiated through a real case analysis, leveraging firsthand experience within BIG to evaluate the alignment between theory and practice. The examination reveals prevalent strategies such as prototyping, while also highlighting challenges in realizing "hedonistic sustainability" due to an overreliance on superficial green design tactics. Looking ahead, the study anticipates BIG's sustained relevance and design excellence, underscored by effective branding strategies. However, it advocates for a deeper integration of genuine sustainability practices to augment the studio's impact and legacy. By embracing holistic approaches that transcend mere aesthetics, BIG can uphold its status as a trailblazer in the architectural landscape, advancing both innovation and environmental stewardship.