The heart of the pattern

What it is

Context is everything. This piece by Molly Wright Steenson of the Princeton School of Architecture seeks to remind the reader that behind design patterns, outlined in Christopher Alexander’s 1977 A Pattern Language, there was Pattern Manual (1967), a book that demonstrated the importance of the problem statement and context, particularly to solve complex problems.

Why it is important

Design problems contextualize the patterns. When there is more than one solution to a problem, contextualizing the pattern helps determine whether a given pattern is the right solution. One must understand the context of the pattern and then understand their own design problem to determine fit. Moreover, just as Alexander and his co-authors invited critique for improvement and iteration of their patterns, The Guide Project invites commentary on patterns to strengthen its utility. -RU