Everyone knows creativity is key to architectural design.

But not everyone knows how to shape a creative process that they can rely on over and over again. You need repeat successes to build your reputation as a designer and show proof of concept to your prospective clients. It’s challenging to build a successful design practice with consistent creative designs.

Consider these 5 tips for when your creative well runs dry:

1. Increase Quantity and Arrive at Quality

When it comes to brainstorming, remember: more is more! The key is to generate as many ideas as possible without worrying about whether they’re good or bad. Quantity often leads to quality. This is because it allows you to explore a wide range of possibilities. Set a timer, grab a roll of trace paper, and start sketching out every idea that comes to mind. Don’t filter or judge – let the ideas flow. Sift through them as you go and refine and develop your ideas into innovative solutions.

2. Embrace Divergent Thinking – Then Converge

Divergent thinking is all about exploring many possibilities and thinking outside the box. Allow yourself to dream big and consider wild, unconventional ideas. This phase is crucial for unlocking creative potential. Once you’ve exhausted your divergent thinking, it’s time to converge. Narrow down your options, focus on the most promising ideas, and start refining them. This balance between divergence and convergence can lead to innovative design solutions.

3. Identify Constraints 

Every architectural project comes with its own set of challenges. It may be budget constraints, site limitations, or specific client needs. These pain points can actually be a goldmine for creativity. Start by identifying all the constraints and issues related to your project. Once you have a clear picture, brainstorm solutions aimed at addressing these problems. Constraints can force you to come up with unique designs that you might not have considered otherwise.

4. Take Breaks

Sometimes the best way to solve a design problem is to step away from it for a while. Taking breaks can help clear your mind and reduce stress. This is crucial for creative thinking. Go for a walk, grab a snack, or relax for a bit. Often, the solution to a problem will come to you when you’re not actively thinking about it. Your brain continues to work on the problem in the background, and those “aha!” moments often occur when you least expect them.

5. Break Your Routine

Routines can be comforting, but they can also stifle creativity. Shake things up by changing your daily habits and surroundings. Work from a different location, take a new route to work, or engage in a hobby you’ve never tried before. Breaking your routine can expose you to new experiences and perspectives. This inspires fresh ideas and approaches in your design work. Sometimes, all it takes is a little change to see things from a whole new angle.

Creativity in architectural design is not always about having a sudden stroke of genius. By brainstorming extensively, embracing divergent thinking, identifying and solving pain points, taking breaks, and breaking your routine, you can create an environment that fosters creativity.