Understanding complex problems

This requires an enhanced ability not only to perceive the problem, but also to focus on particular problems as being the most relevant to solve. Why do architects insist on ‘bespoke’ solutions and methods rather than working together to research and agree on one single optimum, or even correct, answer to questions such as,
‘What are the qualities of the “ideal” house?’ This tolerance of multiple solutions in architecture seems to contrast greatly with other disciplines, such as science, where there is a drive to search for evidence to prove that one particular theory is correct. This is where the complexity of the task must be broken down and understood internally in the mind of the individual and their interpretation of the problem expressed. No matter how similar their training and experience, no two architects working alone will ever produce an identical architectural proposal, even if those two architects are deeply sympathetic to each other’s ideas and have worked together for their entire career. In this respect the moment of design can be seen as an individual act. Design does not just require the solution of complex problems but relies on the individual to identify, state or define the design problem.