+353 1 902 3944
design@dublindesignstudio.com
How drawing can strengthen memory
Feb 26, 2020
Why do we remember better when we put pen to paper?
People are always looking for more effective ways to retain information. It’s the challenge of every student studying for their next exam, and every designer visualizing their next project.
A notebook and pen have traditionally been the golden standard for taking down important information. But since the introduction of laptops, tablets and smart devices into our workplaces and lecture halls, our reliability on pen and paper has fallen to the wayside.
There is evidence
that using a pen allows us to store information to short-term memory more effectively than using other implements, such as a keyboard.
In the same way, our brains are able to better visualise our design projects when we take to sketching before jumping into a digital design suite. While sketching allows us to quickly draft solutions and explore new concepts, there is evidence
that drawing is also an effective method of enhancing one’s memory.
What do our brains do when we write?
Simply listening to a conversation, a lecture or a phone call will activate the part of our brain that processes language. But, while processing new information in the moment, the brain cannot always discern between which information is more or less important – and ultimately which materials should be remembered.
A perfect example of this is the art of courtroom sketching. In previous times, cameras were not allowed in courtrooms. In some jurisdictions it was not allowed to sketch during court and artists had to rely on their memory and notes when depicting the courtroom. These artists were only allowed to take notes during the hearing and had to create their sketches after leaving the courtroom. This an impressive feat of memory, and sheds light on the importance of notes and how sketching can enhance one's memory.
When we engage in the physical act of writing or drawing however, our brain establishes neural links that allow us to connect new ideas and concepts. A brain that is both listening and writing does not necessarily remember more than a brain that is only listening, but it does structure the new information such that it can prioritize and retain key ideas.
But what does this mean in an age where notebooks and pens have been replaced by keyboards and iPad devices? Are we connecting the same cognitive pathways when we transcribe information using a laptop, rather than pen and paper?
Writing can strengthen your memory
It’s no surprise that note-takers can transcribe more words in the same amount of time with a keyboard instead of a pen in hand. But it is substantiated that pen scribblers are more likely to develop a stronger understanding of the content, and to successfully apply and integrate new information ahead of their keyboard tapping peers.
Using a pen helps us to remember important information because in the act of writing or sketching, our brains are actively working to isolate and process key information. It is an act of “mental lifting” that exercises our cognitive processes and forces us to develop a meaningful understanding of the information.
Although pen and paper is the recommended method, keeping track of one’s various documents raises an issue that makes tablets and smartphones a more attractive option. How then, can we marry the processes of writing and drawing with the convenience of current day technologies?
The obvious answer is the stylus pen.
Scriba is a revolutionary digital stylus that is ergonomically designed to comfortably fit your hand and uses unique Squeeze-Motion technology. Order here.
Articles
Strategies for Sustainable Home Design
Making more of less
Depending on your point of view, bungalows are either a cherished affordable house type that allowed homeowners of the 1970s the chance to realise the dream of owning their own home or the result of poor planning and insensitive sprawl, as epitomised by the cookie cutter designs of “Bungalow Bliss” which sold over a quarter-of-a-million copies; roughly one for every second household in the countryside. Times are changing, and as families grow, we increase our understanding of the environmental and financial costs of heating a home, and as lifestyles evolve, the need for additional space and adapting these dwellings becomes inevitable. Adapting these structures and embracing modernity doesn’t mean knocking them down and starting again. The concept of extending bungalows into contemporary dormer houses is gaining popularity. Here we explore the exciting opportunities of extending bungalows on tricky sites, offering a fresh perspective on creating modern dormer houses in Ireland. Utilising Challenging Terrain Ireland's diverse topography often presents architects with tricky sites. From sloping terrain to irregularly shaped plots, these challenges can be turned into design assets. Dormer houses perfectly adapt to such sites, as their design accommodates varying elevations and allows for creative use of space. By integrating well-planned dormers into the extension, architects can exploit the unique terrain to create stunning living spaces that embrace the beauty of the surroundings. Capturing Natural Light One of the standout features of dormer houses is their ability to maximise natural light. In Ireland, where weather patterns can be unpredictable, capturing ample sunlight is invaluable. Through careful positioning of dormer windows, skylights, and glazed walls, we can find ways to bathe the extended bungalow in natural light throughout the day. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes a sense of openness and connection with nature. Expanding Living Space The primary motivation behind extending a bungalow is to increase living space. Modern dormer houses take full advantage of this opportunity by offering versatile and spacious interiors. Homeowners can embrace open-plan layouts that seamlessly blend the old and new sections of the house. The addition of dormer windows and vaulted ceilings creates the illusion of more space and fosters an inviting atmosphere. Adapting to Growing Families As families grow, their needs evolve. Dormer houses provide a solution for growing families by offering additional bedrooms and living areas. This adaptability ensures that the extended bungalow remains a practical and cherished home for generations to come. We can strategically plan the layout to provide privacy and comfort, balancing communal and private spaces. Sustainable Design Choices In creating a modern-dormer house, there is the opportunity to incorporate sustainable design practises. By using energy-efficient materials and technologies, we can create eco-friendly extensions that blend seamlessly with the existing bungalow. Renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and air-source heat pumps, can be integrated into the roof design, contributing to reduced energy consumption and a smaller carbon footprint. Embracing Contemporary Aesthetics While preserving the charm of the original bungalow, the extension can embrace contemporary aesthetics. Modern dormer houses can feature clean lines, minimalist facades, and a mix of materials like wood, stone, and metal. The incorporation of natural elements ensures that the extension blends harmoniously with the Irish landscape, creating a visually stunning architectural masterpiece. Conclusion Extending bungalows on tricky sites to create modern dormer houses opens up a world of possibilities for homeowners. By thoughtfully integrating dormer windows, maximising natural light, and embracing sustainable design practises, these extensions can become unique and practical living spaces that cater to evolving family needs. As the demand for more space and modern living solutions continues to grow, the transformation of traditional bungalows into contemporary dormer houses will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the architectural landscape of Ireland.