Introduction Pattern Languages
What is a Pattern Language?
A Pattern is a repeated occurrence of a feature or phenomenon in a particular space. It can consist of smaller more basic patterns, and further support larger patterns that come after it. Each pattern differs in scope, complexity and specificity.
A Pattern language is simply a collection of patterns for a particular field or context.
Christopher Alexander’s 1977 book ‘A Pattern language’ (Left) was the pioneering piece of work that defined the term. His language pertained to patterns in architecture and urban planning that affect both the physical and sociological surroundings of resident communities.
Examples of Patterns from the Original Book
Adapting the Original Pattern Language to Different Fields
Image Source: Helmut Leitner ”Working with Patterns: An Introduction”
Since Alexander’s Original work, innumerable replications of his pattern language have been made for different fields, from design to computer science to gardening. Takashi Iba from Keio University later built upon the work of Alexander, and has co-created dozens of pattern languages at Iba Labs consisting of over 1600 patterns for a variety of fields.
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