Abstract
Architectural design needs systematic approaches to manage complexity in the early design process stage and to address sustainable building requirements. Architects often use previous experiences and knowledge to stimulate the early conjecture of possible solutions repeatedly until a satisfactory solution is defined. Possible use of an engineering design framework such as Axiomatic Design (AD) is studied with a case study on a small sustainable house design. High-level requirements are defined and decomposed into a manageable set of requirements. This study shows the potentialities of applying AD to support the initial architect’s decision-making activity for the development of sustainable solutions.