Good design defines a space of possible physical configurations, not one specific configuration.
Provide so much latitude that it could lead the team or your future self to arrive at a configuration nobody could anticipate (because we can’t know until the realities of a project unfold), while *still* satisfying the system of relationships that make it fulfill its purpose.
It's one thing to say: "Design a kitchen."
It's another thing to say, "Here are the specific and fixed-scope blueprints of the kitchen; go build it."
And it's yet another thing to say: "A good kitchen has windows giving light from two sides. The counters are long and generous along the south side to get the light. Place a big table in the middle and light it from above to create an eating atmosphere."
The latter is a very limited example of a better working description that can enable your future self and/or others to work within constraints while leaving the specifics open according to the realities of the project.
Enough latitude to enable breakthroughs. Firm boundaries to enable agreement. Specifics when hard-earned knowledge informs decisions. Trust when we know that capable people can work it out themselves.
Images courtesy of Christopher Alexander.
3. Generative Design Writing