The roots of design can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where architecture and decorative arts played a crucial role.

The Egyptians, for instance, created monumental structures like the pyramids, which were not only feats of engineering but also examples of intricate design. Their use of geometric shapes and symmetrical layouts laid the foundation for later design principles.

In ancient Greece and Rome, design was heavily influenced by mathematical precision and aesthetic harmony. Greek architecture, with its emphasis on proportion and order, is epitomized by structures like the Parthenon. The Romans advanced these ideas, integrating functionality with beauty in their aqueducts, bridges, and public buildings. The use of columns, arches, and domes in Roman architecture influenced design for centuries to come.

The medieval period saw the rise of Gothic architecture, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.

These elements were not only structural innovations but also contributed to the aesthetic grandeur of cathedrals such as Notre-Dame de Paris. The intricate stained glass windows and detailed carvings of this period reflected the importance of religious symbolism in design.