This paper reports on the exploration of the architectural design process involving both the expression of the intuitive and tacit as well as the rational and explicit. The purpose is finding out the role and influence of design approaches and design methods within the design process regarding these opposites by reflecting on my own process in two design experiments. Results show that, although very differently perceived, design approaches and methods are of significant importance functioning as the overarching structure. It is the dialogue between the tacit and explicit, the intuitive and rational, that shapes the design process. The acknowledgement and awareness of this fact can help communication between teachers and students but also architects and clients about the content of the design process, which too often is perceived as an unexplainable and mystique process.