>>7484091Good question.
Typically, it starts with a specific shape or idea, something like a car's grille or a window shape, then I first make sure it's actually possible to make in LDD or irl if I have the pieces before basically moulding a car or facade around this shape. I usually build things in LDD first, then start putting them together irl to see what pieces I'm missing and need to order.
>In-universe roleThis is something I generally like to think about and consider when restricting/freeing myself and adding details to a build. If I'm building a family car for example, I want it to be able to actually carry a family. Pic related needed two seats and a furnished kitchen that fits at least a minifigure for me to be satisfied. If I'm making an aerodynamic racecar, it doesn't need more than one seat, but I'll try fitting a proper seat and maybe a rollcage in it. On the other side, if I were to make an eternally parked car that's essentially a prop, I wouldn't necessarily bother with any of these.
Sometimes I have more general ideas as to what to build, maybe I have a couple of pieces screaming to be used for something, but these builds usually take a lot longer to finish. For example I bought 60149 some months ago, built the trailer and catamaran, and have since been planning to build the car in my own style, but it's missing that initial spark to really get started. Sometimes that loosens up when just smacking pieces together, thankfully.
