The term pattern in this context is usually attributed to Christopher Alexander,[1] an Austrian born American architect.
This may be distinct from common use of pattern books, which are collections of architectural plans which may be copied in new works.
Alexander's patterns seek to provide a source of proven ideas for individuals and communities to use in constructing their living and working environment.
A pattern records the design decisions taken by many builders in many places over many years in order to resolve a particular problem.
The patterns in that book were intended to enable communities to construct and modify their own homes, workplaces, towns and cities.