Isn't that how many people program too? I remember some idea or pattern from previous projects, or something I read about on the internet. Then I code it in the most straighforward way, whatever comes to mind first. Then I sit back and analyze: does it look good architecturally? Do I like it? Does it even compile? Then I rewrite some parts to make it more sound. Rinse and repeat, until I'm satisfied. I usually don't come up with entirely novel ideas on the first attempt. I usually just rehash known concepts over the course of many iterations.