This research in progress introduces the concept of kernel philosophy to advance prior discussions concerning design, meta-design, the underlying rationale of design, and the assumptions and values of which a design rationale rests upon. Consequently, the present research proposes philosophy as a kernel that ingrains the assumptions and values of a design rationale, and how an active use of kernel philosophy may establish a reflective attitude to-wards design in information systems research, through two main features (1) sense-making of design/meta-design and (2) inspiring the design/meta-design process. Finally, the paper pro-vides a brief demonstration of kernel philosophy in use and ends with a brief discussion con-cerning limitations and future research.