The Art of Drawing and Architecture

Architects do not simply draw, by inscribing a line on paper they create an idea that transforms a flat surface into a virtual space to be consumed, studied and shaped. To develop this level of phenomenon the architect produces different types of drawings: design, presentation and construction, just to name a select few, which have developed historically over many centuries. Although the architect uses basically the same type of tools and drawing materials that have been standard for hundreds of years, the art of drawing is far from the same. The architect’s role is to be a creator of form, a design specialist who will initiate and lead a design process. In the early phases of design they first must produce a series of design drawings, or typical study drawings which are the designer’s principal means of thinking. The presentation aspect of drawings are a major part of the design development as the architect refines their idea and design into clear, coordinated set of drawings following all aspects of the design. Once the client has approved of the fully developed design or additional design issues that have emerged have been addressed, construction drawings are then produced. In the final phase of the design process the architect must not only provide drawings readable to engineers, construction workers and high officials, but must also include all details required per city, county and federal guidelines. These drawings are those to study and explore the proposed constructions. The word ‘drawing’ denotes a variety of visual imagery, aspect, detail, perspective and study to successfully enter the viewer and occupy their mind with vigorous and outstanding ideas.

An architect’s previous thoughts, images and experiences strongly inf...

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...those of their client. Study drawings are completely for the architect’s personal way of thinking before they can be developed further. Presentation drawings are essential and entirely for the clients, to bring architectural drawing down to a level which can be understood by whoever viewed them. They are in place so that the client can decide whether or not they like or dislike the design and construction can commence. Lastly, the construction drawings are for the architect to communicate to the builders who will construct the design, without these the buildings could never be stably completed, at least in modern architecture. Since the late 18th century architectural drawings have been prized and purchased by collectors and then maximised their prosperity by exhibiting them as works of art. Architects do not simply draw; they create and inscribe an idea.