Preliminary Sketches

            The basic thrust of art in architecture is to establish a means (art) through which to convey the thought (architectural design).  The basic method available to the architect is the method of sketching.

            Sketching is a practice which has an affect on all aspects of architecture design practice. The influences can be seen in some ways by the following list of the attributes of sketching.

The practice of sketching:

• Establishes precedents in form
• Allows a collection of ideas to form (historical or visionary)
• Historical references reinforce the ideology of learning from the masters. By replicating the forms and details, we can gain a better understanding of their solution, thereby learning how to possibly achieve these solutions in future works.
• Creates a better "feel" for materials as one learns methods by which to illustrate the texture, form and solidity of various elements.

            Sketching is also an important tool in developing the artistic influence of the architect. No matter how poorly a person may feel they draw, everyone has the ability to sketch the most basic of forms and ideas.  Sketching is not meant to be a replication of something, it is meant to illustrate the idea and therefore, it may take many forms by individuals.

            As design is the principal element being explored within this section, it is important to note that sketching represents one of the earliest aspects of seeking a design solution.

            The basic theory of sketching within architecture is to put forth the idea, not illustrate it. Architectural sketches of concepts may take on the basic form of the parti without actually illustrating a specific building element.  Sketches may comprise a series of tableaus which together tell the story of what the building will be.

            Sketching reduces the practice of illustration to the basic elements.  Sketching should provide the 'essence' of the architecture, not necessarily the detail of it.

The following links will load preliminary sketches completed as part of the thought process of design.  These sketches in no way represent the final solution.  They are merely a part of the process in developing the language and concepts relative to the final solution.