Design Like An Architect from Udemy

Using a unique method, in this course you’ll learn the professional way to draw architectural drawings with a pencil; a foolproof technique for designing architectural space using the building section; a system for analysing a site; a method for drawing a site plan; and a way of organising clear floor plans using a grid.

You’ll follow along as I design a small pottery studio right from the earliest concepts through to completed plans, sections and elevations. The design project is located on a real site on a lake shore in Ireland. Each new step in the design process is introduced in clear, easy to follow stages and there are some simple tasks to complete which are guaranteed to develop your skills.

No prior experience or skills are required except an ability to use either a metric or imperial scale rule. You’ll need some A4 or 8½ x 11 paper, an HB pencil and a handful of colored pencils.

This course is heavily focused on a particular technique in architectural design: the use of the building section to develop ideas about space.

There are six tutorials in total. Each is short, sharp and to the point. The presentation is brisk and lively. No time is wasted.

The course is ideal for students in their first year of architecture school or for those considering taking architecture in college.

What's inside

Learning objective

The complete basics of architecture and architectural design.

Syllabus

Introduction

Students will be introduced to a complete guide to the technique of architectural design.

On completion, students will be able to draw building plans and sections to a professional freehand standard and apply color, textures and shade to a building section just like an architect.

Students will be introduced to the simplest, most effective technique to design buildings architecturally: that is, the development of the building section. The technique will be explained with varied examples and simple follow along exercises.

In this tutorial students will complete a basic site analysis to a professional standard and use their analysis to develop a concept for their architectural design.

Students will learn a complete and comprehensive technique for designing building plans just as architects do using a fool-proof grid technique. The technique will be explained through multiple examples and easy to follow exercises.

The course is completed with tutorials on how to design effective building elevations and how to draw a convincing site plan.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on freehand drawing and the use of building sections, which are foundational skills for architectural design and representation

Emphasizes a specific technique using building sections to develop spatial ideas, which can add depth to a student's design process

Requires only basic materials like paper, pencils, and a scale ruler, making it accessible for students with limited resources

Ideal for first-year architecture students or those considering architecture, suggesting it provides a solid introduction to the field

Relies on A4 or 8½ x 11 paper, which may be limiting for learners who are accustomed to working with larger-format drawings

Reviews summary

Introduction to architectural design fundamentals

Learners say this course provides a solid foundation in architectural design principles using a unique hand-drawing technique focused on the building section. Many found the instruction clear and easy to follow, making it excellent for beginners or those considering architecture. While praised for its clarity and simplicity and the engaging step-by-step project, some mention it covers a limited scope, acting primarily as a introduction rather than an in-depth exploration.

Follows a single design project.

"Following the design of the pottery studio step-by-step was very helpful."

"The practical examples and exercises made the concepts easy to grasp."

"Liked how the course guides you through a single project from start to finish."

"The hands-on aspect of working through the project was the best part."

Instructor is clear and engaging.

"The instructor's explanations are clear and easy to understand."

"I found the presentation brisk and lively, as promised, keeping me engaged."

"The instructor's passion for the subject shines through and is motivating."

"His teaching style is straightforward and gets right to the point."

Emphasizes traditional pencil drawing.

"Loved going back to basics with pencil and paper! It felt very freeing."

"The hand-drawing exercises were relaxing and helped me visualize designs differently than digital tools."

"I appreciated the emphasis on traditional hand-drawing methods; it's a skill often overlooked today."

"Working through the drawings by hand made the concepts much more tangible for me."

Design method focuses on building section.

"The core idea of designing via the building section is incredibly insightful and a fresh perspective."

"This course provides a unique perspective on design, focusing on section drawing as the primary tool."

"Learning to use the building section first before plan was a game-changer for my design process approach."

"I really appreciated learning this specific technique of developing design through the building section."

Perfect introduction for beginners.

"As someone new to architecture, this course was the perfect starting point."

"The instructor explains complex ideas in a very accessible way for beginners."

"Requires no prior experience and builds skills from the ground up effectively."

"Great for students in their first year or those considering architecture."

Good foundation, limited overall scope.

"It's a good introduction but doesn't go into much detail on other design aspects."

"Felt like it only scratched the surface compared to a full design process."

"Great for foundational concepts but needs supplementation for more advanced topics."

"While clear, the course could benefit from covering a slightly broader range of concepts."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Design Like An Architect with these activities:

Practice Freehand Drawing

Show steps

Improve your freehand drawing skills to prepare for the course's emphasis on hand-drawn architectural designs.

Show steps

Find reference images of architectural details.
Practice sketching lines, shapes, and forms.
Focus on accuracy and proportion.

Create a Site Analysis Diagram

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of site analysis by creating a diagram that visually represents the key features of a chosen site.

Show steps

Select a site to analyze.
Gather information about the site's topography, climate, and surrounding context.
Create a diagram that visually represents the key features of the site.
Annotate the diagram with relevant information.

Review 'Architectural Graphics' by Francis D.K. Ching

Show steps

Study architectural drawing techniques to enhance your understanding of visual communication in design.

View Architectural Graphics on Amazon

Show steps

Read the chapters on freehand sketching and orthographic projections.
Practice the drawing exercises in the book.
Pay attention to the principles of line weight and composition.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Sketch a Building Section

Show steps

Practice the core skill of the course by creating a building section drawing of an existing building or a design concept.

Show steps

Draw a rough sketch of the building section.
Select a building or design concept.
Refine the drawing with details and annotations.
Add color and shading to enhance the visual impact.

Read 'Experiencing Architecture' by Steen Eiler Rasmussen

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of architectural design principles by exploring the sensory and emotional aspects of space.

View Experiencing Architecture on Amazon

Show steps

Read the chapters on light, sound, and color.
Reflect on how these elements affect your own experience of architecture.
Consider how you can use these elements to create more meaningful spaces.

Design a Small Cabin

Show steps

Apply the course's design principles to a small-scale project, reinforcing your understanding of space planning and architectural drawing.

Show steps

Choose a site for the cabin.
Develop a concept for the cabin's design.
Create floor plans, sections, and elevations.
Present your design with drawings and sketches.

Create a Collection of Architectural Inspiration

Show steps

Expand your design vocabulary and develop your personal style by compiling a collection of inspiring architectural examples.

Show steps

Gather images and articles of buildings that you find inspiring.
Organize the materials into a digital or physical collection.
Annotate the materials with your thoughts and observations.

Career center

Learners who complete Design Like An Architect will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Architect

The role of an Architect is deeply rooted in design and the creation of building plans, making this course a strong fit. Architects conceptualize, plan, and oversee the construction of buildings, requiring a keen understanding of spatial design for effective communication. This course addresses the fundamentals of architectural drawing with pencil, a core skill for architects, and a unique method for designing architectural space using the building section. This is a very specific technical skill taught in this course and a technique directly used by practicing architects. Working through a small pottery studio design will help you experience the entire process from concept to completed plans, sections, and elevations, typical work for architects. This course also helps build a foundation in site analysis, using a site plan, and organizing floor plans using a grid, all of which are essential to the work of an Architect.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architect

Architectural Designer

An Architectural Designer focuses on the aesthetic and functional aspects of building design, making this course highly relevant. Architectural Designers work closely with architects, engineers, and clients to develop design concepts, prepare plans and specifications, and contribute to the overall design process. This course's approach to architectural drawing with pencil and a unique way of using the building section resonates perfectly with the daily tasks of an Architectural Designer. The course project on a real site in Ireland, which includes the design and planning from concept to finished plan, can provide a strong practical experience. The course may also be helpful by focusing on site analysis with a focus on site plans and grid based floor plans. It is a good introduction for those seeking to gain hands on design skills for this position.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architectural Designer

Draftsperson

A Draftsperson prepares technical drawings and plans based on designs and specifications provided by architects, engineers, and designers. This course can be highly beneficial for a Draftsperson because it focuses on the core skills of architectural drawing. Learning how to draw architectural drawings with a pencil, which the course emphasizes, is fundamental to a Draftsperson's work. The course's method for designing architectural space by using the building section and its system for analyzing a site will also be useful. A Draftsperson must be able to create clear and accurate plans and sections, and following the course's pottery studio design project, from its concept to completion, will help build this skill. The course may also be helpful in developing the skills required to use grids to plan floor spaces, a very common task for Draftspeople.

See salaries and explore the career path for Draftsperson

Interior designer

Interior Designers are responsible for the design and functionality of interior spaces, and this course may be useful. While interior design focuses on the inside of a building, a foundation in architectural plans and sections is useful. The course's method for developing a space using the building section provides a way to analyze and create interior designs for clients. Although Interior Designers are not responsible for site analysis or site plans, they may have to rely on the existing layout and therefore would benefit from the course's techniques for floor planning using a grid. A deep understanding of architectural layouts can often play a significant role in interior design and will help an Interior Designer effectively communicate with architects and contractors. The course serves as a helpful foundation for interior design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer

Urban Planner

An Urban Planner develops plans and programs for land use, community growth, and infrastructure development, and this course may be useful. While Urban Planning works at a larger scale, having a foundational understanding of site analysis, site plans, and the organization of space is an asset. This course specifically provides techniques for a site analysis and a method for designing site plans, which are elements an Urban Planner might find helpful. The course's focus on designing floor plans using a grid is also relevant to understanding building footprint and placement. Though this course is not specifically focused on urban design, it would be helpful by providing exposure to the spatial design aspects of architecture. It will be a helpful introduction for an Urban Planner.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Construction Manager

A Construction Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects, making this course potentially helpful. While this role does not require architectural design skills, an understanding of architectural drawings, plans, and sections is beneficial. This course helps build a better ability to interpret and understand the plans that a Construction Manager relies on to perform their job. The course's focus on the development of the building section and the design of floor plans would be useful for visualizing and understanding the spatial dimensions of a project. An understanding of architectural design can help a Construction Manager understand the overall scope of the project, so this course may be helpful as an introduction into the world of architectural design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Manager

Landscape Architect

Landscape Architects design and plan outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and other landscapes, and this course may be helpful. While their focus is on exterior design, landscape architects still work with scaled drawings and site analysis, and might benefit from this course's content. This course provides instruction on site analysis and the design of site plans, areas that a Landscape Architect must understand. This course's content on using the building section and floor plans may also be useful for a Landscape Architect to have a clearer understanding for building placement and relationships. The course may be useful in helping those who work in landscape architecture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Set Designer

A Set Designer creates the visual environment for theater, film, and television productions, making this course may be useful. While the scale and context differ from architectural projects, the principle of designing spatial arrangements is still useful. The course provides a method for using the building section to design architectural space, which is analogous to the way a set designer works. Set designers must be able to create accurate drawings of spaces and this course focuses on the use of pencil drawing. The course may be useful by providing the basic skills to create floor plans and section drawings that are critical for communicating with the construction crew which will bring the Set Designer's vision to life.

See salaries and explore the career path for Set Designer

Exhibit Designer

An Exhibit Designer creates engaging and informative displays for museums, galleries, and other public spaces. This course may be useful for Exhibit Designers. There are similarities in the need to plan spaces, and a knowledge of plan and section drawing can help visualize layouts of displays. This course's approach which focuses on a plan drawing technique may be beneficial to an Exhibit Designer, as well as its method for developing the building section, which may help with the basic layout of an exhibit. The course could be helpful in providing this foundation though the content matter remains focused on the architecture of a building, rather than exhibit spaces.

See salaries and explore the career path for Exhibit Designer

Real Estate Developer

A Real Estate Developer manages the process of developing land for a variety of uses. This course may be useful in helping a Real Estate Developer better understand a building's design aspects. Although a real estate developer does not design, having a working knowledge of site analysis, site plans, and floor plans is beneficial. This course may be useful in understanding the process of drawing architectural plans and sections and how they relate to a building's design and location. The course may provide a greater understanding of aspects of a project that a Real Estate Developer might be involved with, though they do not typically rely on the skills taught in the course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Developer

Civil Engineer

A Civil Engineer designs and oversees the construction of infrastructure projects, like roads, bridges, and water systems. This course may be useful for a Civil Engineer who must understand architectural drawings and their relationship to site layout and planning. The course's introduction to site analysis and plan creation could be a helpful reference for the Civil Engineer. The course focuses on site and building organization, which can help a Civil Engineer think more holistically about their projects. This course may provide a foundation in technical drawing and design principles, though its primary focus is on building design rather than civil infrastructure.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Facilities Manager

A Facilities Manager is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of buildings, and this course may be useful. Though a Facilities Manager is not involved in the design of buildings, having a working knowledge of the various plans and sections is beneficial. The course's emphasis on building plans, sections and elevations may help Facilities Managers maintain and understand the structure and details of the buildings that are under their care. A course like this may help a Facilities Manager become more capable when they are reviewing plans and working with contractors, though the techniques themselves are not directly used by Facilities Managers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Facilities Manager

Project Manager

A Project Manager oversees projects from initiation to completion, and this course may be helpful. Though a Project Manager does not use the skills of architectural design, they may have to manage projects that involve architectural work, so a foundational understanding of the plans, sections, and elevations of a building would be useful. The course focuses on a method for using building sections in the design of buildings, which can help a Project Manager in understanding the projects they manage. This course will not be as helpful as other courses focused on project management, but it may be useful as a way of learning more about the building trades.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Construction Estimator

A Construction Estimator calculates the cost of materials and labor for construction projects. While this role is not focused on design, a grasp of architectural plans is important and this course may help strengthen these abilities. The course focuses on the development of architectural plans, drawings, and sections, which are all materials an estimator depends on. This course may enable a Construction Estimator to work with plans more efficiently. Though the course does not directly discuss how costs are calculated, it may be helpful to gain more familiarity with architectural plans.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Estimator

Building Inspector

A Building Inspector examines buildings to ensure they comply with safety and building codes, and this course may be useful. This course focuses on how to draw architectural plans, sections and elevations, which are all items that a Building Inspector encounters on the job. This course may be helpful as a way to better understand the plans and sections that a Building Inspector will need to read through, though it is not focused on the codes that the inspector is trained in. This course may be useful as an introduction to reading architectural plans and sections.

See salaries and explore the career path for Building Inspector

Design Like An Architect

What's inside

Learning objective

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Introduction to architectural design fundamentals

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses