Free Hand Sketches - The Voices Of An Architect

By Tom Tripp

FREE HAND SKETCHES - THE VOICES OF A ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER allow architects to give life to their ideas easily. Indeed, it is through the capturing ideas rapidly that he or she can keep a record of moments in time. This doodling, which may inhabit a notebook or just a stray scrap of paper, helps the artist see and remember as well.

There are many advantages to working freely. One is that an idea is captured with an immediacy that keeps it fresh. Since getting the idea down is the goal, a scribbled drawing is likely to disregard scale, include variations in line width, and may be so abstract that only the person doing it can full translate the result.

Why are sketches made? Sometimes it is helpful in a future project. At other times the appeal of patterns and ornaments are exciting on their own terms. Whatever becomes a part of the drawing notebook offers a record of lessons learned.

Training the eye to see better is also a reason designers may sketch. Developing the habit of working by hand aids in building a body of knowledge that can grow. When representing two-dimensional designs of three-dimensional spaces, a basic comprehension of how the two differs is learned through an ongoing sketching practice. Unlike a computer program, the rules will not change when an update is released.

Many think it is unfortunate that computer use has taken some away from executing without machines. Those who are dependent on software miss out on the pleasures of drawing. There are also fewer options for unique expression when tools are based more on a programming language than embodied skills.

In summary, free hand sketches - the voices of a architectural designer are always available. No electricity is needed. Creating by hand works on site, at the beach, and is available even if the computer isn't.

About the Author: