Architecture

What Is Presentation Drawing In Architecture

What Is Presentation Drawing In Architecture

Main topic: what is presentation drawing in architecture.

Presentation drawing in architecture is a creative visual form of communication used to convey information about buildings, structures, and other aspects of the built environment. It is an important part of the architect’s skill set and allows them to effectively communicate their ideas. Presentation drawing is used to demonstrate a building’s layout, materials, and its spatial qualities. The drawings present a designer’s understanding of the project and support their design concept.

The modern use of drawings in architectural presentation dates back to Vitruvius, a Roman architect who wrote a treatise in 30 BC on the use of drawings in buildings. Vitruvius explain how to use plans, elevations, and cross-sections to communicate the design ideas of the buildings. Presentation drawings are used to provide an accurate representation of the project and aid in the design process. It can be a powerful tool used to visualizes a architects’ work.

To start the presentation drawing process, an architect first creates a detailed design concept. This concept establishes the parameters for the presentation drawing including materials, aesthetics, and spatial qualities. All of these elements combined represent the architect’s vision for the project. The process is then broken down into two parts: the schematic and the technical drawing. The schematic drawing is a more abstract representation of the project while the technical drawing is a more detailed and accurate representation.

The schematic drawing conveys the general idea of the project by communicating the layout and orientation of the space. The schematic drawing is often a compilation of sketches, diagrams, and renderings. It is a creative way to give an overview of the design concept. The technical drawing uses more precise renderings to describe the construction of the project. It gives a more accurate portrayal of the design. It typically includes measurements, material selections, and other specific details about the design.

What Is Presentation Drawing In Architecture

Presentation drawings are used in a variety of ways in architectural designs. They are used to communicate ideas and designs to the building owners, clients, and contractors. Presentation drawings are also used to make sure that all parties are on the same page and that the project is being built correctly as per the architect’s design.

Additional Topic 1: Types Of Presentation Drawing In Architecture

In architecture, there are several types of presentation drawing. The most common are plans, sections, elevations, and renderings. Plans describe the horizontal layout of a structure and show floor plans, site plans, and other overhead views. Sections are views taken in the vertical plane and show how the building is composed in depth and height. Elevations are plans or sections with added detail, such as the types of materials used and the architectural finishes of the structure. Renderings are highly defined visual illustrations that usually include different lighting and color, showing a realistic image of a completed building or structure.

Other forms of presentation drawing include schematics, which provide an abstract representation of the intended design, and technical drawings which are more detailed, accurate representations. Other forms of presentation drawing include isometric drawings, which are three-dimensional sketches that give a sense of depth and perspective of the project, axonometric drawings, which are skewed, three-dimensional views, and change-of-scale drawings, which show how two different objects, such as two floors, compare in size and layout.

Presentation drawings are a powerful tool used in architecture to communicate ideas and designs to all parties involved in a project. They provide a clear visual representation of the project and help in the design process by showing the layout, materials, and spatial qualities of the intended project.

Additional Topic 2: Benefits Of Presentation Drawing In Architecture

What Is Presentation Drawing In Architecture

Presentation drawings are essential to architecture. They are used to communicate ideas, designs, and visuals to all parties involved in a project. The benefits of presentation drawings in architecture are numerous. The presentation drawings provide a clear and concise way of explaining a building or structure to everyone involved in the design process. They can also help to avoid potential problems by providing an accurate representation of the project and communicating to all parties the specific details of the project.

Using presentation drawings aid in the design process by helping architects visualize their project. By sketching and diagramming their ideas, architects can better understand the project and set up their design process accordingly. Drawing also helps designers think creatively. By drawing their ideas, they can more easily explore different possibilities and make informed decisions.

Presentation drawings are also used to explain a design to the project’s stakeholders. By providing a clear visual representation of a project, architects can obtain the approvals they need to execute their project. Furthermore, presentation drawings provide a common language for all parties involved in a project, allowing all parties to understand the design concept in the same way.

Presentation drawings are a valuable tool in architecture. They provide a clear and concise way to explain design concepts and help aid in the design process. Through the use of drawings, architects can better explain their projects to all parties involved in the project and ensure the project is being executed correctly.

Additional Topic 3: Challenges Of Presentation Drawing In Architecture

What Is Presentation Drawing In Architecture

Presentation drawings are an essential tool used in architecture to communicate ideas, designs, and visuals to all parties involved in a project. However, there are some challenges associated with presentationdrawing. The most severe challenge for architects when creating presentation drawings is time. Architects must create the drawings in a timely fashion in order to ensure the project moves forward. Furthermore, the drawings need to accurately portray an architect’s vision and be comprehensive enough to show all relevant aspects of the project.

Another challenge of presentation drawing is making sure all parties involved are on the same page. The drawings must accurately portray the concept and provide enough detail to explain the project to everyone involved. Furthermore, the drawings need to appear professional and presentable in order to obtain the necessary approvals to execute the project.

Presentation drawings require a great deal of time and effort. Architects must ensure that their drawings are accurate, comprehensive, and professional in order to convey the desired design concept. In order to avoid any potential problems, architects must spend adequate time in creating the drawings and double check their accuracy before submitting them.

Additional Topic 4: Best Practices For Presentation Drawing In Architecture

The best way to ensure effective presentation drawing is to use a systematic approach. By breaking down the drawings into smaller parts, architects can more easily understand the project and create accurate representations of the desired outcome. Furthermore, a systematic approach helps to create drawings that are easily understandable and allows for quick edits and changes if needed.

What Is Presentation Drawing In Architecture

Another best practice for presentation drawing is to create a set of presentation standards. By establishing a standard set of criteria, architects can ensure that their presentation drawings are professional and accurate. This also helps all stakeholders to comprehend the vision of the project.

Finally, it is important for architects to keep their drawings organized. By organizing the drawings into small manageable parts, architects can quickly edit, modify, or update their designs. This also saves time when creating new drawings as any previously used drawings can be found easily.

Presentation drawing is an important part of architecture. It is a powerful tool used to communicate ideas and concepts to all parties involved in a project. By following best practices and using a systematic approach, architects can create accurate and professional presentation drawings that accurately portray their vision.

what is presentation drawings

Anita Johnson

Anita Johnson is an award-winning author and editor with over 15 years of experience in the fields of architecture, design, and urbanism. She has contributed articles and reviews to a variety of print and online publications on topics related to culture, art, architecture, and design from the late 19th century to the present day. Johnson's deep interest in these topics has informed both her writing and curatorial practice as she seeks to connect readers to the built environment around them.

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what is presentation drawings

Presentation Drawing

The importance of presentation drawing.

Presentation drawing, also known as a rendering, is a crucial aspect of the design process. It's a means of visually communicating ideas to clients, colleagues, and contractors. Presentation drawings can take many forms, from quick sketches to highly detailed, realistic illustrations. Regardless of the format, the goal of presentation drawing is to convey the essence of a design in a visually compelling way.

The Types of Presentation Drawing

There are several types of presentation drawing, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Here are four of the most common types of presentation drawing:

Sketches are quick, informal drawings that are used to explore ideas and communicate concepts. They are typically done by hand using pencil or pen and paper. Sketches are valuable because they allow designers to express their ideas quickly and without the need for expensive tools or software. That said, sketches are generally less polished than other forms of presentation drawing, so they may not be suitable for more formal presentations.

Concept Drawings

Concept drawings are more detailed than sketches and are intended to convey a more developed idea. They are still relatively informal, but they often incorporate color and shading to give the drawing depth and texture. Concept drawings can be done by hand or using digital tools like Photoshop or SketchUp.

Renderings are highly detailed, realistic illustrations of a design. They are typically created using 3D modeling software and are intended to give clients and colleagues a sense of what a finished project will look like. Renderings are often used in marketing materials and presentations because they are visually impressive and highly detailed.

Construction Documents

Construction documents are highly technical drawings that are used to communicate specific details about a project to contractors and builders. They include things like floor plans, elevations, and sections, and they are typically created using a combination of hand drawing and computer software.

Tips for Effective Presentation Drawing

Regardless of the type of presentation drawing you are creating, there are a few tips that can help ensure that your drawing is effective and communicates your ideas clearly.

Focus on Legibility

One of the most important aspects of presentation drawing is legibility. Your drawing should be easy to read and understand, even when viewed from a distance. Make sure that you use a font size and style that is easy to read, and avoid cluttering your drawing with unnecessary details that can distract from the main ideas you are trying to convey.

Choose the Right Format

Different types of presentation drawing are better suited to different formats. Sketches, for example, are best presented on paper or on a whiteboard. Renderings, on the other hand, are best viewed on a large screen or printed out at a high resolution. Make sure that you choose the right format for your drawing to ensure that it is presented in the most effective way possible.

Use Color Wisely

Color can be a powerful tool in presentation drawing, but it must be used wisely. Too much color can be distracting, while too little color can make your drawing look flat and lifeless. Use color to highlight important details and to create depth and texture in your drawing, but be sure to use it sparingly.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key in presentation drawing. Make sure that your drawing is consistent in terms of scale, proportion, and style. This will ensure that it is easy to read and that your ideas are communicated clearly.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Finally, the best way to improve your presentation drawing skills is to practice. Take the time to practice drawing different types of illustrations, and experiment with different tools and techniques to find what works best for you. The more you practice, the better you will become at conveying your ideas visually.

The Bottom Line

Presentation drawing is an essential aspect of the design process. It allows designers to communicate their ideas in a clear and compelling way and is crucial for getting buy-in from clients, colleagues, and contractors. Whether you're creating quick sketches or detailed renderings, there are a few key principles to keep in mind that can help ensure that your presentation drawing is effective and communicates your ideas clearly.

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10 Tips for Creating Stunning Architecture Project Presentation

Architectural design projects are the life and soul of architecture school . As a student, you are always working on one, and somehow it becomes what your life is revolving around.

You would give it every possible effort and believe you have done your best, but on jury day, when you see everyone else’s project you could lose a bit of your confidence, not because your project is any less, but because your presentation is lacking.

The architecture project presentation might not be the core of the project, but it surely influences the viewer. It can also be considered an indicator of your artistic skills and sense as a designer.

what is presentation drawings

[irp posts=’151929′]

While you shouldn’t be completely dependable on positive results from a merely eye-catching architecture project presentation, you still need to give an adequate amount of time to properly plan it in a way that communicates your idea best. Your architecture professor might credit you for a creative design regardless of the presentation, but your future client might only see the presentation, so make it a habit, to involve your design skills in all aspects of your project, starting now.

Besides the essential tips and tutorials for photoshop architectural rendering that will definitely improve your board, here, we will give you some basic tips on how to create a Stunning Architecture Project Presentation . So, let’s get started.

Architecture Project Presentation Board Tips

1) size and orientation.

what is presentation drawings

Most of the time your professors restrict you to specific board sizes and the number of boards. If that is the case then you need to confirm if your boards should be presented in Landscape or Portrait orientation. You, also, need to decide if you will be presenting your board side by side as one big board, one poster of equivalent size, or as separate boards that come in sequence.

what is presentation drawings

Now, that you have a base to work on you need to start planning the layout of your boards or poster:

  • If you are presenting hand drawings then you can do prior planning on one or more A4 paper sheets for example. Try to make an accurate estimation of the space needed per each drawing and the buffering space you would like to leave around each.

what is presentation drawings

  • If you will be presenting CAD drawings, then this might be easier. You can experiment with the actual drawings on CAD Layout or Photoshop if you will be rendering your project digitally.
  • You can use a grid system to organize your drawings. Decide on a unit width, for example, 6cm, then use its multiples to create unit areas to contain your drawings, like for instance, 12cm for outer frame buffering, 36cm for main drawings and so.

Do This Or that! Here is an example!

3) placement and zoning.

what is presentation drawings

Think of the way you would like the viewers to circulate through your presentation, what you would like them to see first, how they would best understand your project. For example, you may start by brief site analysis, then move to the concept statement and its illustrative sketches if needed.

  • If your concept is form-based you may need to show the form first, before the plan, then move to the plan to reveal how the form has functionally worked out.
  • If your concept is in the plan itself, then you may move directly to the plan and conclude with the rendered exterior form as usual.

Drawing and Rendering Tips

4) background.

what is presentation drawings

Dark Background

It is called “background” for a reason. It should be a platform to feature your drawings as the main focus, clear of any distractions. Some students use faded renderings of their own projects as background, but this can be seriously diverting. White backgrounds are best, as they show the true colors of your project.

Some opt to use a black background to stand out, however, that doesn’t usually turn out so well. It may cause halation and strain for sensitive eyes.

what is presentation drawings

Black and white presentation

There are many ways you can render your projects, choose the one you excel at and shows your project best.

  • There is the Black & White or Greyscale presentation where you only show lines with various thicknesses, in addition to shade and shadow.
  • There is the greyscale presentation with an element of color where you would choose one bright color, for example, green for landscape and greenery, to contrast with the, generally, achromatic drawings.
  • One color might become two colors revealing different materials like wood or bricks and glass for example.

what is presentation drawings

Presentation with a Color Scheme on Greyscale

All, these previous techniques would work out fine if colors are not the main focus in your project, however, if there is an idea behind your color scheme or the used materials, or there are many details that will go lost in greyscale, then there is no way out.

You need to fully color or at least broaden the color palette for your presentation.

what is presentation drawings

Colored Presentation

The manual achromatic presentation can be via graphic pencils and ink, and the colored elements can be executed using watercolor, markers, brush pens, or pastels. For digital presentations, you can use Adobe Photoshop as the most commonly used tool. You can even mimic the aesthetic of the manual presentation in Photoshop using downloadable brushes and a mix of effects.

6) Visual Hierarchy

what is presentation drawings

Black and White Contrast Color

What is your strongest point, the highlight of your project? Grab the attention from far away with that. There are many ways to grab the attention of a specific drawing, using color or size. For example, if the main idea is in your cross-section, you can present it on large scale with full-hue colors, against black and white plan drawings. That is mixing between two of the color presentation techniques mentioned in the previous point to get emphasis by contrast.

General Tips

7) Minimize text on your presentation board. Write a short and concise concept statement and add a very brief explanation, if needed. Don’t waste your time composing elongated descriptive text because no one will read it.

8) Replace words, whenever possible, with simple illustrative sketches and figures. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words. You may use colors and keys to further clarify your illustrations.

what is presentation drawings

9) Use a suitable font for your title and text and, preferably, don’t use more than one font type per project. You can vary between the title, the concept statement, and the labeling by size. Sans Serif fonts like Century Gothic and Helvetica may be good for headlines; their slick minimalism befits modern high-tech designs.

what is presentation drawings

10) Finally, don’t overdo it.

  • Don’t pack your boards with drawings and text at every corner. Leave some breathing space but not too much, that it would look like a) you couldn’t finish your work, b) you didn’t well plan your boards or c) you haven’t worked hard enough.
  • Don’t overuse colors to the extent that they would become a distraction but also don’t make your presentation too light and faded, or it might exhaust the eyes of the viewer and give an impression of weak effort.

what is presentation drawings

Tags: Architecture Drawing Architecture presentation Architecture Project Presentation Presentation Presentation Tutorials Project Presentation Simple Projects Architecture

Lechappee

Lechappee | Atelier WOA

what is presentation drawings

Serra House | Marcelo Couto Arquitetura + Rodrigo Oliveira Paisagismo

Innovation Garden OSAKA Center

Innovation Garden OSAKA Center | Takenaka Corporation

what is presentation drawings

Inspiring Vaulted Ceiling Ideas Elevating Room Designs to New Heights

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CCC Architecture

Programs in architectural studies at the city colleges of chicago, plan graphics for presentation drawings.

Designers prepare different types of drawings for different purposes. Some drawings are construction drawings , and they are prepared for contractors who are responsible for the assembly of the project. Another type of drawing is a presentation drawing . The purpose is to describe the design. Generally, presentation drawings are shown to clients during the design process. While in school, these drawings are presented to instructors and classmates.

A construction drawing will include the information necessary to assemble the project. More detail is needed for this type of drawing. For example, they typically include dimensions. A contractor needs to know the sizes and placement of materials, walls, etc. These drawings also have more detail.

On the other hand, a presentation drawing has information that describes the general arrangement and design intent .

Lineweight is a critical consideration in the graphics for all drawings. The basic principle is that the heavier (thicker) a line is, the more important it is. The graphics for the plan below are unacceptable because everything is represented with lines of the same thickness.

what is presentation drawings

From Ching, F.K., Architectural Graphics , 5th ed, p. 50.

For architectural drawings the most important, and therefore heaviest line is the line of a surface profile. What is a surface profile line? in a plan drawing the surfaces of walls are represented by a

what is presentation drawings

Poché (pronounciation: poh-shey)

Cut elements are sometimes filled with tone or a hatch pattern. This is referred to as poché. It is a French term. Originally, it was used to represent elements made of solid materials, such as a stone column. Now it is used to articulate areas that can not be entered or experienced spatially. For example, it could be a wall that has hollow spaces between wood studs. Using poché helps to define the habitable versus non-habitable spaces. If you choose to poché your walls in plans, you would use the same fill to identify cut walls, floors, and roofs in your section drawings. The fill can be black, a gray tone or a color.

what is presentation drawings

What to show or not to show on a presentation plan?

Yes: doors, windows, walls, furniture, titles, section markers, graphic or text-based scale, north arrow

No: dimensions, construction notes, door and window tags, datums, column bubbles

Dashed LInes

Dashed lines on a floor plan indicate the edges of surfaces above. In the image below the dashed lines may represent a balcony, the extension of and upper floor or a roof plane.

what is presentation drawings

Swinging doors should be illustrated as shown below. Door panels are typically 1-3/8” to 1-3/4” thick. Normally, a door swings into a room, and it swings against a wall if it is located in a corner of the room. There is usually a space between the door and the wall. The minimum dimension for that space is 2”, although it is common to be closer to 4” permitting the installation of a casing or frame. If you are using poché in your walls, you should also fill the door panel with poché.

what is presentation drawings

Use the graphic shown below for pocket doors. The width of the opening, the width of the door panel and the depth of the pocket should all be the same.

what is presentation drawings

The graphics for stairs depend on the level. Below is an example of a straight run stair and a u-shaped (switchback) stair.

what is presentation drawings

For some projects showing furniture eliminates the need to include room names. Furniture also gives a sense of scale. We understand how big a room is without dimensions when the furniture is drawn to the correct scale. Be careful with blocks and building components that you download. Some of them have too much detail and will appear too heavy on the drawing.

what is presentation drawings

Partial House Plan by Alberto Campo Beaza

Annotations

Annotations include notes, reference tags, dimensions, column bubbles, and titles. For presentation plan drawings the necessary annotations are minimal. They include section tags, drawing titles, north arrows and scale notations.

The sizes noted below are recommendations for 1/8” scale plans. If you are printing to a different scale, it is recommended that you adjust the sizes of the graphics. To test the graphics you will need to print the drawings before the final printing.

The graphics below are options for section tags. The arrow and tail directions indicate which way the section is looking. A letter designation can be used to reference the section if there are more than one. The graphics for these annotations should be light. One tag will appear on each side of the plan. Notice how the there is no line connecting the two.

what is presentation drawings

A north arrow is used only on plans. Typically, north is oriented up. The double line indicates the direction of north. If your plan is rotated to some other orientation, the north arrow must be rotated too. Two options are shown below.

what is presentation drawings

The title of the drawing appears at the bottom of the plan. Typically, it is left justified. Occasionally, it is centered. The scale is noted as well, either as text or as a graphic scale.

what is presentation drawings

The plan below integrates the graphic recommendations noted above. A grid plan is used to represent exterior spaces.

what is presentation drawings

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Chapter 41 Presentation Drawings

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Four Choices in Architectural Presentation Drawings

Winning a project bid requires architectural presentation drawings that demonstrate to the potential client the merits of the structure’s design concept and is a direct indication of an architectural firm’s skill in creativity and technical ability. Poorly drafted presentation drawings can result in losing great projects to other firms. We offer four different avenues to presenting your architectural concept which are highly illustrative and demonstrate professionalism to your clients:

2D Elevations and Sections Simple projects such as warehouses and small office complexes may only require 2D elevations of the building facade and cross-sections that illustrate interior area functions. Overall dimensions and floor heights of the building are detailed along with the proper tones and hatching applied to the exterior surfaces to emphasize different materials can supply ample information and clearly illustrate simpler structures. These drawings are best printed in high resolution color on heavy board surfaces to enhance the presentation.

Isometric and Perspectives Drawings A better visual solution for non-technical clients is given with an isometric or perspective view of the structure which emulates a three-dimensional view and shows the relationship between multiple sides of the building. Color and texture rendering of these drawings along with landscaping features will offer clients a greater representation of the proposed structure. The ability to alter view orientation in real-time can help create an exciting presentation as the building is tilted and rotated to different angles.

3D Wire Frame Models As the pre-cursor to rendered models, wire frame 3D models are often employed to allow simultaneous viewing of underlying facets of the structure, such as beams, floors and walls. When the structural solution to a project outweighs the building appearance, wire frame models are the perfect solution. With the application of automatic hidden line removal, the model easily converts to a vector line exterior view of the structure.

3D Rendered Models Fully rendered 3D models of the proposed structure is an optimum solution and well worth the investment for projects that are high-end or have great public interest. Surface textures can nearly replicate real world materials and give your clients a glimpse of what the new building will look like in the real world. The ability to simulate an actual building walk-through is an added benefit to solids models.

Contact us to learn more details on the process and pricing of each of these architectural presentation drawing options.

Related links: Creative 3D Interior Modeling Design, Plan and Construct Using Building Information Modeling Give Clients a Virtual Tour Using Architectural Walkthroughs Curtain Wall Shop Drawings – Add Creativity, Beauty, and Function to Any Building Design Improve Your Presentations with Photorealistic Architectural Rendering BIM Advantages for HVAC Drafting Businesses Advanced Technology for 3D Architectural Design Three Business Development Strategies with Architectural CAD Drafting Services Choosing the Right Architectural Rendering Firm Can Make All the Difference BIM for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services

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Color Blocking – Using colors for dominance

A very elegant example of how colors can be used in architectural presentation styles to make elements stand out. Mostly used to denote massing in a 2d drawing, the color blocking technique is very obvious, but very attractive. Designers can chose colors depending on the number of elements, or based on the heirarchy of masses. So, the colors can be a variation of shades, for eg. one color used in different hues, or the same color tone, for eg. neutral or earthy shades, or bright colors used in the background with the drawing in plain white in the foreground etc. etc. There are n number of permutations and combinations which can be tried in this style and each would give an interesting result. 

2

Axonometric Style – All in one drawing style

One of my favourite techniques for presentation, the axonometric or simply axo style is according to me the easiest to read. Using an axo view, the designer can very well explain the concept and the inter-relationship between various stories, the play of levels or heights, as well as function of every space of the project. An all in one technique, this one diagram is enough to explain the plan, the facade, the inner details, sections and view of a single building. The axo can also be drawn in a variety of ways like sectional axo or floor plan axo etc. to explain further details. This technique is especially useful when the floor plate needs to be explained in minute detail, whereas the facade is a continuous element on all sides. It also conveys the process of design, for instance the steps in the making of the building. What’s more is, this style is the easiest to achieve on software, making it a go-to for students and small firms.

3

Perspective Drawing – 3D visualization

A 3D render is the best way to express what a designer has in his/her mind. The client understands the atmosphere of a space more than a 2D drawing. The sense of scale, colors, textures and feel of a space is best conveyed in this technique. There are a lot of ways to achieve 3D renders, especially with the tools available nowadays. It can be a photo-realistic render or a photoshop collage or a wireframe or white render. However a perspective drawing, where one has the sense of actually being in the space is my top pick. The angle or the camera placed is the most important thing in this style. Where the view gets cut and the kind of textures and colors one uses, with the correct light and shadow setting is also very essential. 

11

Info-graphic – Minimalist drawing style

The single line drawing presentation styles is used extensively these days, where the presentation appears to be more an info-graphic than an architectural drawing. This style is used mostly when the 3D view expresses the major portion of the design and the elevation and section drawings are merely present for further understanding. Often, drawings are not even part of the scheme, only a few details or plans are expressed, in single line for conveying the volumes. This style is perfect for architectural portfolios, where one project is to be displayed on one sheet, where there isn’t much scope for a lot of drawings.

16

Geometric Style – Clean lines and shapes

Sometimes, the drawing or the main focus of the project is lost in context with too many shapes on the sheet. The geometric style expresses everything in sharp straight lines. The absense of organic drawings in the form of trees, cars, etc. or expressing them in lines makes it more interesting to look at and doesn’t distract from the main project. This style is very eye-catching and extremely easy to achieve. Another way to add to this style, is by playing with the opacity of elements. For example, elements which have a more complex shape, like humans or trees, can have a very low opacity as opposed to the main components of the sheet like the facade etc. In this way, the project is highlighted and other elements, while present, do not overpower the sheet. 

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Frantically Speaking

10 Benefits Of Live Drawing For Presentations- No Artistic Skills Required

Hrideep barot.

  • Presentation

Drawing For Presentation

Drawing for presentations is more than just doodles on a page—it’s the art of transforming ideas into visuals that captivate and communicate. As Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist; the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.” So, let’s unleash our inner Picasso and master the art of presentation drawing!

What Is Live Drawing for Presentations?

Live drawing in presentations, also known as real-time or interactive drawing, is a dynamic and engaging technique where an artist or presenter creates visuals on a digital or physical canvas during a live event. 

This approach adds an element of excitement and interactivity to presentations, making them more memorable and impactful. It can involve sketching, diagramming, or illustrating ideas on the spot, helping to clarify complex concepts and capture the audience’s attention in real-time.

 Live drawing can be a powerful tool for educators, speakers, and businesses looking to enhance their communication and storytelling abilities.

What Is The Art Of Presentation Skills? 

The art of presentation skills is a multifaceted craft that involves the ability to communicate, captivate, and persuade an audience effectively. It’s not just about conveying information; it’s about creating an experience that leaves a lasting impact. Effective presenters master the art of connecting with their audience, conveying their message clearly, and engaging their listeners on both intellectual and emotional levels.

Presentations, whether they’re in a business, educational, or public speaking context, require a delicate balance of several key elements. These elements include content organization, body language, vocal tone, and the use of visual aids. Presentation skills encompass the art of storytelling, the power of persuasion, and the ability to adapt to the needs and preferences of your audience.

Now, let’s introduce Drawing as one of the essential skills within the Art of Presentation:

Drawing, as an integral part of presentation skills , brings a unique dimension to the craft. It allows presenters to visually illustrate their ideas, clarify complex concepts, and create a stronger connection with the audience. Whether it’s through live drawing during the presentation or integrating pre-made visuals, drawing adds a creative and engaging element that can leave a lasting impression.

Drawing can be used to create diagrams, charts, and illustrations that simplify complex data, making it more accessible and relatable to the audience. Visual metaphors, sketches, and illustrations can be powerful tools to reinforce your message, evoke emotions, and enhance the overall storytelling experience.

Moreover, drawing doesn’t require advanced artistic skills. Even simple sketches can effectively convey ideas and make your presentation more engaging. Whether you’re presenting in a boardroom, classroom, or on a stage, the ability to incorporate drawing into your presentation skills toolkit can set you apart as a more dynamic and compelling communicator.

In the art of presentation skills, drawing is a creative tool that transforms presentations into Visual stories , making them more memorable and impactful. It’s a skill that, when mastered, can take your presentations to a whole new level, making your messages not only heard but also seen and felt by your audience.

10 Benefits Of Live Drawing For Presentations

Live drawing in presentations is not just about putting pen to paper; it’s a dynamic and captivating technique that can transform your communication. Let us explore ten compelling benefits of incorporating live drawing into your presentations: 

1. Drawing Improves Memory and Recall

 Drawing engages both the visual and motor cortex of the brain, which enhances memory retention. When you draw during a presentation, you create a visual memory for yourself and your audience, making the information more memorable.

 A study published in the “Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology” found that drawing information led to significantly better recall compared to writing or visualizing alone.

2. Greater Understanding and Clarity:

 Live drawing helps in breaking down complex concepts into simple, visually digestible elements. Visual representations can make abstract or intricate ideas more accessible, reducing cognitive load for the audience and increasing comprehension and clarity. This simplification aids in greater understanding and clarity, making it easier for the audience to grasp the content.

  “When information is presented pictorially, it is often easier to understand and recall than when it is presented verbally.” – Barbara Tversky, Professor of Psychology at Stanford University.

3. Picturization of Content:

By translating information into visual form, live drawing allows you to represent data and ideas as images, making them more relatable. It allows you to transform abstract ideas and data into tangible images. This approach aligns with the brain’s preference for processing information visually, with up to 90% of the information transmitted to the brain being visual. This makes the content more relatable and accessible for the audience, as they can connect with the visuals on a deeper level.

The brain processes visual information 60,000 times faster than text, and 90 percent of information transmitted to the brain is visual.

4. Enhanced Engagement and Interactivity:

Live drawing is inherently engaging as the audience witnesses the creation of visuals in real-time. It adds an element of interactivity, as viewers can ask questions or provide input, fostering a more dynamic and participative environment.

 A study in “The Journal of Educational Psychology” showed that interactive learning methods, like live drawing, can lead to significantly improved learning outcomes and engagement.

5. Storytelling Amplification:

Visuals created through live drawing enhance storytelling by adding depth and emotional resonance to the narrative. Visual metaphors and illustrations can convey complex emotions and ideas more effectively. This is supported by research indicating that stories are far more memorable than facts alone, and visuals enhance the emotional impact of a narrative.

 “Stories are remembered up to 22 times more than facts alone.” – Jennifer Aaker, Professor of Marketing at Stanford Graduate School of Business.

6. Customization for Specific Audiences:

Live drawing enables presenters to adapt their visuals in real-time, catering to the specific needs and preferences of the audience. This customization fosters a more personalized and impactful presentation.

“Audience engagement increases by 18% when content is personalized.” – Demand Metric Research Corporation.

7. Improved Information Processing:

The combination of spoken words and live visuals creates dual coding, reinforcing the message in the audience’s memory. This leads to higher information processing rates.

The Cognitive Load Theory suggests that the use of visual aids, such as live drawing, can significantly reduce cognitive load, making it easier for the brain to process and retain information.

8. Overcoming Language Barriers:

Live drawing transcends language barriers, making it an effective tool for international or diverse audiences. Visuals can convey universal concepts, ensuring a broader reach and understanding.

“Visual language is a global medium for communication.” – Keith Williams, Professor of Visual Communication at Yale University.

9. Demonstration of Creative Thinking:

Live drawing showcases creativity and problem-solving skills, which can enhance the presenter’s credibility and engage the audience on a deeper level.

Studies have shown that creative demonstrations can lead to increased trust and positive perception of the presenter.

10. Enhanced Emotional Connection:

Visuals created through live drawing have the power to evoke emotions and create a stronger connection between the audience and the content, leaving a lasting impact.

“The more emotional the content, the more likely it is to be shared and remembered.” – Jonah Berger, Professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Incorporating live drawing into presentations can yield numerous cognitive, emotional, and practical benefits, enhancing the overall impact and effectiveness of your communication.

How Drawing Helps You To Think Better?

Drawing is a powerful tool that can enhance your thinking processes, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and communication. This TEDxTalk offers valuable insights into how drawing can contribute to improved thinking. Let’s explore each of the five points that are mentioned:

1. Intuition

 Drawing can help tap into your intuition by allowing you to express ideas, feelings, and concepts that might be difficult to articulate with words alone. Through the act of drawing, you can access your inner thoughts and emotions, enabling a more intuitive understanding of complex issues.

In the video, the speaker discusses how drawing can help individuals connect with their inner selves and harness their intuition as a valuable source of insight.

Drawing, whether it’s creating art or diagrams, can elevate the aesthetics of your thoughts and ideas. Visualizing concepts in a visually appealing way can make them more attractive and engaging, enhancing the overall quality of your thinking.

The video emphasizes the importance of incorporating aesthetics into your work and how visual beauty can be a driving force in creative thinking.

3. Reflection:

Drawing provides an opportunity for reflection. When you put your thoughts on paper or canvas, it becomes easier to evaluate, analyze, and refine your ideas. You can step back and critically assess your work, facilitating deeper thinking and self-reflection.

The video highlights the role of drawing as a tool for self-reflection, helping individuals gain clarity and insight into their thoughts and emotions.

4. Imagination:

Drawing is a medium that encourages imagination and creativity. It allows you to explore possibilities, experiment with ideas, and push the boundaries of your thinking. By sketching and visualizing your imagination, you can discover new perspectives and solutions.

The video underscores the role of drawing in unlocking one’s imagination, enabling a free flow of creative ideas and solutions to problems.

5. Communication:

Drawing is a universal language that transcends barriers. It enables effective communication by simplifying complex concepts and making them accessible to a wide audience. Whether you’re explaining a complex scientific theory or a new product design, visuals created through drawing can convey your message with clarity.

The video emphasizes the role of drawing as a means of communication, highlighting its power in connecting with and compellingly engaging others.

In summary, drawing can be a transformative tool for thinking. It engages intuition, enhances beauty, promotes reflection, fuels imagination, and facilitates effective communication. The video offers further insights and inspiration on how drawing can be harnessed to improve your thinking processes.

What Are The Requirements Of Presentation Drawing?

Creating effective presentation drawings requires a combination of skills, tools, and considerations to ensure that your visuals are engaging and communicate your message effectively. Here are the 7 key requirements for presentation drawing:

1. Clear Message and Objective:

The foundation of a successful presentation drawing is a well-defined message and objective. Your drawing should align with the core message you want to convey. Before you begin drawing, clarify what you want your audience to take away from your visual.

2. Understanding Your Audience:

Understanding your audience is crucial to creating effective presentation drawings. Consider their knowledge level, interests, and preferences. Tailor your visuals to resonate with your specific audience, making the content more relatable and engaging for them.

3. Storyboard or Plan:

Planning your drawing in advance is essential. Create a rough outline or storyboard to map out the structure and sequence of your drawing. This helps ensure a logical flow and consistency in your visuals, allowing for a smooth and coherent narrative.

4. Basic Drawing Skills:

While you don’t need to be an expert artist, having basic drawing skills is important. This includes the ability to create simple shapes, lines, and symbols that effectively convey your ideas. Practice and hone your skills to become more confident in your drawing abilities.

5. Visual Hierarchy and Consistency:

Establish a visual hierarchy to emphasize key points in your drawing. This can be achieved through the size, color, or positioning of elements. Consistency in style and formatting across all your drawings within a presentation is crucial for creating a cohesive look and maintaining audience engagement.

6. Simplicity and Relevance:

Keep your drawings simple and relevant. Avoid clutter and unnecessary details that could distract from your message. Each element in your drawing should directly relate to the content you’re presenting. Simplicity enhances clarity and helps the audience focus on what’s important.

7. Choice of Medium:

Your choice of drawing medium, whether traditional or digital, depends on your comfort and available resources. Traditional tools, like markers and paper, offer a tactile experience, while digital tools provide flexibility and ease of editing. Choose the medium that suits your style and resources. 

A. Drawing In PowerPoint Presentation

PowerPoint allows for in-slide drawing, which is particularly useful for digital presentations. It offers basic drawing tools, shapes, and the ability to annotate slides directly. It’s an excellent option for enhancing visuals during virtual or in-person presentations.

Drawing in PowerPoint is effective for real-time, digital presentations. You can highlight key points, underline text, add arrows, or create simple illustrations on your slides. It’s a versatile tool that integrates seamlessly with your presentation, making it interactive and engaging.

Basic Guide:

     – Open your PowerPoint presentation.

     – Select the slide where you want to add a drawing.

     – Go to the “Insert” tab and choose “Shapes” or “Scribble” from the “Illustrations” group.

     – Use the drawing tools to create your visual elements.

     – Customize colors, line thickness, and style.

     – Annotate your slides as needed.

B. Drawing In Canva

Canva is a graphic design tool known for its user-friendly interface and extensive library of templates and elements. It offers a wide range of drawing and illustration options, making it ideal for creating visually stunning graphics, infographics, and presentations.

Canva’s design features are highly effective for creating professional and aesthetically pleasing visuals. You can choose from a wide variety of templates, graphics, and drawing tools to make your presentations visually compelling. Canva’s collaborative features also make it a great choice for team projects.

   Basic Guide:

     – Sign in to your Canva account or create one.

     – Start a new presentation project or select an existing one.

     – Use the “Elements” tab to access various drawing tools and shapes.

     – Drag and drop elements onto your canvas.

     – Customize colors, size, and position.

     – Save your work and download it for use in your presentation.

C. Live Drawing On Board

Live drawing on a board, whether physical or digital, provides a dynamic and engaging experience during presentations. It allows presenters to illustrate concepts in real time, fostering a direct connection with the audience.

 Live drawing on a board is highly effective for face-to-face presentations or virtual events with a shared whiteboard. It enables real-time interaction, allowing presenters to respond to audience questions and ideas immediately. This technique adds a personal touch and can make complex concepts more accessible.

D. White Chart Paper

Using white chart paper is a traditional, low-tech method for drawing and presenting. It’s often used in classrooms and brainstorming sessions. It’s unique for its simplicity and accessibility.

 White chart paper is effective for interactive group discussions and brainstorming sessions. It allows participants to collaborate and visualize their ideas collectively. It’s particularly useful in settings where technology is limited or when a tactile, hands-on approach is desired.

In summary, the choice of drawing tools and methods depends on the context and your specific presentation needs. PowerPoint and Canva offer digital options with various features and templates, while live drawing on a board and using white chart paper provide a more hands-on, interactive approach. Choose the method that best suits your presentation style and objectives.

Do I Need To Be Good At Drawing To Add It To My Presentations?

No, you don’t need to be exceptionally skilled at drawing to incorporate it into your presentations effectively. While having advanced drawing skills can be an asset, there are various ways to add drawing elements to your presentations, even if you consider yourself a novice artist. 

Drawing for Storytelling

Let me give you an example, I very well remember some memories of my dad drawing funny figures on paper as he narrated captivating tales. It was all about the sheer joy of the moment, not the perfection of the artwork. I mean, the dog hardly ever resembled a real dog, and the human figure was nothing more than a basic stick figure, but those drawings added a touch of whimsy that made the stories unforgettable and incredibly engaging.

Drawing in presentations can be a lot like that. You don’t need to be a professional artist. Here’s why:

1. Expression over Perfection:

Presentations are about conveying ideas and engaging your audience, not showcasing your artistic skills. Simple drawings or sketches can effectively express your message, and sometimes, the authenticity of a less-than-perfect drawing can be endearing and relatable.

2. Digital Tools:

With modern presentation software and graphic design tools, you can leverage pre-made shapes, icons, and templates. These tools make it easy to create professional-looking visuals without needing advanced drawing skills.

3. Concept Clarity:

The primary goal of adding drawings to your presentation is to enhance conceptual clarity. Even basic illustrations can serve this purpose by simplifying complex ideas, making them more understandable to your audience.

4. Audience Engagement: 

Drawing can enhance audience engagement. It adds a personal touch to your presentation and can spark curiosity. When your audience sees that you’ve put effort into creating visuals, it can leave a positive impression.

5. Practice and Improvement: 

If you’re interested in enhancing your drawing skills, presentations are a perfect platform to practice. As you use drawing more frequently, you’ll likely see improvement over time.

6. Uniqueness: 

Hand-drawn visuals can set your presentations apart. They give your content a distinct, human touch that can make it more memorable and relatable.

In a nutshell, the key is not your artistic prowess but the effectiveness of your visuals in conveying your message. Simple drawings and graphics can work wonders in making your presentations engaging and memorable. So, go ahead and have some fun with your drawings in your presentations. Who knows, just like those funny stories stuck in my head that my dad used to tell, your presentation drawings might become unforgettable for your audience!

In conclusion, drawing for presentations is a versatile and powerful tool that doesn’t require advanced artistic skills. Whether you’re using basic shapes, templates, or digital tools, the goal is to enhance the clarity and impact of your message. The authenticity and simplicity of drawings often resonate with audiences, making your content more engaging and memorable. 

With a bit of practice and the right tools, you can unleash the creative potential of drawing and take your presentations to a whole new level. So, don’t hesitate to add a personal touch to your presentations through the art of drawing!

To Know more about Presentation Skills and Communication you can reach out to us here.

Hrideep Barot

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what is presentation drawings

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Related overviews.

Michelangelo (1475—1564)

Lorenzo Monaco (c. 1370—1425)

Leonardo da Vinci (1452—1519)

Giorgio Vasari (1511—1574) Italian painter, architect, and biographer

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presentation drawing

Quick reference.

A term coined in the 20th century by the Hungarian art historian Johannes Wilde to describe certain drawings made by Michelangelo, for example those he gave as presents to various aristocratic young men. Presentation drawings were finished, non-utilitarian works of art, as opposed to preparatory drawings for a work in another medium. The earliest known presentation drawings dating from the Italian Renaissance are two drawings of the 1420s by Lorenzo Monaco.

From:   presentation drawing   in  The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Art Terms »

Subjects: Art & Architecture

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How-To Geek

How to draw on google slides.

Create your own doodle or design for your presentation.

Quick Links

Draw in google slides using scribble, draw on google slides using google drawings.

Not everything you want to show in your presentation is as easy as adding an image. Maybe you need to draw a picture of your own. You have two ways to draw on Google Slides and we'll show you both.

Whether it's something basic like a stick figure or smiley face or something more complex like an idea for a new product or logo design, Google Slides offers up ways to make it happen.

For a quick way to sketch your picture, you can draw directly on your slide. Then, use the available tools to format your drawing the way you want.

Related: How to Edit Images in Google Slides

Open your presentation and select the slide you want to use. Go to Insert in the menu, move your cursor to Line, and choose "Scribble" in the pop-out menu. You can also use the line, arrow, and other tools if you like.

You'll see your cursor transform into a crosshair symbol. Use that to draw on the slide.

Format Your Scribble Drawing

After you draw your picture, you can use the toolbar to change the line weight, color, or dash. Select the drawing so that you see the object border. Then, choose an option in the toolbar.

To change the size or position, or add a shadow or reflection, select the image and click "Format Options" in the toolbar.

When the sidebar opens, expand the option you want to change. For instance, you can check the box for Reflection and then expand the section to adjust the transparency , distance, and size.

Close the sidebar by clicking the X on the top right.

Another option is to use Google Drawings to create your picture and then insert it onto your slide . This is a good way to go if you want to create a detailed drawing.

Related: How to Insert Photos and GIFs into Google Slides

As of this writing, Google Slides doesn't offer the option to simply insert a drawing. So, it takes a few extra steps, and you have a couple of ways to do it.

To create your picture, you can go directly to the Google Drawings website . Alternatively, click File > New > Drawing from the Google Slides menu to open Drawings in a new browser tab.

Draw your picture, use the toolbar to format it as you like, and be sure to give it a name on the top left.

You can then use one of two ways to insert the drawing in Google Slides.

Related: How to Embed a Google Drawing Into Google Docs

Option 1: Publish and Link to the Drawing

With the first method, you publish the drawing, copy the link, and use the URL to insert the picture on your slide. Publishing the drawing makes it publicly available to anyone with the link. One benefit is that if you make changes to the drawing and re-publish it, the drawing automatically updates wherever it's linked.

On Google Drawings, click File > Publish to the Web from the menu.

Select the Link tab and optionally pick a size. Click "Publish" and then "OK."

When the link displays, copy it using Ctrl+C on Windows or Command+C on Mac.

Return to Google slides and click Insert > Image > By URL from the menu.

Paste the link into the field using Ctrl+V on Windows or Command+V on Mac. Then, click "Insert."

Option 2: Download the Drawing and Upload It to Google Slides

Another way to insert your Google Drawing in Google Slides is to download the image and then upload it to your slide.

On Google Drawings, click File > Download and choose an image format such as PNG.

Return to Google Slides and click Insert > Image > Upload From Computer.

Locate the image and click "Upload."

Related: Where Are My Downloads on Windows?

Format the Inserted Drawing

Once you insert your drawing using one of the above two methods, you can adjust the position  or size, or add a shadow or reflection as described earlier. Select it and click "Format Options" in the toolbar.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. So if the one you want to use is something you need to create yourself, you can easily draw on Google Slides.

For more on pictures in Google Slides, take a look at how to add image placeholders to your slides or how to save objects as images .

Atelier de Hahn

The architecture of a global traveler, final architecture presentation drawings.

what is presentation drawings

Final architecture presentation drawings. In past blogs, I have emphasized the importance of  sketching  as integrative design  process . While these learned skills never fail to assist a student’s ability to investigative their project, this blog emphasizes the other end of the spectrum; namely the need to create a successful final presentation.

Some time ago, I visited the final presentation of a colleague’s studio and to my disappointment, most students’ drawings showed no hierarchy of design process; were collaged over each other in a haphazard manner; lacked precision and refinement in various rendering techniques; and, to my dismay, conveyed an absence of pride in their final work. (Yes, I believe that final semester presentations should carry a sense of gravitas.)

I recognize that I am more formal in my approach to final presentations, or let me be honest, in my approach to education in general. But in today’s world where most visuals and graphics are so curated and are designed to an extreme in terms of layout, composition, image selection, and typographic choices to name but a few, I have difficulty understanding why there is such a laissez-faire attitude when it comes to requesting students produce a set of deliverables for a final review, especially a review that concludes a year of learning! 

This is not simply about making a beautiful presentation, but is part of creating an identity—the student’s distinctiveness in how they responded to the project brief—and to a large degree, how they establish key relationships with the audience who view, discuss, and appreciate the visual and verbal efforts. I will admit that this lack of final presentation among many studios is not so much the students’ decision—especially in second year—but poor judgment by faculty in preparing our students to present their work.

Since early in my teaching career, I have had students present their projects holistically—meaning that contrary to pinning up drawings haphazardly, and thus failing to showcase multiple aspects of their design thinking, I request that they consider how to represent their final product, their process, and, most importantly, how they developed the project over the assigned time.

The following blog addresses my interest in having students craft final presentations and includes select drawings that were presented during the final reviews.

Stage 1: understanding the deliverables

To engage students in this endeavor, two weeks prior to their final presentation, I share a list of required deliverables that hopefully by then come as no surprise due to the familiarity of basic presentation requirements. These parameters are formed by analog and digital drawings as well as models that give insight into the projects; they are often accompanied by additional precedence materials that support ideas and process, and bring a personal touch to the presentation. These deliverables encompass plans, sections, elevations, sketches, process drawings, precedence, axonometrics, and perspectives, walk throughs, collages and montages, narrative texts, etc.

The initial conversations cover how to create a successful architectural presentation. As a class, we discuss possible layouts, visual hierarchy, formal structure of composition (proportion, balance, symmetry, rhythm, sequence, scale, movement, cropping, and repetition), and color versus black and white; all components defining how each student wishes to have their project read. At this time, I often share past presentation boards to inspire them, as I have seen that students need some visual clues to understand the task, yet they always draw on their own creative and experimental desires, enabling them to produce their own marvels. They are encouraged to underpin their creatively with an underlying structure or grid in order to give the necessary coherence and “visually persuasive” content needed for any successful final presentation.

I also recommend to students that their overall presentation showcase the excellence of their work in addition to conveying the process through which they arrived at their final design. In fact, we often discuss how final presentations are a mini thesis in their own right; one that communicates with elegance a narrative (story telling) and reflects a holistic design process. Of course, it is equally important that the layout be accompanied by a verbal presentation that omits the typical evasive words including kind of, perhaps, maybe, you know . . .

In addition to having students work with visual languages and aesthetic strategies, I give them constraints in order to compare and contrast between presentations—and this regardless of the program brief. I typically require a layout on three to five landscape-oriented side-by-side 24 x 36-inch panels; with the caveat that the overall presentation needs unity across all boards, while being easily read thematically as individual panels.

Stage 2: composition layout of the panels

what is presentation drawings

At this point, and with some basic instruction, students begin composing a graphic language through ideas in sketch form (Image 2, above). Some use place holders to locate specific drawings, while others write down the name of each drawing to be included. Either way, what is important at this early stage is to develop an idea about the sequential movement and dynamic rhythm of the overall composition, accompanied by a narrative that will assist them, and the reviewer, to understand the nature of their innovative design proposal. 

What I mean by this, is that to simply draw a rectangle or bubble indicating the position of a drawing does not allow students to understand that each drawing has a basic scale, size, and orientation. For example, the inclusion of a plan appears typically flat in any presentation, while an axonometric is more dynamic due to the angles (e.g., 30/60 degrees), and thus will begin to “point” in various directions, begging to be tied to a previous or subsequent drawing, which in turn will give sense to the overall layout. 

Students rapidly learn that creating a dynamic composition is essential, thus they begin to play with cropping and overlapping drawings—often at different scales—that give depth to the presentation, while allowing specific drawings to “pop out” and draw the attention of the reviewers.

Version 1: first formal layout 

what is presentation drawings

At this stage, it is critical that students rapidly move from conceptual thinking to actual presentation drawings at scale 1:1. To do this they must replace their conceptual note/drawing with the actual drawing. The reason is simple. If they don’t, it often leads to misinterpretation of the actual scale of each drawing, thus creating a presentation that is unreadable and does not make sense compositionally. Some students express a lack of interest in this step, and it is unfortunate, as they are avoiding replacing their placeholders (i.e., bubble diagrams) with actual scaled drawings which give a whole new perspective to the scale of the layout. Students who rely on an imaginary composition are often disappointed in the overall composition.

Prior to moving to a 1:1 scale, I encourage students to print out their presentation panels on 11 x 17 inch sheets of paper (Image 3, above). This allows them to assess if what they see on their computer screen makes sense when printed (Image 3 below). For students, it is always a revelation to see how drawings are perceived on screen versus when printed at a small scale, and this is even more true when see they them full scale, as jurors will during the final review. Self-critique and feedback are typically done on these xerox copies.

what is presentation drawings

In the above two images (4 and 5 above), changes are done to improve the readability of the large axonometric (middle left); perspectival sections are modified to basic sections (right of the axonometric); and both top and bottom right corners are adjusted for clarity and order. In this example, a  parti  based on organizing select areas of the loft (e.g., bookshelves) is highlighted, while bringing into focus past  charettes  conducted during the project.

Note that a site plan is  finally  introduced (Image 5 above, middle right showing part of the island of Manhattan), which will become the subject of subsequent iterations until it acts as a background for all plans and sections (Images 6, 7, and 8 below) followed by the introduction of an axonometric of the skyscraper (Image 9 below).

Version 2: the 1:1 printing

what is presentation drawings

At this juncture, a class review of the presentation panels is conducted at scale 1:1. As peers, a critique is conducted to assess the content of each composition and the students are invited to scribble their thoughts on the presentation panels, thus suggesting to their colleagues either the need for major changes or slight adjustments. Often critiques point toward the lack of overall readability of the compositions, probing the drawings in term of their position, proximity, scale, and color, in addition to the length, size and character/font of text with its obvious and unfortunate misspellings, etc.

Version 3: final adjustments

what is presentation drawings

At this stage, each student finetunes their presentation, making digital refinement after refinement. Images find a common scale, and ordering systems bring coherence to the layout, often interjected with process sketches and all necessary nomenclatures as sectional cuts, titles, north arrow AND graphic scale.

Note how in this example (Image 7 above), the site plan has migrated to become the background of the plan and sections while suggesting it is part of the perspective on the right. A very nice move that adds a dynamic to the right side of the presentation. Small refinements are calibrated, including the extension of the light in the middle right image into the drawing above (Image 8 below).

Version 4 (final presentation)

what is presentation drawings

Conclusion:

The day of the public review, it is always impressive to see for the first time the collective display of all the students’ work. Pride, hard work, and confidence infuses the space, and it is encouraging, and most rewarding to see the personality of each student represented in their final compositions. Not only are their design strategies different from each other, but each presentation carries a personal interpretation of the identical required deliverables. Perhaps the most important aspect in developing a final presentation, is to consider the task as a design project in its own right; one that starts with a brief (required deliverables), then the first conceptual sketches, next, the testing of the layout at a small scale, and then, at full scale, the day’s final presentation.

Post scriptum

Following is the close up of four panels (from left to right) of the above final presentation. Per the initial directive, each layout was created separately but conceived, foremost, as a single presentation.

what is presentation drawings

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Architectural Visualizations | Tallbox

Interior Design Presentation Tools

  • Post category: CGI Interior Design / Interior Design Business

Table of Contents

What is Interior design presentation?

Interior design presentations are visual overviews of a planned design concept that interior designers use to communicate their ideas to clients.

These presentations as part of the design project proposal showcase the designer’s proposed plans for the layout, furnishings, materials, color scheme, and other details for a residential or commercial interior space.

Examples of elements that may be included in an interior design presentation are:

  • Floor plans – 2D drawings showing the layout and dimensions of the space
  • Furniture arrangements – Digital renderings or models showing furniture placement
  • Fabric and finish samples – Physical swatches of proposed fabrics, carpets, tiles, woods, etc.
  • Color scheme – A palette of proposed paint colors and accents
  • Lighting plan – Technical drawings indicating lighting layout and fixture selections
  • Material specifications – A detailed list of all proposed materials and finishes
  • Concept boards – Mood boards with inspirational images, materials, and colors
  • 3D renderings – Digitally generated imagery showing the designed space in perspective
  • Lifestyle vignettes – Styled set-ups showing proposed furniture arrangements
  • Project description – An overview of the design concept and goals

Presenting these elements visually allows clients to better understand and provide feedback on the interior designer’s proposed design before implementation. The presentation brings the concepts to life.

Picture of George Nicola

George is a seasoned interior designer and property marketing strategist with over 13 years of experience. He specializes in transforming properties into visually stunning spaces, helping clients recognize the potential and beauty in each property. With an impressive international client base of exciting projects throughout Europe and America.

The presentation boards allow the designer to display these details in a graphic, visually-oriented format. They bring together all elements of the design into a cohesive presentation.

An interior design project may be the second biggest commitment for a property after the purchase of the property from a client’s perspective!

overview of the presentation process

Interior designer presenting a project to a client at a desk in front of a window.

The process follows roughly the same path, but the resources and division of labor vary by studio size. Communication and collaboration are key throughout. 

Presenting the design is ultimately a team effort.

Solo Designer

  • Research – Gather inspiration, analyze client needs
  • Concept – Develop overall design direction and color schemes
  • Schematic Layouts – Rough space plans
  • Design Refinement – Materials, finishes, details
  • Production – Create presentation boards, models, renderings
  • Presentation – Present to client, get feedback
  • Revisions – Refine based on feedback

Small Studio (2-10 designers)

  • Research – Conducted collaboratively
  • Concept – Team brainstorming session
  • Schematic Layouts – Work divided amongst team
  • Design Refinement – Collaboration on details
  • Production – Divide tasks like boards, renderings
  • Presentation – Often presented together
  • Revisions – Team approach to refinements

Large Studio (10+ designers)

  • Research – Conducted by project designers
  • Concept – Presented for group critique
  • Schematic Layouts – Work divided by project phase
  • Design Refinement – Specialists for materials, etc.
  • Production – Often outsourced renderings, models
  • Presentation – Led by project designers
  • Revisions – Implemented by project team

What are the 3 phases of interior design presentation?

Interior design presentation consists of 3 main phases with up to 13 different elements incorporated under them. Each element builds on the others to create a comprehensive, visual presentation that is part of project proposals.

Interior designers combines the three phases in a strategic way to communicate the design narrative and details. 

Typically, an interior design presentation incorporates 4-13 different elements that work together to convey the design concept.

The design process that leads to the presentation can be broken down into several key phases:

Programming Phase: The initial stage where the client’s needs and goals are identified. This informs the overall direction.

Schematic Design Phase: Rough layouts and space planning are developed that align with the programming needs.

Design Development Phase: More detailed design work is done to refine the schematic design, including material selections, lighting plans, etc.

The presentation then pulls visuals, drawings, and samples from these phases to depict the design. 

Common elements include:

  • Bubble diagrams and hand sketches showing initial concepts
  • CAD and hand-drawn floor plans showing layout
  • Axonometric drawings demonstrating spatial relationships
  • Interior elevations and section drawings showing finishes and architectural details
  • Physical and digital materials boards with finish samples
  • Digital and physical presentation boards with concept collages, sketches, etc.
  • 3D interior modeling studies and renderings bringing the design to life visually where color schemes, references and real life measurements are combined into 3D concept.

Visually Communicating Value with new clients

Interior design presentation

The goal is to establish trust and rapport through professional, polished presentations focused on collaboration and exemplary service. 

Design is problem solving; presentations reflect that philosophy .

Here are some key elements of an interior design business philosophy as it relates to client presentations:

  • Communicate don’t dictate – Presentations should facilitate an open dialogue, not just convey demands.
  • Educate the client – Take time to explain the rationale behind recommendations.
  • Collaborate, don’t confront – Welcome ideas and aim for compromise, not conflict.
  • Guide, don’t direct – Gently steer clients towards quality, even if more costly.
  • Anticipate needs – Strive to present what clients want before they ask.
  • Sell the process – Demonstrate how careful methodology leads to better outcomes.
  • Reinforce expertise – Leverage presentations to highlight specialized skills and value.
  • Be transparent – Clearly convey all costs, lead times, and constraints. No surprises.
  • Make it visual – Show don’t tell; visuals bring concepts to life.
  • Think long-term – Build lasting relationships not just transactions.
  • Present comprehensively – Demonstrate attention to all details big and small.
  • Pursue perfection – Constantly aim to improve presentation skills and tools.

What is Programming Phase?

The programming phase is the first stage of an interior design project. It involves gathering information about the client’s needs and goals for the space.

Key activities in the programming phase include:

  • Initial client meeting and site visit – To understand project scope, requirements, and constraints.
  • Interviewing stakeholders – Speaking with all end users to identify needs.
  • Conducting research – Investigating relevant laws, building codes, regulations.
  • Performing analysis – Analyzing site, architecture, existing conditions.
  • Defining project goals – Identifying the client’s vision and objectives.
  • Determining space requirements – Including sizes, adjacencies, capacities.
  • Developing program documentation – Compiling research into a written program.
  • Presenting findings – Reporting key details back to client.

The programming phase essentially establishes the “rules of engagement” that guide the design moving forward. The interior designer works collaboratively with the client to define all functional, legal, budgetary and aesthetic goals for the project.

Having a well-defined program provides an effective roadmap as the designer transitions into conceptual development and space planning. It also allows the client to review and approve project expectations before design work proceeds.

The programming phase is a crucial foundation for success.

What is schematic design presentation

A schematic design presentation communicates the initial spatial planning and layout of an interior design project. At this early stage, the presentation typically includes.

  • Bubble diagrams – Initial space planning sketches
  • Hand-drawn floor plans – Rough layouts showing adjacencies
  • Digital floor plans – Preliminary plans from CAD software
  • Furniture arrangements – Rough blocking plans for furnishings
  • Spatial blocking plans – Generic shapes showing spatial zones
  • Area calculations – Basic sizes/capacities for spaces
  • Concept sketches – Early hand drawings of ideas
  • Mood boards – Inspirational imagery and samples
  • Design narratives – Written description of concept and goals

The schematic presentation focuses more on spatial relationships and broad concept rather than refinements. It establishes the foundation that the design will later develop from.

This allows the client to review and approve the proposed spatial layout and functionality before the designer progresses into more detailed design development. The presentation ensures the design is aligned with the client’s programming needs and goals early in the process.

The schematic presentation is an important first step in bringing the client into the design process. It initiates a dialogue that continues through the evolution of the design in subsequent presentations.

What is bubble diagram interior design

A Digital Interior design bubble diagram displaying the different types of household spaces.

A bubble diagram is a basic planning tool used in the early stages of the interior design process. It uses simple shapes and symbols to represent spatial elements.

In interior design, bubble diagrams are typically used during the programming and schematic design phases to explore initial layout options and spatial relationships. Common elements included in an interior design bubble diagram are:

  • Circles/bubbles – Indicate rooms and other spaces
  • Arrows – Show connections and relationships between spaces
  • Squares – Represent fixed elements like stairs, columns
  • Text labels – Identify the function of each space
  • Size variations – Show relative sizes/proportions of spaces
  • Colors – Differentiate space types or zones

Bubble diagrams are quick, flexible tools to experiment with different space planning scenarios. They help identify spatial needs, adjacencies, layout possibilities, and circulation patterns in a low-detail format.

Interior designers use bubble diagrams to collaborate with clients, ensuring the layout meets their functional needs and goals early in the design process. The simplicity of the bubble diagram facilitates effective communication and exploration of options.

Bubble diagrams provide an important starting point that leads into more detailed space planning and interior design development. They reveal opportunities and issues before committing to a layout.

What is material board presentation?

A material board is a key component of many interior design presentations. It allows the designer to physically showcase proposed materials, finishes, and samples to the client. 

Examples of items that may be included on a material board are:

An interior design presentation featuring a 3D drawing of a tray showcasing various colors of paint.

  • Fabric swatches – Samples of proposed upholstery, drapery, and other fabrics
  • Carpet and area rug samples – Carpet tiles, bound rugs, swatches, etc.
  • Tile samples – Stone, ceramic, glass, and other tile types
  • Wood samples – Stain swatches, veneer samples, solid wood samples
  • Wall covering samples – Wallpaper, grasscloth, metal sheets, etc.
  • Paint color chips – Chips showing proposed paint colors
  • Hardware samples – Knobs, pulls, hinges, lighting, plumbing fixtures
  • Accessory samples – Such as pillows, throws, vases
  • Natural material samples – Leather, stone, glass, etc.
  • Marble, granite, quartz samples – For kitchen and bath surfaces
  • Appliance samples – Brochures, spec sheets, swatches

The material board allows the client to see and feel the products being proposed for their space. It brings the materials off the page, helping the client better visualize the designer’s plan. The board serves as a tactile complement to the rest of the presentation.

Interior design project timeline

Between 80 and 90% of design projects feature similar phases and timeline. 

  • Programming – Gather project goals, requirements, constraints
  • Schematic Design – Develop initial space plan and layouts
  • Design Development – Refine plans, select finishes, furnishings
  • Design Presentation – Present concept to client for review and approval
  • Construction Documents – Create detailed drawings and specifications
  • Bidding/Estimates – Obtain contractor pricing for construction
  • Construction Administration – Oversee and manage installation process
  • Furnishings Procurement – Purchase and install furnishings and décor
  • Installation Completion – Final walkthrough and handover to client
  • Project Closeout – Final documentation, payments, contractor evaluations

The initial design presentation usually occurs after schematic design and design development, allowing the designer to present a comprehensive concept showing the spatial layout, materials, and vision for the project. This presentation is crucial for aligning with the client before moving into construction documentation and implementation. It is a pivotal milestone in the design process timeline.

The tradition of the design presentation

80% of interior designers are not makers but thinkers with a maker’s way of thinking, and only 25% of all designs have mastered their design presentations.

If a great design idea is not presented in the best light to the client, often this leads to a break-up in the relationship between a designer and client.

The presentation is the crossroad that can earn high profits and fame or break the project and it all starts with the interior design process.

Traditionally, young designers are taught in schools and colleges to create design boards composed of 2D drawings, sketches, fabric swatches, little materials samples, and inspirational references. The interior design process is also briefly taught in the design school but often, implementing it requires much more experience and knowledge.

Although this is an excellent tactile way for clients to “experience” the project, if you ask, most designers will tell you that their clients always have hundreds of questions after such presentations.

One may experience the fabric and compare references, but it will have difficulty linking the 2D diagrams and plans with watercolor sketches. All of this creates more work for the designers to explain every element with cutout images or other ways.

The design process of presentation

The design process is the pillar of each project. If a project does not have a well-organized design process, often called “programming,” or “Pre-design planning” the risk of failure and mistakes is high, which will always lead to breaks in relations with clients, loss of profit for the designs, and increased budgets for the client.

Pre-design planning (also Programming) represents a detailed analysis of the client’s needs, requirements, and budget. Everything is put against any architectural or site constraints.

Newbie designers overlook the importance of having even simple programming in place. This shows the clients each step of the project and establishes the designer’s credibility and communication skills.

Analysis, Synthesis, and Evaluation are the three main stages of an interior project.

Analysis – it includes phases of defining and translating the project’s problem.

Synthesis – all potential problems and requests are formulated with one or multiple solutions (for discussion with a client)

Evaluation – often has a few rounds of critical reviews, comparison of pros and cons of each solution.

The importance of the pre-design planning phase is so high that the process can be compared to a business justification and options appraisals, all leading later to better-optimized budgets for the client and increased profits for the designers.

Picture of George Nicola

George Nicola

Each of the above phases has multiple stages, and they may have different names for each designer, but in general, they lead to the same outcome – solving the problem. Design teams of 5+ teams often have dedicated programmers in charge of the management and communication. Since every project and company are different, programming varies on the type – the size of the project and the amount of useful information presented by the client.

More on this you can read our article “ How to develop an Interior Design team ?”

Below I will try to explain the most common types of interior design presentation tools and grade them with scores for complexity and effectiveness.

Interior bubble diagrams

Complexity: 4 / 10 Effective: 6 / 10

interior-bubble-diagram

Think of bubble diagrams as a way of early schematic brainstorming. These diagrams can quickly generate multiple concepts. Each bubble has a rough scale according to the space’s proportion, representing its location and adjoining spaces.  Based on an approved diagram, the concept is further developed into a floor plan, hand sketch, or 3D drawing. This technique is used by architects, designers, engineers, marketers, developers, and many more professionals where problem-solving is required.

Interior design hand sketches

Complexity: 8 / 10 Effective: 4 / 10

interior hand sketch presentations

Hand sketched presentations are the oldest and most widely used tool for presenting three-dimensional interior schemes.

Considered almost an art, they require a lot of time, skills, and techniques to be brought up to a level that design clients can understand and read. 

Being able to sketch an interior to such a degree shows your clients you know what you are doing and impress them. 

Unfortunately, the downside to this design presentation is that only a tiny percent of clients can understand the details of their future homes in-depth.

Thus interior designers who rely solely on hand sketches need to bring additional tools to support and convey their ideas. Here we’ve explained in-depth the most common types of Interior design hand sketching techniques.

Hand drawn floor plans

Complexity: 7 / 10 Effective: 5 / 10

hand-sketched-floor-plan

Floor plans, also known as (horizontal building sections) are drawings depicting the building or room layout as if looking through the ceiling with a horizontal cut approximately at half the wall height.

Floor plans are drawn to scale, which may vary according to project conditions.

Larger-scale plans are used to show the general layout without specific details, and smaller-scale interior floor plans are used for highly detailed presentations. 

Hand-drawn floor plans are not common today as it takes a long time and effort to produce, which may have to be amended after each client meeting. NDA Uk has produced valuable insight into sketching the initial concept here .

CAD floor plans

Complexity: 7 / 10 Effective: 6 / 10

interior design presentation

CAD floor plans are the modern version of the sketched-by-hand plans, which present a much more refined process, quicker to amend details identified by clients.

In addition, CAD plans benefit from having to vary a variety of graphic annotations for each element and attribute. 

These orthographic drawings are abstractions of the idea with a specific goal – illustrating and delineating items are walls, windows, boundaries between spaces, and other new or old elements of the project. 

The most significant positive side of CAD plans is flexibility.

axonometric-interior-drawings

Interior Axonometric drawings

Complexity: 7 / 10 Effective: 7 / 10

A large percentage of interior clients have difficulty understanding everything if presented independently without supporting materials, which leads to designers producing early in the project additional support drawings as axonometric drawings

Axonometric drawings can be hand sketched or CAD models; either has its own pros and cons

interior-elevation-plan

Interior section drawings

Complexity: 5 / 10 Effective: 6 / 10

Section drawings are vertical planes slicing the volumes of the spaces that form a projected image of the elements of the interiors.

Their main goal is to identify and refine interior details around walls, doors, and window fixtures. It is important to note that there are multiple internal sections and elevations stages as a project progresses.

Interior model study

Complexity: 6.3 / 10 Effective: 8.3 / 10

interior model study

Interior model studies can be done in 3D software or traditional paper and styrofoam miniature. Primarily used by architects to explore the shape and principal components of buildings, interior designers have adopted the tool for the use of internal exploration.  Interior studies are part of the concept design phase when the foundation of the concept is laid.  This tool is also known as 3D floor plans in the real estate sector.

Traditional interior design board

Complexity: 3 / 10 Effective: 6 / 10

interior-design-board

Design boards (often material presentations) are always put together for the client to understand the overall color-material palette of the project. Meetings often are conducted in-house. This part of the project presentation is important as it covers the colors overall and often may have specific references to ready-to-buy furniture or lighting.  Often such design boards are accompanied by floor plans, hand sketches, or sections.

Digital Interior design board

Complexity: 2 / 10 Effective: 5 / 10

digital-interior-mood-board

Digital design boards are a thing today since it’s much easier to compile and send to the client via e-mail for review. This virtual brother of the traditional design board is used mainly during the preliminary discussions and concept direction. Digital design presentations should be part of the process and work along the actual design board at the end.

Interior 3D drawing

Complexity: 6.2 / 10 Effective: 8 / 10

Interior-3D-drawings

SketchUp is easy to use and affordable modeling program used by more than 80 million people worldwide. Being the most straightforward and intuitive for building 3D models of interior spaces and not only.

SketchUp models can be exported into 3rd party rendering software since the software does not have an integrated photorealistic renderer.

Many Interior Designers use hand drawings and SketchUp models to help their clients envision the project. Hand-drawn projects often are used for preliminary client meetings for quick hatches and depiction of ideas, while SketchUp is used to refine everything in a highly-accurate Interior 3D drawing. 

Since SketchUp is only a modeling software, it does not have an integrated rendering module.

Often designers export rough models and overlay them with digital watercolors or another method of digital painting to make them more appealing and artistic.

Interior 3D rendering

Complexity: 9 / 10 Effective: 9 / 10

interior-3d-rendering

Think of Interior 3D renderings as the extension of the Interior 3D drawing tool, the cherry on top of the cake for your interior project.

Interior 3D renderings are the highly refined photoreal product of 3D drawings and models. 3D renderings are images with depicted natural light, colors, shapes, and textures of the interior space in all of its beauty. 

This is the most effective tool in a designer’s toolbox. Most savvy designers use 3D renderings combined with the other mechanisms explained above to have maximum impact on their presentation.

This article has the “ Most common 3D rendering questions a designer asks “

Why interior presentation is important?

Thoughtful presentations throughout the design process lead to better outcomes and often save time, costs, and headaches down the road. A picture is worth a thousand words.

Reasons why interior design presentations are important, especially for firms looking to save time and resources:

  • Aligns vision – Ensures designer and client are on the same page about design goals and concept direction before moving forward.
  • Provides feedback – Allows client to give input on layouts, selections so changes can be made early.
  • Validates concepts – Gives the client opportunities to react to and validate the design concepts.
  • Manages expectations – Clearly conveys what is technically achievable within budget and site constraints.
  • Sells ideas – Enables designer to persuade client towards bolder/progressive design choices.
  • Refines details – Opportunity to tweak finishes, furnishings based on client comments.
  • Establishes scope – Solidifies what is included before construction documents commence.
  • Saves rework – Avoids wasted time from major redesigned if issues are caught earlier.
  • Tracks approvals – Provides documentation of client approvals at key project milestones.
  • Manages budget – Ensures costs are aligned with client goals at various stages.
  • Builds confidence – Reinforces the designer’s expertise and vision.

Starting an Interior Design Presentation

When presenting interior presentation the goal is to make the client feel comfortable, involved, and excited to see the design come to life. A thoughtful introduction and presentation style sets the stage for an engaging, productive meeting.

  • Welcome the client – Greet them, offer water/coffee, make introductions.
  • Give an overview – Explain the presentation purpose, flow, and estimated length.
  • Show appreciation – Thank the client for the opportunity and input so far.
  • Set expectations – Note that it’s a collaborative process open to feedback.
  • Establish the vision – Summarize the design goals and client wishes.
  • Start with inspirations – Use engaging visuals to introduce design concepts.
  • Present confidently – Be knowledgeable yet conversational.
  • Watch body language – Make eye contact, don’t turn your back.
  • Invite participation – Ask for initial reactions, input as you go.
  • Clarify as needed – Answer questions clearly without jargon.
  • Read the room – Assess reactions; adjust pace/approach accordingly.
  • Have a conversation – Make it an open dialogue, not a one-way lecture.
  • Set a positive tone – Balance professionalism with warmth.

how to present an interior design concept

The presentation should provide an engaging, sensory introduction to the design narrative. Ensure the client connects with the concept on an emotional level.

Here are some tips for presenting an interior design concept:

  • Create a mood board – Collage images, materials, colors that represent the design intent. Help tell the visual story.
  • Develop inspirational sketches – Hand drawings to quickly convey spatial ideas and stylistic details.
  • Use concept models – Simple massing models showing forms, spatial connections.
  • Prepare initial floorplans – Hand drawn or digital plans to indicate layout and functionality.
  • Show materials and finishes – Present physical or digital samples of proposed materials.
  • Use inspirational descriptors – Compose a narrative to explain the concept’s origins and goals.
  • Include spatial vignettes – Model or digitally render key spaces to visualize the concept.
  • Develop title and style boards – Display the project name, client, date, and design aesthetics.
  • Present in layers – Break down complex designs into digestible parts and pieces.
  • Tell a story – Take the client on a journey through the eyes of the end user.
  • Seek feedback – Have an open dialogue to understand responses and make refinements.
  • Be passionate – Enthusiasm for the concept is contagious.

who is involved in creating the design presentation

For solo and small teams often the involved in presentation are lead or project designer and graphics team. While in larger firms more peopel are involved in putting up the design presentation.

There are usually several key team members involved in creating an interior design presentation:

  • Lead Designer – The primary interior designer responsible for the project oversees the presentation creation. They ensure it aligns with the design concept and client needs.
  • Project Designers – Any other designers working collaboratively on the project help develop presentation content.
  • Graphics Team – Graphic designers, CAD technicians, render artists create the drawings, boards, models, etc.
  • Support Staff – Administrative staff may assist with scheduling, printing, assembling materials.
  • Construction Team – Contractors and tradespeople may provide estimates, feedback on constructability.
  • Specialty Consultants – Lighting, acoustics, AV consultants help develop technical details.
  • Photographers – For projects involving site photos, lifestyle images.
  • Copywriters – Can assist with composing the narrative content.
  • Principals/Partners – Senior leadership may review the presentation and provide guidance.
  • Client – The client is the most important collaborator, providing feedback throughout the process.

The combination of the design, technical, and creative team allows for all aspects of the presentation to come together in a cohesive, impactful way. It’s a team effort!

Are FF&E part of the presentation?

Yes, furnishings, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) are an important part of most interior design presentations.

Here are some of the key ways FF&E may be incorporated:

  • Furniture Floor Plans – Scale drawings showing proposed furniture layouts and arrangements.
  • Furniture Elevations – Scaled drawings with dimensions and details of specific furniture pieces.
  • Furniture Spec Sheets – Manufacturers’ spec sheets for priced furniture items.
  • Furniture Renderings – Digitally rendered perspective images showing furnishings in context.
  • Furniture Samples – Photos, fabric swatches, paint colors for custom pieces.
  • Furnishings Plan – A detailed list of all specified furniture, fabrics, and finishes.
  • Furniture Inspiration – Mood boards with furniture images representative of the style.
  • Furniture Models – Physical scale models or digital models of key furniture forms.
  • Furniture Vignettes – Styled arrangements of furniture, accessories, and finishes.
  • Pricing Summaries – Spreadsheets listing furniture costs, vendors, and lead times.

Showcasing the proposed FF&E allows clients to better visualize the complete design concept and understand how furnishings complement the architecture and finishes. Specifying detailed FF&E is an integral part of the design process and presentation.

What designers need to show presentation on site?

The goal is to bring anything needed to clearly explain the details and vision of the design in the context of the actual space.

It’s important for designers to have a capable laptop or tablet when presenting on site. This allows them to access and display digital presentation materials, 3D files, and other electronic design documents.

A powerful, portable device also enables designers to make edits or adjustments to the presentation on the fly in response to client feedback during the meeting.

The ability to pull up designs, add notes, make changes, and project plans in the space itself helps facilitate an interactive, productive on-site presentation.

With the right mobile technology, designers can make the most of the opportunity to share and discuss designs in person.

Allowing clients to review the presentation on site makes it as relevant and tangible as possible.

Here are some key things designers need to bring and show during an on-site presentation with a client:

  • Presentation boards – Physical boards displaying materials, plans, concepts, etc.
  • Digital presentation – Laptop, tablet, or slides to present digital materials.
  • Fabric swatches – Cuttings of specified upholstery and drapery fabrics.
  • Finish samples – Wood, tile, stone, wall covering samples, paint color chips.
  • Furnishings plan – A detailed FF&E schedule and product specs.
  • Floor plans – Scaled drawings of the space layout and furniture arrangements.
  • Lighting plans – Technical lighting specifications and layouts.
  • Finish plans – Drawings or schedules showing all finishes.
  • Plumbing/Electrical plans – If applicable, show rough-in locations.
  • Architectural details – Drawings of millwork, ceilings, built-ins, etc.
  • Perspective sketches – Hand-drawn 3D perspectives of the space.
  • Color renderings – Digitally rendered views of the proposed design.
  • Models – Physical scale models, potentially with materials/finishes.
  • Photography – Before photos, site photos, comparative photos.
  • Specification book – Detailed specifications for all products.

Do designers do free presentations?

Most professional interior designers do not provide full design presentations for free.

However, there are a few scenarios where a designer may provide some initial ideas without charge :

  • Initial Consultation – Many designers offer free initial consultations to discuss the project scope and determine if they are a good fit for the client.
  • Concept Sketches – Some designers may provide a few rough concept sketches at no cost to give a sense of their design approach.
  • Sample Boards – Small sample boards with a couple finish options are sometimes provided as part of an initial meeting.
  • Portfolio – Designers will freely show their work portfolio during meetings.
  • Proposal – When bidding on a project, a presentation or proposal may be offered.
  • Existing Relationship – Designers working with past clients may start new projects with some pro bono work.

However, developing a full presentation with multiple detailed boards, drawings, specifications, etc takes a significant investment of the designer’s time and resources. 

Most interior design firms will charge for the full presentation, typically billing hourly or as a percent of the overall project fee.

While free consultations are common, clients should expect that a comprehensive interior design presentation will have associated costs and fees in line with the scope of work involved.

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Presentation Drawings

  • To get a better picture in your own mind of how your new extension, building or development is going to look, just so you have the peace of mind that you are doing the right thing.
  • To fully communicate the idea and feel of your new building or development to the planning department, planning committee or other interested parties. We have been asked in the past to help with another consultant’s planning application, which kept being refused planning permission – once we had given the proposal some life and realistic perspective, planning permission was granted without further ado.
  • Where you are building a new house or development and you would like to sell ‘off-plan’ – we can show how your building is goiong to look once completed, from a bird’s eye view to see the whole site, or from a person’s perspective when standing in the garden or street.

You can see a couple of examples of these on our News page. Call us on 01903 205868 to discuss your requirements and see what we can do for you, or visit our Contact page to send us an email.

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Working Drawings: Understanding their importance

  • Updated: April 18, 2024

Architecture working drawings

What are working drawing?

Working drawings, also known as construction drawings , serve as a common language between architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders in a construction project.

They are a comprehensive set of documents that provide detailed, graphical representations of a building’s or structure’s components.

The primary purpose of working drawings is to illustrate how a structure should be built, providing a clear and concise guide for construction teams.

From the blueprint of a small home renovation to the detailed schematics of a towering skyscraper, these drawings are crucial to the execution of any construction project.

They are a manifestation of the creativity and vision of the architect or designer and serve as the roadmap for the contractor and their team.

Working drawings contain essential information about the size, shape, and location of all parts of the building, as well as the type of materials to be used.

In essence, working drawings ensure that everyone involved in a project shares a unified understanding of what is to be built, preventing costly errors and misinterpretations. They translate the design concept into construction-ready format, transforming ideas into reality.

In this article, we will delve into the intricate world of working drawings, exploring their types, components, preparation process, and the challenges that come with them.

Advantages of working drawings

Working drawings are a critical part of the design and construction process and offer several advantages:

  • Detail-Oriented: They are the most detailed and specific type of construction documents. They provide intricate details of all parts of the building, down to the smallest components, to guide builders and artisans accurately.
  • Clear Communication: These drawings help to communicate the design intent clearly and concisely among all parties involved in a project. They enable architects, engineers, contractors, and even clients to visualize the project in the same manner.
  • Code Compliance: They are crucial to ensure that a project is in compliance with local building codes and regulations. They demonstrate how a project adheres to these rules, which is important for obtaining building permits and avoiding legal issues.
  • Cost Estimation: They’re used to estimate the cost of the project accurately. They provide detailed specifications that help in determining the amount and type of materials required, labor costs, and other related expenses .
  • Reduction of Errors: By providing explicit instructions and precise measurements, working drawings help reduce errors during construction, leading to cost and time savings. They also help avoid potential conflicts and misunderstandings during the construction process.
  • Quality Assurance: They serve as a reference for quality control during the construction process. The detailed plans and sections help to verify that the building is being constructed as per the design, ensuring that the final product aligns with the initial vision.
  • Contractual Document: Lastly, working drawings also serve as a part of the contractual documents between the client and the contractor. They define the scope of work, which can be helpful in resolving disputes if any arise during the project.

Types of Working Drawings

Working drawings can be classified into several types, each serving a unique purpose and containing detailed instructions specific to an aspect of a project. Here are the key types of working drawings:

Architectural Drawings:

Or general arrangement drawings (GA’s) are the foundation of all construction projects. These drawings provide a detailed representation of the overall design of the building.

They typically include floor plans, elevations, sections, and details that describe the location, geometry, and other details of all architectural elements of the building.

This might include structural and constructional details, the type and texture of the building material to be used, and even the style of windows and doors.

Structural Drawings:

Structural drawings are essential for specifying the framework of a building, such as the concrete framework, beams, columns, and foundations.

These drawings provide comprehensive details about the load-bearing structures, including dimensions, material types, and sizes.

Structural drawings can include foundation plans, framing plans, and detailed sections and are critical for ensuring the stability and safety of a building.

Electrical Drawings:

These drawings are used to layout and install the electrical systems within the building. Electrical drawings would include the location of outlets, fixtures, switches, and the route of circuitry connecting these elements.

They also provide details on the electrical load of different appliances and how they should be distributed across various circuits.

Plumbing and Sanitary Drawings:

These drawings show the design of the building’s water supply and waste disposal system. They depict the details of fixtures like sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and the path of the water supply and drainage pipes.

It also includes specifications for pipe sizes and materials, and the location of shut-off valves.

Other Specific Types of Drawings:

There are many other types of working drawings that are specific to particular disciplines or project requirements. For example, HVAC drawings provide details on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including ductwork, vent locations, and equipment details.

Similarly, fire protection drawings outline the layout and details of fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and emergency exits.

Each type of working drawing contributes to a holistic understanding of the project and ensures that all stakeholders have the detailed information they need to execute their parts of the project accurately and efficiently.

Components of Working Drawings

Elevations – Elevations provide a vertical view of the structure. They illustrate the height of the building, the position and size of windows, doors, and other architectural features.

Elevation drawings can offer four perspectives: front, rear, and both sides, providing a comprehensive view of the building’s exterior.

Floor Plans – Floor plans provide a top-down view of each floor in the building. They indicate the layout of rooms, corridors, staircases, and the placement of furniture. They also specify the placement of windows, doors, and large appliances. Floor plans are fundamental to understanding the flow and functionality of spaces within the building.

Foundation Plans – Foundation plans detail the footing, column locations, foundation walls, and other elements that provide structural integrity to the building.

These plans also indicate the type of foundation system, such as slab-on-grade, crawl space, or basement. They offer crucial information for the building’s initial construction stages.

Section Views – Section views , or cross-sections, offer a ‘cut-through’ perspective of the building. They are particularly useful in demonstrating the relationship between different levels of a building.

They provide details about construction materials, floor-to-floor heights, roofing details, and wall assembly .

Roof Framing Plans – Roof framing plans detail the design of the roof structure. They specify the type of roofing materials, the pitch of the roof, locations of gutters, downspouts, and the design and placement of trusses or rafters.

Electrical Plans – Electrical plans show the placement of outlets, fixtures, and switches, as well as the routing of circuits. They detail the locations of light fixtures, power outlets, wired devices, and electrical system layouts.

These drawings ensure the correct installation and safety of electrical components.

Construction and Architectural Details – Detailed drawings zoom in on particular areas or components of the building, providing more information than can be seen in the broader views. These can include window details, door details, eave details, staircase details, and more.

These drawings offer a close-up view of how different elements will connect and be constructed in real life, serving as a vital reference for both the design and construction teams.

The Process of Preparing Working Drawings

Creating working drawings is typically a collaborative process involving architects, engineers, and sometimes specialized drafters. The responsibility for preparing these drawings is usually assigned to the professional most suitable for each type of drawing.

For instance, architects primarily handle architectural drawings, structural engineers tackle structural drawings, and so on.

The process of preparing working drawings typically begins after the preliminary design has been finalized and approved, serving as a critical bridge between design and execution phases.

Use of CAD and BIM in Preparing Working Drawings

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) have revolutionized the process of preparing working drawings. CAD enables drafters to create 2D or 3D graphical representations of physical objects, while BIM extends this capacity by incorporating information about a building’s characteristics and functionality.

Programs like AutoCAD and Revit are widely used in this process. They not only increase accuracy and efficiency but also facilitate easier changes and corrections.

Importance of Compliance with Industry Standards and Building Codes

One of the essential aspects of preparing working drawings is ensuring compliance with industry standards and building codes. These include regulations regarding safety, environmental impact, accessibility, and other essential factors.

A well-prepared working drawing will adhere to all these requirements, providing a clear roadmap for builders to follow. Any deviation from these codes and standards can lead to legal complications, increased costs, and potential project delays.

While preparing these drawings, it’s also crucial to consider practical aspects such as the ease of construction and materials availability. Careful attention to such details will ensure a smooth construction process and ultimately lead to a successful project outcome.

Challenges and Common Issues in Working Drawings

Coordination among these professionals is crucial to ensure that the information provided in the drawings is consistent and coherent. Without effective communication, discrepancies might occur leading to unnecessary revisions, delays, and increased costs.

Errors and Omissions – Despite the precision tools and technologies available today, errors and omissions in working drawings are still a common issue. This can be due to human error, miscommunication, or lack of understanding of the project requirements.

Such errors can lead to serious consequences including incorrect construction, wasted materials, time delays, and increased expenses.

Information Accessibility – Often, the data included in the working drawings is complex and dense. It can be challenging for non-specialists, including clients and some contractors, to interpret the drawings accurately.

This can lead to misunderstandings and incorrect implementations. Hence, there is a need for clear and accessible presentation of information in these drawings.

Presentation Issues – Working drawings need to communicate a great deal of information in a concise and clear manner. However, poor presentation can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.

This includes unclear labeling, improper scaling, or overcrowded details. It is important to maintain a balance between providing all necessary details and keeping the drawings readable and understandable.

Use of Outdated Information – In the dynamic field of construction, building codes, standards, and technologies are constantly evolving. There’s a risk that professionals might use outdated information while preparing working drawings.

This could result in non-compliance with the latest codes and standards, leading to legal issues, safety risks, and the potential need for costly revisions.

In order to mitigate these common issues, thorough checking procedures, effective communication, continuous learning, and proper use of technology should be prioritized by the teams responsible for creating working drawings.

Working Drawings vs Shop Drawings

Working Drawings and Shop Drawings are both essential components in the construction process, but they serve different functions and are utilized by different parties in the project.

Working Drawings:

  • Definition: Working drawings, also known as construction drawings, are comprehensive, detailed sets of plans that provide instructions on how to construct a building. They are prepared by architects and engineers and typically include site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, and details.
  • Purpose: Their main purpose is to communicate the design intent of the architect or designer to the contractor and workers on site. They are used as a guide for the construction process.
  • Content: These drawings are more detailed than preliminary sketches, as they show every part of the project in detail, specifying the location, dimension, type of materials, finishes, and more.

Shop Drawings:

  • Definition: Shop drawings are a subset of the working drawings, prepared by contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, or fabricators. They provide more detailed information about individual components that need to be manufactured or fabricated, such as custom cabinetry, windows, doors, or equipment.
  • Purpose: They are mainly used to explain how a specific part of the project will be produced or installed. They detail the specifics of the material, fabrication, sizing, and installation of components.
  • Content: Shop drawings are generally more detailed than working drawings, providing a deeper level of detail about the fabrication or installation of specific components. These drawings often include specific measurements, manufacturing conventions, and sometimes even exact product specifications .

In a nutshell, working drawings provide an overview of the entire construction process, while shop drawings zoom in on the details of specific elements or components.

Both types of drawings are crucial for the successful completion of a project, but they are used by different stakeholders at different stages of the project.

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Michelangelo's drawing 'Phaeton'

Michelangelo and the mastery of drawing

O ne of the most common complaints made about today's artists is their apparent inability to draw. In matters of art, no question is more decisive, more majestically final, than: "But can he/she draw?" In a melodramatic hatchet job on Francis Bacon, Picasso biographer John Richardson recently claimed that Bacon's "graphic ineptitude" was his Achilles heel: "Tragically, he failed to teach himself to draw."

The pro-life-drawing movement is one of the most lasting legacies of the artistic Renaissance in Florence, for it was here that disegno (design or drawing) was enshrined as the source of all visual competence. The first art academy, founded in Florence in 1563 on the urging of Giorgio Vasari, was called the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno, and the curriculum centred on drawing of the live (and dead) model, and of approved artworks that would enable the aspiring artist to "correct" nature.

Michelangelo, a compulsive drawer whose most exquisite creations are the subject of a major exhibition at the Courtauld Institute Galleries, was being typically Florentine when he asserted that "Design, which by another name is called drawing . . . is the fount and body of painting and sculpture and architecture and of every other kind of painting and the root of all sciences." The preliminary drawings of artists are here seen as essential to the advancement of learning as the technical drawings made or commissioned by mathematicians, engineers, doctors and scientists.

The technical similarities between drawing and writing also added hugely to the former's allure and status. Florence had the highest literacy rates in Europe, and was justifiably proud that Dante, Petrarch and Boccaccio had established Tuscan as the pre-eminent Italian tongue. Artists wanted to share in that prestige, and establish the visual arts as a major liberal art. The two pre-eminent Tuscan draftsmen, Leonardo and Michelangelo, were also the most literate, and their sketches are interspersed with texts written in an elegant, calligraphic script. Michelangelo's drawings are interspersed with his own poems, and extracts from the Tuscan greats. Later collectors of drawings concurred: they bound them into books and kept them in their libraries. It is no accident that literature-loving England has the greatest collections of old master drawings, including those by Michelangelo.

Michelangelo furnishes us with the first and most famous "but can he draw?" anecdote. Vasari reports how they both visited Titian's temporary studio in Rome, and were confronted by a steamy nude painting of Danaë being inseminated by Jupiter in the guise of a shower of gold. Her pose derives from Michelangelo's sculpture Night in the Medici Chapel. Michelangelo, having praised Titian's colour and style, regretted that in Venice painters did not learn how to draw methodically from the start of their careers – what a great artist Titian would have been if only he knew how to draw!

Vasari smugly adds that if the artist "has not drawn a great deal and studied carefully selected ancient and modern works, he cannot by himself work well from memory or enhance what he copies from life". Here, priority is given to "intelligently" drawn line over "instinctively" painted colour, and this became an article of faith for all future art academies: the first director of the French Académie Royale, founded in 1648, asserted that, without drawing, painters would not rank any higher than colour grinders, the lackeys who prepared pigment.

Yet Michelangelo's attack on Venetian painting points to a serious flaw in the argument. One can compile an extremely impressive list of great (and mostly unliterary) artists who got by nicely without bothering unduly with drawing. They displayed not so much graphic ineptitude as indifference. Giorgione, Titian, Caravaggio, Hals, Velázquez and Vermeer seem to have painted directly on to the canvas, just incising or brushing in a few outlines. Indeed, drawing as a major artform has been in spasmodic but continuous decline since the 17th century: most drawings by great artists after about 1850, including Manet, Cézanne, Picasso and Matisse, are barely worth exhibiting and are of interest only to specialist scholars. Bacon represents the rule rather than the exception.

The aesthetic and intellectual highpoints of academic drawing are Michelangelo's so-called "presentation drawings", created in the early 1530s as pedagogic gifts for the young Roman aristocrat Tommaso de' Cavalieri, who was learning to draw. Using largely pagan subject matter, and made using red or black chalk, they tell moralising tales, mostly about men and love. They are Michelangelo's most highly finished and elaborate drawings, and as technical and imaginative feats have never been surpassed. The Courtauld exhibition, expertly curated by Stephanie Buck and with a substantial catalogue, is the most important ever devoted to them.

The "divine" artist, then in his late 50s, had fallen in love with the teenage Cavalieri, who was famously beautiful, refined and (for his age) cultured. Michelangelo's feelings were reciprocated, and so he sent rapturous love letters and poems (several manuscripts are included), and drawings which his young protégé copied and commented on. It is the greatest correspondence course ever conducted. Drawing had become a respectable pastime for Italian aristocrats. In Castiglione's famous conduct book The Courtier (1528), drawing lessons are recommended – drawing enables us to appreciate the beauty and proportions of living bodies and the whole of the natural world, as well as to make maps for warfare.

Although Michelangelo was evidently homosexual, it seems unlikely his relationship with Cavalieri was ever consummated. The evidence suggests he was for the most part celibate, and in 1529 he had held high rank in the short-lived republican government of Florence, which was ardently anti-sodomite. The affair was conducted openly, with the drawings and poems being shown immediately to friends and to members of the papal court, and to artists who copied the drawings. Indeed, it was not uncommon for an aristocratic youth to have an older man as a mentor and even "platonic lover" – a term that had been coined by the Florentine philosopher Marsilio Ficino. In Ficino's  Commentary on Plato's Symposium on Love (1474), written for Michelangelo's first patron, Lorenzo de' Medici, the relationship between an older man and a boy had been given the most exalted status:

"Among lovers beauty is exchanged for beauty. A man enjoys the beauty of a beloved youth with his eyes. The youth enjoys the beauty of the man with his Intellect. And he who is beautiful in body only, by this association becomes beautiful also in soul. He who is only beautiful in soul fills his bodily eyes with the beauty of the boy's body. Truly this is a wonderful exchange. Virtuous, useful, and pleasant to both."

The man receives supreme sight-food; the boy, supreme soul-food.

Ficino, a famous teacher, believed that the teacher-pupil relationship should always be based on mutual love. Turning to the visual arts, he insisted that whoever loves works of art and the people for whom they are made "executes [them] diligently and completes them exactly". This is the formal framework within which Michelangelo and Cavalieri's relationship is conducted. Ficino insisted that such relationships should not have a physical component (look and listen but don't touch or lust). Yet Michelangelo's poems, letters and drawings leave us in no doubt that he was often straining at the leash. In one poem, Michelangelo dreams of a day when he can hold Cavalieri for ever in his "unworthy yet ready" arms; then, more masochistically, he wishes his own skin could be flayed and made into a gown and shoes to be worn by his beloved. He wouldn't be allowed to teach this way today.

At the Courtauld, we can see all three versions of The Fall of Phaeton , a story highlighting the dangers of youthful hubris. The first drawing carries a note along the bottom whose modesty is amazing when we consider Michelangelo was at the height of his powers and prestige: "Messer Tommaso, if this sketch does not please you, say so to Urbino [Michelangelo's servant] in time for me to do another tomorrow evening, as I promised you; and if it pleases you and you wish me to finish it, send it back to me."

It seems the first version didn't get Cavalieri's complete approval (and Michelangelo was probably already dissatisfied), because the final version is more tightly structured and elongated. Phaeton was granted a single wish by his father Apollo, and chose to drive the chariot of the sun. When Phaeton lost control, Jupiter struck him with a thunderbolt to save the earth from incineration. Michelangelo made a vertical triptych shaped like an isosceles triangle, with Jupiter astride an eagle at the top, Phaeton tumbling spectacularly from his horse-drawn chariot in the middle, and his weeping sisters being transformed into trees at the bottom. All the figures are nude, and the whole intricate mise en scène presages Christ's casting down of the damned in the Last Judgment (1534-41).

The Courtauld is staging this exhibition both because the British Museum bizarrely excluded the Cavalieri drawings from its Michelangelo exhibition in 2006, and because the Courtauld owns one of the most compelling, known as The Dream . Its focal point is a lithe male nude perched on an open-fronted box. He leans back against a large sphere, signifying the world, which he clasps. Inside the box are a selection of different theatrical masks, suggesting deceptive and illusory pleasures. In the hazily sketched background is a heaving semi-circle of interlocking figures representing six of the seven deadly sins – Gluttony, Lechery, Avarice, Wrath, Envy and Sloth. The central male nude must signify Pride, yet he is being awoken from his deluded state by a trumpet-blast from an angelic winged boy, who has swooped down from the sky.

It's ostensibly a picture concerned with spiritual rebirth, but this reading is qualified by the explicitness and ingenuity with which Michelangelo has depicted the sinners – above all the Lustful, who spring up from the curve made by the dreamer's torso and thigh. There are two heterosexual couples, one nude and in flagrante, with the man's penis exposed; the other semi-clad and kissing (with the woman dominant). Michelangelo also depicted a huge erect phallus held by a hand emerging from clouds, and a graffiti-style penis. A naked man seen from behind, beneath the unattached members, may allude to homosexuality.

The penises were mostly erased by a subsequent owner of the drawing, and we know about them from a print made after the drawing, which is shown nearby. Here, too, Michelangelo seems to be straining at the leash, revelling in the power of the penis just as he denounces it. Like St Augustine in the Confessions , he may have muttered to himself: "Grant me chastity and continence, Oh Lord, but please, not yet."

The term "presentation drawing" – a finished drawing made as a gift – was devised by the great Michelangelo scholar Johannes Wilde (1891-1970), who taught at the Courtauld and was directly responsible for its acquisition of the Seilern collection, which included The Dream . There have since been many contrived attempts to trace a lineage for Michelangelo's presentation drawings in earlier Renaissance art, but beyond a few portrait heads or modest figure studies, there are no directly comparable drawings, and certainly not enough to suggest the existence of a genre.

I believe the only real precursors and indeed the inspiration for Michelangelo's drawings for Cavalieri were the enigmatic mythological prints made by artists such as Mantegna, Marcantonio Raimondi and especially Dürer, which were often given away as gifts. In terms of their range of mark-making and finesse, Michelangelo's presentation drawings for Cavalieri are the first drawings to surpass Dürer's prints, which were widely admired in Italy. In the past, many scholars claimed that Michelangelo despised this "minor" reproductive artform, but he must have been thinking a great deal about prints because he planned to publish a (never-completed) illustrated treatise on movements and gestures. The exhibition runs with this idea, and gives a starring role to Dürer and print-making.

The most risqué section of The Dream must have been informed by a very different kind of print, because in the 1520s the first illustrated pornography books were published – Marcantonio's I Modi ( The Positions ) with each of the 16 images accompanied by an obscene sonnet by Pietro Aretino, and Perino del Vaga's less explicit Loves of the Gods . The pope banned I Modi "since some of these sheets were found in places where they were least expected" (Vasari), and it seems inconceivable that Cavalieri (who collected prints) had not seen them, because otherwise Michelangelo's mini- Modi would have been too shocking.

The painstaking mark-making of the Cavalieri drawings is also found in a series of images of Christ made for the devout aristocrat Vittoria Colonna in the late 1530s, which she studied with a magnifying glass. But after that, Michelangelo turns his back on precision, perfection, beauty, control. In a parallel display, the Courtauld is showing its black chalk drawing Christ on the Cross (c1555-60), made when Michelangelo was in his 80s. It is defiantly anti-academic. Each line is drawn and then redrawn, so that Christ's slumped body becomes a quivering, boneless mirage, flayed and frayed, a crumpled cloak that a tramp might wear. Fra Angelico supposedly wept every time he painted a crucifixion, and Michelangelo's tremulous technique implies that he drew with and through tears. Michelangelo's younger self would surely have said: if only he had learned how to draw!

Michelangelo's Dream is at the Courtauld Gallery, London WC2 (020 7848 2526) until 16 May.

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What is the purpose of a presentation drawing?

what is presentation drawings

Table of Contents

  • 1 What is the purpose of a presentation drawing?
  • 2 What is the benefit of freehand drawing?
  • 3 Why are visuals so important?
  • 4 What is a purpose of working drawing?
  • 5 Are there any health benefits to drawing and painting?

Another type of drawing is a presentation drawing. The purpose is to describe the design. Generally, presentation drawings are shown to clients during the design process. While in school, these drawings are presented to instructors and classmates.

Why are visuals important in presentations?

In summary Visual aids are worth including in your presentations because they can help you explain information more coherently which makes presenting easier for you and learning easier for the audience. They also help add variety to your presentation thus making it more interesting for the audience.

What does presentation drawing mean?

Any of a set of design drawings made to articulate and communicate a design concept or proposal; such as for an exhibition, review, or publication.

What is the benefit of freehand drawing?

Freehand drawing enables visualization of an idea in the form of a sketch. It is also a universal language designers use to communicate with other participants of a project. That is why freehand drawing ought to be an inherent element of a design process, especially in the first conceptual phase.

What is the difference between presentation drawing and working drawing?

Presentation drawings Drawings intended to explain a scheme and to promote its merits. Working drawings may include tones or hatches to emphasize different materials, but they are diagrams, not intended to appear realistic.

What do architects use to draw plans?

For architects, AutoCAD is primarily used as a 2D drawing tool for creating floor plans, elevations, and sections. The software speeds up the drawing process with pre-built objects like walls, doors, and windows that behave like real-world objects.

Why are visuals so important?

Visual communication helps the audience understand the information. It increases the comprehension of the subject matter. Types of two-dimensional images which aid communication include drawings, pie charts, animation, signs, typography, graphic designs, among many others.

Why is it important to use color when preparing a presentation?

Why is it important to use color when preparing a presentation aid? Color adds visual interest to your aid. Most members of an audience are used to colored media; black and white is considered “boring”. A manipulative aid is any presentation aid that the speaker actively changes during the course of the speech.

What is in working drawing?

Working drawings and specifications are the primary working documents used by a contractor to bid and execute a project. Specifications are the written documents that go with the construction documents and describe the materials as well as the installation methods.

What is a purpose of working drawing?

The primary role or function of working drawings is to convert design data into construction information and to clearly communicate that information to building industry, code officials, product manufacturers, suppliers and fabricators.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of drawing?

Why are drawings important in the design process?

Are there any health benefits to drawing and painting?

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COMMENTS

  1. What Is Presentation Drawing In Architecture

    Presentation drawing in architecture is a creative visual form of communication used to convey information about buildings, structures, and other aspects of the built environment. It is an important part of the architect's skill set and allows them to effectively communicate their ideas. Presentation drawing is used to demonstrate a building ...

  2. Presentation Drawing

    Presentation drawing, also known as a rendering, is a crucial aspect of the design process. It's a means of visually communicating ideas to clients, colleagues, and contractors. Presentation drawings can take many forms, from quick sketches to highly detailed, realistic illustrations. Regardless of the format, the goal of presentation drawing ...

  3. Architectural Drawing Standards and Types Explained

    Presentation Drawings. Presentation drawings are used to communicate the final design to clients, stakeholders, and the public. These can be rendered in various mediums and styles, from traditional watercolor to sophisticated digital 3D models, and are designed to convey the aesthetic and functional aspects of the project compellingly. ...

  4. Creating a Successful Architecture Presentation Board

    Architecture presentation boards are a tool to showcase your work. They are a way to draw your viewers into your design process and methods, providing an overall summary and vision for the project. You are communicating your design and showcasing your artistic skills, and your sense as a designer. Every successful project has a central concept ...

  5. 10 Tips for Creating Stunning Architecture Project Presentation

    There is the Black & White or Greyscale presentation where you only show lines with various thicknesses, in addition to shade and shadow. There is the greyscale presentation with an element of color where you would choose one bright color, for example, green for landscape and greenery, to contrast with the, generally, achromatic drawings.

  6. Plan Graphics for Presentation Drawings

    For presentation plan drawings the necessary annotations are minimal. They include section tags, drawing titles, north arrows and scale notations. The sizes noted below are recommendations for 1/8" scale plans. If you are printing to a different scale, it is recommended that you adjust the sizes of the graphics.

  7. (PDF) Chapter 41 Presentation Drawings

    Presentation drawings are the drawings that are used to convey basic design concepts from the design team to the owner or other interested persons. Presentation drawings are a very important part of public hearings and design reviews as a structure is studied by government and private agencies to determine its impact on the community. In ...

  8. Four Choices in Architectural Presentation Drawings

    Winning a project bid requires architectural presentation drawings that demonstrate to the potential client the merits of the structure's design concept and is a direct indication of an architectural firm's skill in creativity and technical ability. Poorly drafted presentation drawings can result in losing great projects to other firms. We offer four different avenues to presenting your ...

  9. Architecture presentation techniques

    The single line drawing presentation styles is used extensively these days, where the presentation appears to be more an info-graphic than an architectural drawing. This style is used mostly when the 3D view expresses the major portion of the design and the elevation and section drawings are merely present for further understanding. Often ...

  10. 10 Benefits Of Live Drawing For Presentations- No Artistic Skills

    Creating effective presentation drawings requires a combination of skills, tools, and considerations to ensure that your visuals are engaging and communicate your message effectively. Here are the 7 key requirements for presentation drawing: 1. Clear Message and Objective: The foundation of a successful presentation drawing is a well-defined ...

  11. Full article: How architectural drawings work

    The presentation format of the drawings — the sketchy plan and perspective view — is not simply a mode of presentation; it is also a working medium. What this alerts us to, is the idea that there is a fundamentally visual quality to architectural thought.

  12. Presentation drawing

    Presentation drawings were finished, non-utilitarian works of art, as opposed to preparatory drawings for a work in another medium. The earliest known presentation drawings dating from the Italian Renaissance are two drawings of the 1420s by Lorenzo Monaco. From: presentation drawing in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Art Terms ».

  13. How to Draw on Google Slides

    Open your presentation and select the slide you want to use. Go to Insert in the menu, move your cursor to Line, and choose "Scribble" in the pop-out menu. You can also use the line, arrow, and other tools if you like. You'll see your cursor transform into a crosshair symbol. Use that to draw on the slide.

  14. Final architecture presentation drawings

    Final architecture presentation drawings. In past blogs, I have emphasized the importance of sketching as integrative design process.While these learned skills never fail to assist a student's ability to investigative their project, this blog emphasizes the other end of the spectrum; namely the need to create a successful final presentation.

  15. What is a Construction Drawing?

    Drawing: This is the main part of the drawing that shows the layout and design of the building or structure, including the floor plans, elevations, and sections. Together, these five parts of a construction drawing provide a comprehensive representation of the building or structure, including its design, layout, and specifications. They are ...

  16. Why Interior Design Presentation process is important?

    The presentation ensures the design is aligned with the client's programming needs and goals early in the process. The schematic presentation is an important first step in bringing the client into the design process. It initiates a dialogue that continues through the evolution of the design in subsequent presentations.

  17. Presentation Drawings

    Presentation Drawings. We are often called upon to produce drawings and images of new buildings or developments, showing how they are intended to look once completed. These can be useful in the following situations: To get a better picture in your own mind of how your new extension, building or development is going to look, just so you have the ...

  18. What is presentation drawing in architecture?

    Presentation drawing in architecture is the production of a drawing for the purpose of gaining support, such as at a presentation of an architectural...

  19. Working Drawings: Understanding their importance

    Presentation Issues - Working drawings need to communicate a great deal of information in a concise and clear manner. However, poor presentation can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. This includes unclear labeling, improper scaling, or overcrowded details. It is important to maintain a balance between providing all necessary details ...

  20. How to Draw a Presentation (drawing tips)

    Learn how to doodle at IQ Doodle School: https://school.iqdoodle.com/Step 1: How would you draw a presentation? Is there an easy way to represent this? Well,...

  21. Michelangelo and the mastery of drawing

    Michelangelo's astonishing 'presentation drawings', lessons in art technique for a young aristocrat he adored, tell pagan stories about men and love. The exhibition at the Courtauld is the most ...

  22. What is the purpose of a presentation drawing?

    The primary role or function of working drawings is to convert design data into construction information and to clearly communicate that information to building industry, code officials, product manufacturers, suppliers and fabricators. Another type of drawing is a presentation drawing. The purpose is to describe the design.