what is architecture assignment

Architecture Assignment Brief Guide

Introduction.

Throughout your architecture studies, you will carry out countless architecture assignments. These assignments will take many different forms. You certainly won’t just be asked to write essays. Whether it is model making, dissertations, designing spaces or carrying out research, it is really important to understand how to get the best out of yourself for these assignments. 

Much of this comes from understanding how to break down an assignment brief to establish what is being asked of you. Secondly, it is being productive with your time and carrying out the work efficiently.

S tudy is more about efficiency than time. Some people boast about the hours they have spent researching, reading or studying, but if they have not been productive with their time it doesn’t really count for anything. However, if you maintain an effective process in carrying out your research, study, reading, note taking and so on, you will find you get better results in half the time.

Scroll to the end to download this article as a handy PDF guide!

Understanding your assignment brief.

Generally speaking, when you are provided with an architecture assignment brief, the brief will establish the main criteria for the assignment. You will usually be given details of the assignment, the learning objectives, intended learning outcomes, assessment requirements, deadline, presentation, and so on.

With student projects that are developed without a client focus, it is possible to consider the site or place as the client, and consider the needs of the site itself, and how the project design is going to meet those needs.

Since the brief will contain a lot of information, make sure you read it a couple of times to fully understand it. As you do this, you can even highlight key words that stand out to you or make a note of things that you don’t really get. Feel free to write down some initial ideas that may pop up as well. 

Once you have done all of this, put the brief to one side and come back to read it at a later point. Doing this will help some of those initial ideas breathe a little and at the same time ensure that you do not miss anything.

It is really important to extract from the assignment brief as much information as possible, and be aware not only of what is being asked of you, but also what is the expected outcome. Understanding this, will help you structure your assignment and time more efficiently.

Let’s look at each part in a bit more detail.

The main assignment information

The main assignment – what is being asked of you? What are you looking for? What information will you need to gather? What problem do you need to solve?

Pick out the keywords associated with the question or brief. Then make a list of alternative keywords that will help you in your search to find relevant information.

We found this really useful guide to process words. This was courtesy of the University of Westminster (https://www.westminster.ac.uk/library-and-it/support-and-study-skills/guides-and-tutorials/researching-your-assignments/understanding-essay-questions/understanding-process-words) and originally from the Student Study Support Unit at Canterbury Christchurch College.

Account for

Explain, clarify, give the reasons for. This is quite different from “give an account of…” which is more like “describe in detail”.

Break an issue down into its component parts, discuss them and show how they interrelate.

Make a case, based on appropriate evidence and logically structured for and/or against some point of view.

Consider the value or importance of something, paying attention to positive, negative and disputable aspects, and citing the judgements of any known authorities as well as your own.

This term asks for a combination of the criteria found in “analyse” and “assess”. Although it sounds as if it would be similar to “describe “or “summarise” it is asking you to be critical and evaluative in your approach.

Identify and discuss the characteristics or qualities two or more things have in common you will probably need to point out their differences as well. Quite often an essay will ask you to “compare” and “contrast”.

Point out and discuss the differences between two things. You will probably need to identify their similarities as well. Quite often an essay will ask you to “compare” and “contrast”.

Spell out your judgement as to the value or truth of something, indicating the criteria on which you base your judgement and citing specific instances and arguments as to how the criteria apply in this case.

Make a statement as to the meaning or interpretation of something, giving sufficient detail as to allow it to be distinguished from other similar things.

Spell out the default aspects of an idea or topic, or the sequence in which a series of things happened.

Probably the most common word to appear in essay titles and usually requiring analysis and evaluation of evidence as well as weighing up arguments and drawing conclusions.

Similar to “assess” in that you need to consider the value and importance of something and weigh up its different aspects, citing evidence and argument in support of your case.

Tell how things work or how they came to be the way they are, including perhaps some need to “describe” and to “analyse”.

To what extent

Explore the case for a stated proposition or explanation, much in the manner of “assess” and “criticise”, probably arguing for a less than total acceptance of the proposition.

Pick out what you regard as the key features of something, perhaps making clear the criteria you use in doing so.

Similar to “explain” but probably requesting you give specific examples or statistics to support your case.

Clarify something or explain it, perhaps indicating how the thing relates to something else, or explaining a particular way of looking at it.

Express valid reasons for accepting a particular interpretation or conclusion, probably including the need to argue a case.

Indicate the main features of a topic or sequence of events, possibly setting them within a clear structure or framework to show how they interrelate.

Survey a topic with the emphasis on “assess” rather than “describe”.

Give the main points briefly, omitting details and illustrations.

Describe in narrative form the progress, development or sequence of events from some particular point.

Learning objectives and outcomes

Why are these important? The learning objectives and outcomes usually list what the student will have learnt or achieved by the end of the module or assignment. Being aware of these outcomes and objectives might inform the direction you take with your assignment.

Let’s say for example, one of the objectives is for the student to understand how a building fits into a local context. This is suggesting that during the assignment it will likely be important that you consider the local context when carrying out your research or design. How will you demonstrate that you have considered this? How will you present this information?

You get the idea….

Assessment requirements / presentation / deadline

Of course, this is the really important stuff. What do you have to produce, and by when?

Some assignment briefs will show how many credits each part of the assignment is worth. This is really useful as it can help you to understand which parts of the assignment carry more weight, and therefore focus more time on those areas.

If your assignment is asking for submissions in multiple media formats, for example, plans, an isometric, photographs, a model, design journal etc, I find it useful to sketch out a storyboard of how that might look. To make bullet points into a more visual storyboard can help you start to envisage what your final output might look like.

As your assignment develops and you get closer to the end of the project you can start to make a more detailed storyboard of the expected output. This type of thing is particularly useful for design projects when you need to produce multiple sets of drawings, visuals and so on.

If it is a large assignment, with a deadline in the distant future, consider breaking it down into chunks, making milestones that you have to achieve by certain dates. This will help spread the work out, give you plenty of time to complete the assignment and not leave everything till the last minute.

So now you understand your project brief, you know what is required of you and what the output must be.

Marking Criteria / Grading Matrix

Sometimes, your university may even provide a matrix that will be used by your tutors to grade your assignments. Access to this can be beneficial as you will be able to identify the key criteria needed to get the best marks. 

If you are working on an assignment with a later deadline, you can set a milestone wherein you use the provided marking matrix and grade yourself. You can even get your friends or studio mates to grade your work. Doing this will help you see where your work stands and how you can improve it.

Thinking outside the box

As you start forming ideas and reflecting on your assignment brief, do not be afraid to push some boundaries and test your ideas. Student project briefs are meant to give you a starting point. Some university briefs may give you some flexibility as to what direction you take the project. But definitely consult your tutors for advice in this regard. 

Carry out your research

Depending on the type of assignment you are working on, it is easy to skip the research and start sketching out ideas and getting carried away with the fun stuff before really understanding the task in hand.

Check the assignment brief for any suggested or compulsory reference material that you should check out.

Next, start collecting information.

If you are a student, the chances are you will have access to a library with some sort of electronic database. This is a good place to start finding the resources you need. Every system is different, so if you aren’t sure how to access the information you are looking for, speak with your librarian, I’m sure they will be very happy to help.

Don’t forget there is more to life than just the internet! Yes, google comes up with some good results, but you need to expand your research beyond the comfort and ease of google. Make sure you consider books, journals, articles, audio, video as part of your research wherever possible. This will give you a much wider and valuable set of information to start your work from.

If the course you are enrolled in has been running for a few years, chances are the university will provide you with some previous year examples. These can act as guides and really help you visualise what is expected of you. Do be careful not to blindly follow these examples though, as the assignment brief for your year may have been altered.

Try to find case studies and precedents relevant to your assignment requirements. This will help you dive deep into real world responses that your assignment may be asking you to investigate.

Check out our helpful post on Precedent studies:

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/architecture-precedent-study-and-analysis/

• Film and television programmes
• Market research
• Official publications (government etc)
• British Standards Institution
• Manufacturer information
• Previous year student work

Be careful not to spend too much time researching and not enough time actually doing. Limit your research to a certain amount of time, then get started. If you find you still need more information later, you can circle back and do a bit more research.

Make an outline

Call it what you will, a journey, road map, plan. Start looking at the bigger picture of the assignment, what topics are you tackling? Of course, the requirements of a plan or outline will vary wildly according to the type of assignment you are doing. A great start to an essay is usually a simple outline that helps you get from A to B. A studio design project might be a bit different.

Either way, make a bit of a plan, however loose it may be. Having a list of topics or titles can really help to get started when you are stuck on writing. Rather look at the broader picture first and then start fleshing out the details, instead of trying to get into the details straight away which can be daunting.

Be productive with your time

This is pretty obvious, but in a way it’s not. Sometimes you can get caught up on a tiny detail without realising you have lost hours to something that has a small part to play in the assignment as a whole.

Use your time wisely. You can read more about my productivity tips here.

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/work-smart-productivity-tips/

Give yourself the best working environment

You’ve read the brief, you know what is required of you. You’ve carried out your research, collected your data. Now you need to get started…

Distractions can be the perfect productivity blocker. So make sure you give yourself the working environment that you need. For some, this might be working in the busy studio, with your colleagues around you to bounce ideas. Others might need a quiet space to work alone, without distractions of social media, friends etc.

Do what works for you. Maybe you work better by minimising distractions. Switching off your email, putting your phone on silent, and playing some background music (that has no words!), can prove to be really helpful. Try to figure out your working style and identify your distractions so you can best combat them!

Remember – quality, not hours spent…

Make sure you are making good quality work, not just spending hours on something for the sake of it. Architects can be perfectionists, and it is easy to tweak, adjust, tweak for hours on end. Be aware, there comes a point where the tweaks you make won’t be having a positive affect on your overall mark, just a sap on your time. Stay focussed.

Keep checking the assignment brief to be sure you are covering all of the tasks that are being asked of you, and you have a plan to produce each of the items that form part of the assignment, whether it be drawings, models etc.

Review – later

If you are writing an essay, take time away from the assignment before coming back to make edits. You need to give yourself a break from writing before returning to read it through with fresh eyes.

If it is a big design project, then you will no doubt continue to review and edit as you work through your design solutions.

Our Architecture Assignment Planner

To help you carry out the points mentioned in our post, we have produced an Architecture Assignment Planner. This planner follows a Gantt chart layout with broken down assignments on the left and a time scale that runs across the top.

Now, a Gantt chart is mostly used in project management, and is one of the most popular and useful ways of showing tasks or events displayed against time. Wish to learn more? Check this out:

What is a Gantt Chart? Gantt Chart Software, Information, and History

We created this planner so that as a student you will be familiar with using this type of format, if you come across it at a professional level. 

After you dissect your brief and identify your key deliverables, simply slot them into this planner and curate it to your own liking. It will help you have an overview of the tasks you need to have completed and the time you have until your big deadline.

You could even incorporate little milestones in your planner to help you evaluate your work. Simply schedule days to refer back to the assignment brief and see what you have yet to cover and what areas you could improve further.

We have included a hypothetical project to give you an idea on how to use it.

Start using our Architecture Assignment Planner and get organised!

Download the Guide!

Download this helpful article as a pdf to keep for reference later. The download also includes access to our Assignment Planner!

You might also be interested in:

We have lots of helpful architecture student content. Be sure to check it out:

Architecture assignments are often huge bodies of work that can feel insurmountable at times. Breaking it down into manageable chunks, and drawing out what the deliverables will be can really help.

Give yourself the right environment to work in, be structured in your approach to the project, and take note of the weight of each part of the assignment.

Best of luck!

Other recent posts…

Permitted Development Rights for House Extensions

Introduction to Permitted Development Rights When extending a house in the UK, understanding Permitted Development rights is essential for architects and homeowners alike. These rights allow certain building works and changes to be carried out without the need for a...

Detail Library – New Details March 2024

New Details This month we are excited to share another set of details that have been requested regularly by our members. This set consists of external wall insulation details. In this set we explore a solid blockwork wall with 190mm mineral wool insulation and a...

Understanding and Applying Architectural Parti in Design

In architecture, the term "parti" refers to the central idea or concept of a building design. It's essentially the starting point or organising thought that guides the design process. The parti can be a specific shape, a structural system, a key relationship in the...

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Read More

Defining Architecture

This chapter introduces our framework for examining architecture as the entirety of the built environment. Rather than defining architectural achievement only through the lens of “masterpieces,” our approach throughout this text will be to consider what everyday, vernacular structures can teach us about ourselves and our built environment.

The two readings below set up why studying the structures that surround us everyday is so important. There are reflection questions for both the Huxtable reading and the Goldberger text at the end of this textbook .

• Ada Louise Huxtable, “ The Art We Cannot Afford to Ignore (But Do) ” (New York Times, Sunday, May 4, 1958)
• Paul Goldberger, “Meaning, Culture, and Symbol,” Chapter 1 from Why Architecture Matters (available as an eBook from Portland Community College Library)

The two videos below complement the material presented in the Huxtable reading and Chapter 1 of the Goldberger text. These videos also outline broader issues of why we build and the different functions of architecture.

• “ Jim Olson: Why Architecture Matters ” (JSMAWSU via YouTube, 1:55)
• “ Daniel Libeskind: 17 Words of Architectural Inspiration ” (TED Talks via YouTube, 18:24)

Stop & Reflect

This brief video outlines some important functions of architecture. It also brings up the importance of both functionality and aesthetics to the art of building. As you watch the video, keep the following questions in mind:

• In what ways is architecture an extension of ourselves?
• What are some of the different functions of architecture described in the video?
• How does architecture communicate?
• What gives meaning to architecture?

Daniel Libeskind (b. 1946) is a prominent Polish-American architect who founded his eponymous studio in 1989. He is known for his commitment to evoking memory and place with his designs and often takes inspiration from music, philosophy, literature, and poetry. Some of Libeskind’s buildings include the Jewish Museum Berlin in Berlin, Germany (2001), the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Canada (2007), and the World Trade Center Master Plan , New York, NY (2003).

In this TED Talk, Libeskind reviews different projects using adjectives to describe his practice. It’s a helpful video to excite viewers about the potential of architecture to both reflect the past and look towards the future. Libeskind’s work is considered Deconstructivist , which is a branch of Postmodern design. Deconstructivist architecture uses diagonal lines to inspire movement and incorporates distorted shapes to suggest fragmentation. It is an often imposing style that confronts the viewer with large cantilevered forms and sharp angles.

After watching the video, discuss the aesthetics of Deconstructivism to prompt deeper reflection about how notions of beauty are formed in architecture. Deconstructivism is discussed further in Chapter 4 of this text, using Zaha Hadid’s designs as an example.

• Consider your reaction to Libeskind’s work and think about the effect of his buildings on the viewer.
• How does the architect use shape and form to generate meaning and symbolism in his structures? How do they reflect history?
• Why do you think Libeskind would use the architectural language of Deconstructivism to honor the history of a place?

Key Structures

The structures listed below are featured in the Goldberger textbook (if using) and can be used as specific examples to discuss the main ideas surrounding function and architecture, as well as the Vitruvian Triad . The links below each structure are for further exploration and images.

• This example can be used to discuss utilitarian and symbolic function.
• Watercolor and info from the British Museum
• Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown tour of the Breakfast Room courtesy of Encyclopedia Britannica
• This example is helpful in discussing utilitarian and symbolic , as well as contrast in form and texture .
• A helpful page with lots of resources about Jefferson’s campus design from the University of Virginia .
• An article from the Khan Academy discussing Jefferson’s design.
• A great resource for comparing and contrasting Monticello with the campus design.
• Information on slavery at the University of Virginia.
• A great example of different types of function ( symbolic , ethical , circulatory ).
• Smarthistory video on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
• Maya Lin on being a female architect, from TIME Magazine.

Introduction: What is Architecture and Why Does it Matter?

Simply defined, architecture is the art of designing structures and spaces. Think of all the buildings, structures, and spaces you encounter day-to-day (you can even make a list if you want to). All of these places were intentionally designed to serve a particular purpose. You likely don’t pay attention to every structure you pass by, and this is intentional. As we’ll learn, not every building is meant to stand out (these are referred to as foreground buildings) and, in fact, many are built to recede into their surroundings (a background building) to avoid visual chaos. It is important to study not only monumental icons of architectural history, but also the vernacular , or everyday, buildings we experience. Both are important to create a complete picture of the built environment .

Related to sculpture, architecture creates three-dimensional objects that occupy a given space and create a visual relationship with the space around them. The differences between the sculpture and architecture are in their scale and utility. Early human structures provided shelter from the elements. As hunter- gatherer societies transitioned to farming they made more permanent shelters, eventually forming communities, towns and cities. For thousands of years, architecture reflected the specific environment and materials available in any given region, including rock caves or huts of wood, soil and brick. Many were assemblages of materials like grasses, leaves and animal hides. Nomadic people still utilize these materials. (Modified from: Art Appreciation – Art 100 by Chris Gildow, Washington State Board for Community & Technical Colleges . This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License .)

It’s important to keep in mind that architecture is a collaborative profession. There are architects , defined as people who are licensed to design spaces and structures; engineers , who are trained to design the systems in the structures (within this category there are specializations such as civic, structural, and mechanical engineering); and landscape architects who are licensed to design all aspects of an outdoor environment. Architects also have to work collaboratively with individuals ( clients ) and entities (such as cities), in order to design spaces that are safe and adhere to building codes and best practices. Can you think of other ways architecture is collaborative?

Architecture is communication . Even at its most basic, it tells us what is important to a culture or society. Look, for example, at the bus shelter pictured below. What do the characteristics of the shelter demonstrate to the person using the space? Think about the bus shelter’s form , its materials , its use of color , and its ornament (or decoration).

You might have noted the following:

• It’s covered. There is a sloping, gabled roof that protects the person waiting for the bus from the weather.
• It has a place to sit down.
• It uses color. The use of green is carried throughout the structure, framing the etched glass panels and the timber supports for the roof.
• It uses a mix of materials. You can see the wood beams under the roof, the use of brick at the base of the structure, and the use of frosted and etched glass surrounding the seating area.
• Finally, observe how the shelter interacts with its surrounding environment. How are its colors, shapes, and materials echoed in the landscape and other structures?

All of these characteristics demonstrate the sense of the importance the City of Hillsboro places on designing comfortable and accessible spaces for users of public transit. Where the city might have put a simple bus stop sign and an uncovered bench to serve the utilitarian function , they instead designed a structure that welcomes the transit taker, inviting them into a protected space designed for a specific purpose.

Let’s look at another example. Pictured below are images of the exterior and interior of the Seattle Public Library, Seattle, WA designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas (b. 1944), which opened in 2004.

• Imagine you didn’t know the function , or use, of the building. Just by looking at the exterior, could you guess what it’s used for? Would you have guessed a library? Why or why not? Think about specific elements of the building’s façade , or its face, that helped form your conclusion.
• Imagine passing by this structure at street level. What does it communicate to you? How do you think it would feel to enter this library?
• How does the building interact with its surroundings? What do you notice about its size, or scale , related to the other buildings behind and next to it?
• Once inside, what different kinds of light do you notice? Is there color used? How would you describe it? What shapes do you see? Are any shapes repeated throughout the interior and exterior of the structure to form a pattern ?

This text approaches buildings in a holistic way by considering their function and context within the built environment. As you examine each example, think about what it communicates to the public, as well as how it communicates through scale, materials, and form.

The Vitruvian Triad

The ancient 1st century BCE Roman architect, scholar, and engineer, Vitruvius (Marcus Vitruvius Pollio) wrote a series of books on architecture that still influence how we evaluate the built environment today. In his writing, Vitruvius identifies three key components of a successful building: firmitas (firmness or commodity), utilitas (utility or function), and venustas (beauty or delight). You can read more about Vitruvius’s theories in this resource from the British Library . Together, these are known as the Vitruvian Triad ; we will consider the Vitruvian Triad throughout this book when examining various examples.

When considering a building’s firmness , you are evaluating its structural integrity, or asking how does the building stand up? What are its materials? How do they impart strength and stability to the structure? This is the building’s physical strength.

Let’s discuss firmness by looking at the Rotunda , pictured above, at the University of Virginia campus, which was designed by Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) in the early 19th century.

The Rotunda houses the library and is just one part of Jefferson’s original plan at the University of Virginia, which also includes campus housing for faculty and students (the Pavilions ) and a large open greenspace (the Great Lawn ). Jefferson referred to these three parts as an “ academical village .” You can see the Rotunda in the context of the Great Lawn and Pavilions in the image below.

Remember, when we’re talking about firmness in architecture, we’re looking at how the building stands up. What are the building’s materials? Does the structure seem strong and heavy, or is it light and transparent? At the University of Virginia, notice the use of red brick and white stone and white painted wood. In the detail of the Rotunda, above, you can see the brick runs in horizontal coursework. The use of brick and stone, as well as the horizontal line , helps stabilize the structure and gives it a firm base.

What other shapes and lines do you notice on the Rotunda?

You might have thought of the triangular pediment supported by tall vertical columns . These features reflect Jefferson’s interest in ancient Greek and Roman architecture, such as the Maison Carrée in France. Another influence to Jefferson’s building is the ancient Roman Pantheon , which will be discussed in the next section.

Utility refers to the function, or purpose, of a building (for example, a school, store, home, hospital, museum, bathroom, etc.). Utility, or function, asks: how are spaces arranged? How does the structure work to serve the functional needs of its occupants? There are several different types of function that we will consider when examining a building: utilitarian , symbolic , social , circulatory , psychological , and ethical .

Thinking back to our example of the Rotunda at the University of Virginia, we can say that its utilitarian , or practical, function is a library. It also has a symbolic function. Jefferson was inspired by the design of the Pantheon in Rome, Italy and created his (smaller) version of this iconic temple in Virginia. But why did Jefferson borrow from this structure, specifically?

Neoclassicism (or, “new classicism”) was a very popular style of architecture, developed in Europe in the 18th century. The style borrows the architectural language of ancient Greece and Rome through its use of pediments, columns, domes, and white marble or stone. According to historian Dr. Bryan Zygmont , “In utilizing classical architectural forms for his library, Jefferson was expressing his admiration of the ideas set forth from the classical past: democracy, learning, and permanence. And, to make it more emphatic, the Rotunda was far removed from anything that could be considered British.”

There are, of course, important differences between the two buildings; Jefferson was not directly derivative of the ancient Roman structure. If you compare the two, you can see the Rotunda has two levels of windows, letting light into the interior of the space, while the Pantheon has only an oculus , or “eye,” which is a round opening at the center of the domed roof. Light is critical to the function and symbolism of each space; the Rotunda, a library, needs abundant natural light on the interior, while the Pantheon, a temple to all the Roman gods, used only the oculus to illuminate its vast interior in order to draw symbolism to the heavens above.

What other similarities or differences do you notice between these two structures?

The term v enustas references the Roman goddess Venus, a symbol of beauty. When we consider a structure’s beauty, we are evaluating its formal elements and their aesthetic qualities. Judging a building’s formal elements (its use of light, color, space, and texture, for example) is objective, but the overall effect of these elements on the viewer will elicit a subjective response. We can also consider using the word delight instead of beauty to describe the appealing effect of an architectural structure or space on the senses; these are the qualities that are not utilitarian or mundane, but rather evoke or inspire emotion. The term delight is also separate from v enustas’ connection to Western European idealizations of beauty.

Let’s look at Maya Lin’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial to explore delight  in architecture more thoroughly, as well as reflect on some different aspects of function mentioned in the previous section.

American architect, designer, and sculptor Maya Lin (b. 1959) won a design competition with her concept for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which was completed in 1982. Lin was in her early 20s and an undergraduate student at Yale University when she entered the competition as part of a school assignment. The simplicity of her design won over the committee, but critics argued it wasn’t symbolic, representational, or monumental enough to memorialize those who fought and died during the Vietnam War.

Maya Lin’s memorial features a black granite wall with the names of over 58,000 U.S. service members who lost their lives, or went missing, during the Vietnam War. The names are about ½ an inch high and cover all 140 panels. The width of each wall of the memorial is about 246 feet and their heights vary, from about 10 feet high at the center and tapering down to about 8 inches at each end. The tallest panels have 137 lines of names with five names on each line; the smallest panels have just one line of five names. Listing the names of those dead or missing in action is a critical component of the work and was a requirement for the design competition. You can learn more about Lin’s design and the controversy she faced by visiting the Smarthistory website to view a video on her work .

With an understanding that delight is subjective, let’s discuss the impact of Lin’s work on the viewer. When approaching the memorial, the wall starts out very low, only about 8 inches high. As you move towards the center, the wall climbs to a height of over 10 feet. At the apex where the two sides meet, the viewer is swallowed by the wall. The black granite is highly polished and reflective; in the image above, you can see how it reflects back to the viewers images of themselves. Viewers are accompanied by these ghostly reflections as they read the names of the dead incised on the wall’s surface.

So what does this have to do with delight? We might consider delight here as more of an invitation to the viewer to feel and process emotion. Lin used abstraction in her design, meaning she has not incorporated any representational images of soldiers, for example (though a representational sculpture,  The Three Servicemen by Frederick Hart was later added adjacent to the site). Lin’s design slices into the earth, creating two black granite arms, one points to the Washington Monument, the other to the Lincoln Memorial. In this way, Lin has situated her work in conversation with other monuments and political leaders memorialized on the Washington Mall.

We can also consider Lin’s work as an example of ethical function , or the ability of architecture to express the ethos of the society that produces it. This idea, best explored by philosopher Karsten Harries, asks what architecture’s responsibility is to its community.

• What are the different types of  function discussed in this section?
• Can you name and describe the 3 parts of the  Vitruvian Triad ?
• In addition to Maya Lin’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial, what other structures can you think of, from this section or elsewhere, that demonstrate  ethical function ?

Learning Objectives

By the end of this chapter, learners should be able to:

• Define the different types of function and apply them to architectural examples.
• Evaluate structures in their own community based on the Vitruvian Triad.
• Compare and contrast the different architectural structures presented here based on their functional and formal qualities.
• Evaluate the importance of the built environment and its impact on the surrounding landscape and people.

Introduction to Architecture Copyright © by Kelsey Ferreira is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

ARCH 1121 An Introduction to Architecture…Spring 2016 Mishara Toggle navigation

• Assignment #1 What is Architecture?

Brittney McKenzie

Assignment #1

What is architecture?

The dictionary definition of architecture is “the art or practice of designing and constructing buildings.” However, it is more than that. It is the symbolic representation of life. Every moment you are surrounded by architecture which shapes humans behavior and effects our psychological mood. Though architecture is known as like the top hardest major in college, it affects a human’s activity. Architecture is like a form of communication that is nonverbal of course. But the question still remains; what is architecture really?

It is the way of life. This can determine how you interact with people every day to your mood. Unless we wake up in the wilderness it affects how we adapt to the environment. “The color of the walls can determine our mood” (Roth pg4). A building really does change the way we feel; if we live in a ‘fancy looking’ building we would feel fancy and so on. We must make sure each building follows codes which help protect people from anything including natural disasters. However, we as architects need to remember that we must design for the future not just for the present. Our buildings have to cooperate with nature as well as enhance nature. We have to make sure we use the correct materials and have the building face a certain way so that a specific amount of sunlight. This form of artistic expression can make someone’s dream come true. Architecture is the way of life and has a serious impact on people everywhere.

I have always had a passion for design. For a few years I have been doing interior decorating for special events at my church such as weddings and birthday parties. Architecture came to my mind after watching 2 movies, Click and The Avengers . In the movie Click , Adam Sandler was an actual architect and the technology he was using and what he was actually doing caught my attention. It was the same with The Avengers . However, my initial plan was to major in Interior Design, but I had to switch that plan since I am attending here at City Tech. Do I have the skills to be an architect? I am new to everything so I have nothing. Learning how to hand draft as well as using the computer programs can be difficult but I find this major unique and very creative, which is what I am. I love creativity and architecture can have someone’s creativity come to life which is amazing. I want to be an architect to well first be able to create peoples dream homes. I also want to build an amazing homeless shelter to get more homeless people off the street. I want to be an architect to make a difference.

Architecture: the way of life, the shaping of the environment, the design of space (Wiley pgs. 2-10). This career makes a difference in people’s lives because it affects the way people behave and think. The creations of these buildings need to benefit people and the environment today and forever. Architects need to adapt to the environment they are working and going to build at and need to learn to build that bond with their client.

• Visit Course Site
• Course Profile
• Course Site
• Announcements
• File Library
• Membership 15

Member Portfolios

• ait-ouaret’s ePortfolio
• Arismey Martinez’s ePortfolio
• Brandon Havens’s ePortfolio
• Brittney’s ePortfolio
• fede’s ePortfolio
• Jason A. Ansah’s ePortfolio
• Jcguzman’s ePortfolio
• Juan Magana’s ePortfolio
• Nydia’s ePortfolio
• RadeeshaStroy’s ePortfolio

Upcoming Events

• No upcoming events found.

Find Library Materials

Library information.

Ursula C. Schwerin Library New York City College of Technology, C.U.N.Y 300 Jay Street, Library Building - 4th Floor

The OpenLab at City Tech: A place to learn, work, and share

The OpenLab is an open-source, digital platform designed to support teaching and learning at City Tech (New York City College of Technology), and to promote student and faculty engagement in the intellectual and social life of the college community.

New York City College of Technology | City University of New York

Accessibility

Our goal is to make the OpenLab accessible for all users.

Learn more about accessibility on the OpenLab

Creative Commons

• - Attribution
• - NonCommercial
• - ShareAlike

© New York City College of Technology | City University of New York

• Toggle navigation

Architecture/Introduction

Architecture is defined as the art and science of designing buildings and structures. A wider definition would include within this scope the design of any built environment, structure or object, from town planning, urban design, and landscape architecture to furniture and objects. It could also be defined as the manipulation of shapes, forms, space and light to change our environment. A very famous definition of architecture is the one made by French architect Le Corbuiser : "Architecture is the masterly, correct, and magnificent play of forms under the light." ( Vers une architecture , 1923) In fact, defining architecture is not easy, and one would find as many definitions as there are books about architecture . Probably, each architect has his/her own, preferred definition.

Doing architecture requires strong technical knowledge in the fields of engineering, logistics, geometry, building techniques, functional design and ergonomics. It also requires a certain sensibility to arts and aesthetics. Finally, it also requires a preoccupation for human questions and society's problems. Architecture is a very broad and humanistic field that is at the same time technical, artistic and social. Traditionally, architecture courses are always found at the crossing of those domains. The profession of architect demands a certain ability to synthesize information coming from very different areas, and architects often assume the position of leader, mediator or centralizer in groups made of very different specialists.

Today, however, the broad scope of construction, the demand for a wide array of different structures and the general tendency to specialization, very present in the construction field, have resulted in architecture being often divided in several different specializations.

The aim of this course is to give students a firm basis on the many elements that contribute to architectural design as well as an idea as to what section of the field they may be best suited to.

This introductory module is part of the proposed curriculum for the bold experiment to teach Architecture online, which is unique, and unprecedented. Historically, it is a fact that some of the best architects in the world have been self learners, this School of Architecture proposes a practical guide of the most important steps that have made us Architects . Becoming an architect is a long journey consisting of education, internship, and examinations; and requires the practitioner to be dedicated, creative, detail-oriented, and possess a firm resolve to complete all which you have begun. You will enjoy this experimental process and the amazing experience of becoming an architect.

• 1 Architecture
• 2 The Art and Science of Architecture
• 3 Objective of This Course
• 4 Methodology

Architecture [ edit | edit source ]

Architecture , the art and science of designing and erecting buildings , is a vast subject -- every culture since the dawn of time has had its own distinct style of making shelters for people to live in, work in, and store things in. These shelters have since evolved to become the house that we know today.

Architects provide care in the shaping of our built environment . A wider definition would include within its scope the design of the total built environment, from the macrolevel of town planning, urban design , and landscape architecture to the microlevel of furniture.

The earliest Architects were definitely not specialists, but someone who erects basic dwellings using simple tools and materials found adjacent to the site. Today, architects are licensed by a jurisdiction to provide design services to the public through the practice of architecture and there are many Architecture COMPANIES.

The Art and Science of Architecture [ edit | edit source ]

The soul of architecture is to design a structure that will be suited for humans to live in, work in, play in, etc. It is also to give comfort to its users -- to make them feel comfortable, make them feel uplifted, make them feel that someone cared about their well-being enough to design something that they would enjoy. A good Architect does more than just design buildings -- he or she understands how people's surroundings make them feel, and creates an environment that will meet their needs and desires

Objective of This Course [ edit | edit source ]

We attempt to design the course in such a manner to make the learning of architecture available and affordable to everyone. A conscious effort is made to ensure the reading materials will be available online as against the need to purchase costly textbooks, reference books and periodicals. As such, it is suggested that you try to go through the reading list at the end of each module or section.

Methodology [ edit | edit source ]

You are encouraged to bookmark your local architecture institute websites to keep abreast with the current development of the profession in your home country. We also encourage you to bookmark these links to Royal Institute of British Architects and American Institute of Architects .

See also [ edit | edit source ]

• School:Architecture

Articles about Architecture at Wikipedia

• Architecture
• Introductions

Navigation menu

The Architecture Student’s Guide to Studio

Throughout your years in architecture school, one thing is always true — everything revolves around studio. It’s your living quarters for five years, where you’ll succeed and fail with a small group of comrades crazy enough to choose a career path in architecture. Studio is a kind of ecosystem we learn to obsess over. Every other class kind of becomes an afterthought. Your time in school is dominated by this phenomenon, and it comes with many cultural and social nuances, things that have been passed down year after year. In this article, we’ll look at some aspects that you, as an architecture student, experience every day, whether you’re aware of it or not. We’ll also explore some of the bizarre characteristics of studio culture and how it influences your time as a student.

Studio mates and the black hole of conversation

I think one of the most memorable things about my studio experience was all of the procrastinatory conversations I had with my studio mates. It was in these moments that my thinking truly deepened. Those back and forth debates, like whether Le Corbusier was a prophet sent from above or just some overrated plebeian, shaped so much of our convictions as young students. Or even those chats about whose diagrams looked the most Bjarke Ingels Group-ish — after all, we all thought we were as brilliant as he was (we weren’t).

It was in these conversations that we formulated our ideals about design. In an interview on The Tim Ferriss Show , Malcolm Gladwell talks about how a good college isn’t one with the best name or even the best reputation, but rather a place where one would find themselves up late talking to their colleagues about interesting things. Gladwell believes that it’s in the late night deep dialogues that we learn our most profound lessons. I agree with him.

a good college isn’t one with the best name or even the best reputation, but rather a place where one would find themselves up late talking to their colleagues about interesting things

But what about our actual school work? We do have a duty to ourselves to do well and the one thing that I remember more than anything was that most of these discussions (sometimes three hours long) always took place during times when I should have been doing my school work. It wasn’t uncommon for me to get a text from my wife at around 9 pm asking if I’d be home soon, after which I’d have to explain how I’d be a bit longer than expected because I hadn’t actually gotten to my work yet (or I was busy playing my second or third chess match).

The conversations you have with your peers will be some of the most memorable moments of your time in school, and you should have as many of them as you can. But, hence the title of this section, try not to fall into the black hole and get sucked away from your larger task — earning your degree.

The myth of the all-nighter

“Being busy is a form of laziness — lazy thinking and indiscriminate action.”

Tim Ferriss, The Four-Hour Workweek

The all-nighter is a phenomenon that has become inseparable from most discussions about design school. The reader will probably remember visiting architecture schools as a high school or transfer student where you were warned of the inevitability of the late nights that would be endured once you entered your first year of college. Even when you start your first studio your professor tells you that you will probably have to be in late to complete your first couple of assignments, in fact, you are expected to be in studio, because it is part of the “culture” and you need to be “immersed” in the program.

But if we step back and think about it, would we really be spending ninety plus hours a week working on our design projects if we weren’t continuously told that it is what was necessary to have “good work?” Probably not. Almost certainly not. An all-nighter is the result of poor planning and a lack of time management. It is a byproduct of getting sucked into the black hole of conversations, of overthinking the details, and of buying into the mythologized narrative of the inescapability of late nights in architecture.

I can already hear the objections: but Sean; there’s just so much work, I HAVE to work on this floor plan for 60 hours before it’s right, there’s no other way . If you say so. But what if I asked you to draw that floor plan in half the time, make it extraordinarily awesome, like literally breathtakingly beautiful, AND still have extra time to rehearse your presentation. That if you could do this, I would give you one million dollars. Could you figure out a way to make it happen? Throw away the old narrative of wasting time and use your creative powers to craft a schedule for yourself — you got this.

Studio = laboratory

One instance where long hours does work well is when you’ve decided you want to experiment or explore some new ideas. Architecture school is the place to let loose and try things out. Sometimes that might mean you sacrifice finishing a deliverable for one of your assignments. I remember a guy who would spend hours on Grasshopper and other programs the rest of us didn’t understand. He was at his desk every night with all of those stringy things covering his screen (yes, I realize he was building scripts, but “stringy things” sounds better). In all honesty, it seemed like the guy was never doing his actual school work. But, when it came time for presentations, he would have some masterpiece pinned to the wall, and somehow everyone would overlook the fact that he was missing a lot of the work the rest of us had. Needless to say, he has now proven himself a master.

If you’re going to spend the extra time in studio, spend it like this guy, learning, exploring, experimenting, growing. All-nighters aren’t a bad thing, wasting time is. Remember that you are paying a lot of money to be where you are, take advantage of the resources at your disposal, and have fun. When you start working full time, you won’t have the freedom you have in school. I still regret not exploring some of the extra resources my school had to offer. If you’re curious about, say, CNC milling, go check it out. Don’t worry if you’re not “the CNC guy/gal,” just set up the appointment and go learn. Be curious and allow yourself to discover new things.

No one cares about your grades

I have yet to meet a hiring manager who cares about what grade a prospective employee got in studio. Unless you’re trying to go to Grad school, no one cares about your grades. Architecture is a talent-based profession, almost like music. If Jimi Hendrix had a 2.0 grade point average, it would not influence his candidacy to fill a vacant guitar spot —the guy could play. It’s the same for you, your portfolio and your personality will be the main drivers in your entry-level job hunt, not your grades. So don’t stress if you get a B instead of an A in studio. In the end, it doesn’t matter. This is a good thing. Take away some of the pressure and follow your convictions a bit more instead of trying to please your professor.

Your professors actually know what they’re talking about

But, even though we aren’t in school to please our professors, we are there to learn from them. Naturally, the further one progresses as a design student; the more one develops stronger opinions. Almost across the board, every argument or disagreement I’ve observed between a student and a professor has been from those in upper-level studios. Once we reach third year or so we start to formulate stronger opinions about design and we begin to think we know better than our professors.

These arguments are usually accompanied by a side conversation with another student about how much the instructor “just doesn’t get it.” It wouldn’t be the first time generations butted heads. Look: you’ll have plenty of time to argue with people about design, trust me. When you’re in school really try to take in what your instructors are trying to impart to you. I’m not saying you shouldn’t have healthy disagreements, but if you receive feedback that you don’t like you should do what Frank Gehry does and “try it on for size.”

We’re all in this together

I can’t read the title of this section without thinking about the closing scene to Disney Channel’s High School Musical , but it’ll have to suffice. In the grand scheme of things, understand that you and your peers are trying to reach a common goal. It is possible to burn bridges with classmates. If you can, try to be on good terms with everyone. I talked about the importance of relationships in a past article, so to expand in terms of studio, look at the experience as one of collective ambition. See your studio mates as allies and seek to help as many people as you can while also allowing yourself to learn from them as well. I’ve learned my most effective software skills from my classmates.

As you move through this stage in your career, it can get tough. Studio is expensive, taxing, and rigorous, but in the end, you come out a transformed person. Enjoy the time and make the most of it. The end of this chapter will be here before you know it. Now is the time to grind.

Similar articles on Archinect that may interest you...

About the Author

Sean Joyner

Sean Joyner is a writer and essayist based in Los Angeles. His work explores themes spanning architecture, culture, and everyday life. Sean's essays and articles have been featured in The Architect's Newspaper, ARCHITECT Magazine, Dwell Magazine, and Archinect. He also works as an  ...

1 Featured Comment

"Your professors actually know what they’re talking about." Me, Brimming Optimism Pre-Masters :   I concur. Such swell people. Me Post-Masters, World Wary :   No. N to the O. Some professors are strictly on the payroll because they are best-friends with _________________ (Insert-prominent-title-here) regardless of their capacity to teach or be decent human beings.

Regardless, I enjoyed the article and the first photo of a University of Florida studio. Just a whim, but I wonder what the other side of the coin is? "The Architecture Professor's Guide to Studio?"

All 3 Comments

A few things. 

1. All-nighters. 

While not entirely necessary as you pointed out, students don't know the first thing about time management or what's important yet, so it's up to a professor to guide the student to effectively use their time on aspects of the project that best convey the concept. What do most professors do? Tell you to spend all your time on countless permutations and iterations only to give you a critique where they throw out buzzwords and quote Jeff Kipnis. If we thought of studio much more in the way that an office works—that somehow there is an economy to our time, architectural education might be more effective for preparing students for the profession. 

This brings me to my second point...

2. most professors are making this shit up as they go along

It's laughable to say that most Professors know what they're talking about. They don't. Most universities are competing for student enrollment based on the novelty of the work that their students put out which is why there is a constant merry-go-round of newly graduated greenhorn adjunct faculty members bouncing from school to school touting the same mumbo-jumbo that they just "learned" in graduate school. The old guard certainly have chops that are respectable, but too often do they fall subject to this game of aesthetic trickery and style-over-substance. Professors wax poetic about the "discipline" of architecture yet most of the time they completely fail to educate students on fundamental concepts that then take years to learn on the job. Why? We're creating a knowledge gap that can't be filled with software or project management software, and we're quickly becoming afterthoughts to generating new ideas for cities—that's now in the territory of Google, Amazon, and Uber. 

Teaching design for design sake—not understanding place, tradition, program, material, and the organizational dynamics behind the architectural profession—is ultimately what's polluted architectural education. 

Thanks for the comment. On your first point, I don't think you're giving enough credit to young adults in college. There are countless students who are able to manage their time without their professors holding their hands or telling them how to do so. The issue is with the current culture (hence my point in its presence being a myth) of the field but it seems we both agree on this point. 

On your second point. This is ultimately an overgeneralization. By definition a professor (or adjunct instructor) is in a position to teach a student who does not anything about architecture. Even if they are recent grads it would not take away from the value they could provide to students in earlier years in their education process. This is the foundation of mentorship within schools amongst students. For a student to adopt an attitude of open-mindedness to the feedback of their professor (or peers even) can only reap positive results in the end.

This is a complicated issue, and I think we're getting somewhere, but I want to push back a little on what you're saying. I can't think of a single star student from my experience that didn't pull all-nighters simply because that's what they feel like is expected of them to deliver a project at such a high level. Who decides what's important, and who sets the standard? Primarily the academic institution, as well as the students' own manic will to create. Despite what I said earlier, it really has little to do with time management. The problem is, and I think we both agree, is the inherent value system and motivation behind what we're teaching students in the first place. We're teaching them to be architects, which is in fact quite a practical and straightforward profession despite how much we want to conceptualize it to death. 

We're in the service industry to monetize our knowledge and expertise about how to build a better building than the construction industry can do on it's own. We spend so much time in our own worlds fetishizing massing studies, parametric plugins, 3D printing, edge misregistration, multiple ontologies, cartoon-plans, diagrams, and etc. that I think we get a little lost in the sauce. Sure, these are tools of the trade and how we innovate our profession, but at a certain point, are we pigeonholing ourselves too much, ultimately undermining our value in society? To your point point about studio being a laboratory, academia functions as a kind of R&D operation for architectural hype machine, but often times true innovation occurs when dealing with the reality of implementing these systems out in the built environment. 

This is what I'm trying to get at: There's this false sense of security in school that just because you're being taught that something is important, doesn't mean that it's actually important. A majority of my colleagues 5-10 years out of school (across the country) genuinely feel like school didn't prepare them for the profession, yet somehow this was a punchline all throughout my education and countless other's. You might call this a generalization, but I don't think it's any secret that academia and the profession have a bit of a two-faced relationship. This starts with curriculum and studio culture. Until we take the training wheels off architectural education and treat it much more like a real working office, apprenticeship, or trade, we're going to constantly produce endless amounts of "designers" and little to no individuals that are actually qualified to be architects. 

You're right. The issue is a multi-dimensional one. Your response here is making more sense though. I know plenty of students from my time in school who produced extraordinary work and did not do all-nighters. Nevertheless, it is still part of the inherent culture. 

School not preparing students for the profession is a whole other issue that wasn't the focus of this article, but again, you're quite accurate, thus the importance of internships while in school, at least in my view. Personally, I think the apprenticeship model would do well in our field (and produce more robust young professionals).

haha! great comment! yes, I remember being a 4th-year student and asking one of my professors why he chose to teach. Being the naive young person I was, I thought he would give me an answer of how we wanted "to give back" and "make a difference". But his (honest) answer was merely that it paid the bills and allowed him to explore his interests. But, I actually think that is okay, he still made a difference in my thinking. And there also were those teachers who had a genuine love for what they did. 

"The Architecture Professor's Guide to Studio" is a brilliant idea! And to contradict myself, in regards to the section titled "Your professors actually know what they're talking about," I am reminded of the Socratic decree..."The only thing that I know is that I know nothing."

Block this user

Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?

This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.

• Back to Features List... Back to Top  ↑
• » Architectural Issues
• » Culture
• » Architects
• » Design
• » Academia
• ↓ More
• » Buildings
• » Business
• » Employment
• » Technology
• » Film/Video/Photography
• » Urban Planning
• » Sustainability
• » Events
• » Landscape
• » Web
• » Competition
• » Furniture
• » View All
• × Search in:
• All of Archinect

Looking for Instant Architecture Assignment Help Service?

Our architecture assignment writers are available 24/7 to ensure that your assignment is completed on time and according to the instructions. Email us the details of your assignment at [email protected]. Hire us for professionalism, reliability, and affordability. We will ensure that you score a top grade in your assignment.

Instant Architecture Assignment Help From Top Rated Experts

Submit Your Architecture Assignment and Get a Quote for Assistance in Less than 10 Minutes

Reliable Architecture Assignment Helpers for College and University Students

We have a top team of assignment helpers who ensure that college and university students score the best grades. Our services cover undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels of education. Our experts do every assignment from scratch, ensuring that clients get 100% plagiarism-free solutions. We cover all the topics in architecture. Some of the topics we cover are:

Guaranteed Top Grade in Your Architecture Assignment or a Full Refund

Our experts are very experienced in architecture, and that is why we guarantee our clients top grades. We have a money-back guarantee which you can activate should we fail to deliver our promise. With us, you are guaranteed an A grade. Below are a few assignments completed by our experts and the grades scored.

What is the Process of Hiring You for Help with the Architecture Assignment?

The first step is filling out the order form on our website. The order form includes details such as your name, delivery date, number of questions to be answered, and the word count of your assignment. If you have lecture notes, ensure that you upload them there. We will go through your requirements and send you a quotation.

The quotation contains the amount to be paid and the methods to use to pay for the service. Once we receive your payment, we will notify you and assign an expert to work on your assignment. If you have a preferred expert, please notify us so that we can assign them to work on your assignment.

Your assignment will be done from scratch within the given timelines. In most cases, our experts ensure that the assignment is delivered at least 6 hours before the deadline so that the client can have enough time to go through the work. This also allows us to revise the work should the client find any part unsatisfactory.

Benefits of Hiring Our Architecture Assignment Writers

Our architecture assignment writers offer the best support to students looking to score good grades on the assignments. Some of the reasons for hiring our experts include:

We do every assignment from scratch, ensuring that our clients enjoy original and plagiarism-free solutions to avoid penalties by their professors.

We are available for a revision if you are unsatisfied with any part of the solution you get from us. We do not charge our clients for revisions or rewrites.

Our customer care team is available 24/7 to take your orders, answer your questions and solve any problems you may have.

Take advantage of our free alterations service at any time of the day or night

All the information submitted to us is safe and not shared. Therefore, when you share your details with us, be sure that there is a privacy guarantee.

Our prices are affordable and fair to all students. We only charge students once, and our service does not have hidden charges.

Our architecture assignment helpers provide high-quality and accurate solutions, guaranteeing all clients top grades.

Our experts are qualified to use any tool which the student requires.

Explore Our Resourceful Blogs to Ace Your Architecture Course

Our experts have written and posted informative blogs based on helpful topics to give our students free access to various success tips. College and university students can benefit from these blogs, which explain various architecture concepts, hint to students on how to study successfully, and more. Choose a blog from the list, enjoy reading it, and reap the benefits.

The value of assignments in your academic career cannot be overstated if you are an architecture student. Assignments are an essential component of the curriculum and are very important in determining your grades. When it comes to architectural assignments, you must deal with intricate ideas, diffic... Read More

As a professional or student of architecture, you are aware of the significance of producing excellent AutoCAD assignments. Your work must be precise, understandable, and error-free whether you're designing a building, drawing up floor plans, or drafting construction documents. Even the most skilled... Read More

Are you struggling with your Architecture assignments and feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the coursework? Do you wish you had an expert who could guide you through the challenging concepts and help you achieve academic success? Look no further than our Architecture assignment help experts! ... Read More

When looking for trustworthy assistance, students must make sure they select a reputable architecture assignment help service. With so many choices, it's critical to assess legitimacy and dependability. To enable students to make wise decisions, we'll examine important factors to ... Read More

Learn about the many benefits of hiring experts to do your architecture assignments. Experts have in-depth knowledge, guarantee prompt completion, provide tailored solutions, improve your learning experience, deliver flawless and well-structured assignments, ensure confidentiality and privacy,... Read More

Technical expertise, inventiveness, and attention to detail are all necessary to master the art of solving your architecture assignment. Explore these crucial pointers to master your architectural tasks, produce outstanding work, and ensure success. 5 Crucial Pointers for Successfully Solving Your ... Read More

It's important to be knowledgeable about the typical errors that can impede your progress when it comes to completing your architectural assignment. You may increase the caliber of your work, save time, and get better grades by avoiding these mistakes. In this blog post, we'll examine the most commo... Read More

Architecture is a dynamic and ever-evolving field that combines creative thinking, technical know-how, and an awareness of how society functions to meet its requirements. As a student of architecture, you have the unique opportunity to investigate a wide range of subjects that will play a role... Read More

Architecture is more than just the physical structures we see and inhabit; it encompasses a complex interplay of ideas, processes, and durations that transcend the material world. The concept of "immaterial limits" in architecture has gained prominence in recent years, emphasizing the intangibl... Read More

Embarking on a journey to become an architect is an exciting and intellectually rewarding endeavor. The fusion of creativity and technical expertise in designing spaces that shape our built environment is a compelling prospect for many aspiring architects. However, the path to becoming an arc... Read More

Parametric design in architecture is a revolutionary approach that has transformed the way architects and designers conceptualize, develop, and execute their projects. This innovative design methodology relies on the use of computational tools and algorithms to create complex, dynamic, and high... Read More

The grandeur of historical buildings stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and cultural significance of bygone eras. As portals to the past, these structures weave narratives of craftsmanship, societal values, and design philosophies unique to their times. In the pursuit of safeg... Read More

In the intricate tapestry of the architectural world, technology and innovation have become the dynamic threads weaving together the past, present, and future of building design. The evolution of architectural technology is akin to a fascinating journey through time, transitioning from manual... Read More

The art and science of interior architecture and design are transformative forces that shape the very fabric of our living spaces. In the contemporary era, where the significance of the built environment is more pronounced than ever, students embarking on their academic journey in this field ... Read More

In the dynamic world of architecture, where innovation and technological advancement are at the forefront, Building Information Modeling (BIM) stands as a paramount digital revolution. BIM, which stands for Building Information Modeling, is a multifaceted and integrated approach that has fund... Read More

The world of architecture stands as a testament to the ingenuity, creativity, and cultural richness of humanity. Within this realm, iconic architectural masterpieces emerge not only as physical structures but as profound reflections of the societies that birthed them. For university students ... Read More

Architectural criticism stands at the crossroads of creativity, functionality, and cultural resonance, offering students a gateway to unravel the complexities woven into the fabric of the built environment. In the realm of college assignments, the exploration of architectural criticism transc... Read More

In the dynamic realm of architecture, the interplay between cultural influences and design serves as a captivating exploration into the diverse tapestry of human expression. As students venture into the world of assignments within the architectural sphere, the significance of understanding an... Read More

In the boundless realm of architecture, where creativity converges with intellectual inquiry, the foundations of this discipline extend far beyond the mere construction of physical structures. Embedded within the architectural landscape is a profound tapestry of theories, ideologies, and hist... Read More

In the mosaic of urban landscapes, where the ever-expanding footprint of cities mirrors the intricate complexities of contemporary society, the discipline of architecture has assumed a role far beyond the mere creation of physical structures. Architectural urbanism emerges as a transformative l... Read More

Architecture, often hailed as the silent narrator of human history, transcends mere structures; it is a reflection of societies, cultures, and the relentless march of innovation through time. To comprehend the nuanced tapestry of architectural history is to embark on a captivating journey throu... Read More

Architectural design stands at the crossroads of art and science, challenging aspiring architects to blend creativity with technical precision. For students venturing into the world of architectural assignments, the journey is akin to navigating a labyrinth of principles and strategies. In this... Read More

Get 24/7 Assistance From 1,100+ Excellently Reviewed Experts

We have qualified architecture experts from Australia, Canada, Ireland, the United States, and the UK, to mention a few. Our writers enjoy an average rating of 4.8 stars, with several positive client reviews. Each of them is specialized across a unique combination of architectural concepts. You’ll surely find a match for your assignment when you hire us.

Average rating on 899 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1145 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1072 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1156 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1267 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1062 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1172 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 949 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1259 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 955 reviews 4.8/5

Average rating on 871 reviews 4.8/5

Average rating on 1043 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 961 reviews 4.8/5

Average rating on 1165 reviews 4.8/5

Average rating on 1159 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1257 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1196 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1047 reviews 4.8/5

Average rating on 1055 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 954 reviews 4.9/5

Average rating on 1364 reviews 4.9/5

Over 900 Genuine Success Stories from Students Worldwide

Still in two minds? Clear your doubts with genuine reviews from our global clientele base. 98% of engineering students who get their architecture assignments solved by us are happy with their results. That’s why we enjoy an average client rating of 4.8 stars for the good work we do. Be part of the happy team by hiring us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Architecture Assignment Help Writing Service

Our FAQs answer all questions troubling your mind whenever you think about our service. From why you should hire us and how to do it, we give the most concise responses to save you time. Nevertheless, our contact avenues are ever open for more clarification. You can ask us more questions directly without hesitating.

Attached Files

Browse Course Material

Course info.

• Prof. John Ochsendorf

Departments

• Architecture

As Taught In

• Structural Engineering
• Architectural Engineering

Learning Resource Types

Basic structural design, assignments.

Selected homework assignments are included below.

Students worked on the following projects in the lab sessions.

You are leaving MIT OpenCourseWare

Free Portfolio Page Templates

Begin and edit your portfolio with confidence, and focus on what matters …its content.

Architecture Work Samples – Everything you need to know

• Updated: December 31, 2023

When someone views your portfolio for the first time, it’s highly likely that they will quickly scan through it to get a sense of its overall design and content, before taking a detailed look. As the author, it’s therefore your responsibility to engage the reader’s attention from the very beginning and maintain it throughout each project.

One way to do this is to create a concise portfolio with a clear and compelling narrative – Commonly known as an architecture work sample, but also often known as a sample portfolio, short portfolio, or a mini portfolio.

As portfolio enthusiasts, and from personal experience of interviewing candidates for our own firms, as explained here some of the most effective portfolios are those that are able to convey key design ideas and concepts with a minimal number of drawings and images.

By using self-explanatory drawings and clear visual communication, you can keep the reader’s focus on your overarching narrative and avoid distracting them with unnecessary details.

The Architecture Portfolio Kit

Your portfolio is the most powerful tool you have. Learn how to shape and use it to its full advantage with this in-depth guide.

Stand out from the competition, and create an interview ready portfolio.

Keep in mind that creating a work sample can be just as time-consuming as creating a longer one, if not more so. It requires strong visual communication skills and an understanding of how to tell a story through drawings and images.

For those planning to create an architecture work sample, here we aim to provide a breakdown of what to consider and how to do it.

…starting with:

What is an architecture work sample, and why should you make one?

An architecture work sample is a summary of work that demonstrates the skills and abilities of an applicant looking for either a employment position or enrollment in a chosen architecture school . It can comprise of a physical model , drawings , digital renderings , and/or photographs.

It should showcase the architect’s understanding of design principles , ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces , and proficiency in the technical aspects of design and construction .

An architecture work sample may be used as part of a job application or as a way for an architect to promote their work to potential clients.

When applying for a job at an architecture firm , it’s important to make your portfolio as concise and effective as possible. This is because recruiters often have limited time to review each application, and a shorter portfolio allows them to focus more on the content.

A good rule of thumb is to aim for a portfolio that is no more than 10 pages long, but you can adjust this based on your own preferences and the amount of content you have to include.

Remember, an architecture work sample should not be a collection of thumbnails or a cluttered collage of drawings. Instead, it should contain just the right amount of drawings to effectively showcase your projects and demonstrate your visual communication skills.

A well-crafted, sample of work can be a powerful tool for making a strong impression on recruiters and standing out in the hiring process.

Architecture work samples examples

As touched on above, some examples of work that you might include in a work sample are:

• Design projects : This could include floor plans, elevations, renderings, or other visualizations of your design concepts.
• Technical drawings : This could include site plans, sections, details, or other technical drawings that demonstrate your drafting skills.
• Sketches : If you have strong hand-sketching skills, consider including some of your sketches to showcase your ability to communicate ideas visually.
• Models : Physical models or 3D digital models can be effective ways to show the form and spatial relationships of your designs.
• Photography : If you have taken photographs of your designs or built projects, these can be a great way to show the finished product and demonstrate your ability to bring a project to fruition.
• Diagrams : Diagrams can be helpful in explaining the concept or process behind a design.
• Written work : Depending on the focus of your portfolio, you may also want to include written work such as research papers or design briefs to demonstrate your analytical and writing skills.

Remember to choose work that demonstrate your skills and accomplishments, and that are relevant to the job or program you are applying for.

What does the interviewer want to see?

To create an effective work sample and impress potential employers, focus on the following three aspects:

• Attention to detail : Follow any instructions or guidelines provided, such as file size limits, to show that you are detail-oriented and capable of following directions.
• Proficiency in tools and software : Use your work samples to demonstrate your skills and expertise in specific tools and software, rather than just listing them on your resume.
• Coherent storytelling : Use your work sample to present a clear and coherent message or story, showcasing your best work and using limited space effectively.

Architecture work sample vs portfolio

As identified, an architecture work sample is a specific, heavily curated, and limited amount of work that is meant to showcase your skills and abilities in a limited amount of time.

A portfolio, on the other hand, can be thought of as a collection of work samples that demonstrate your overall skills and experience as a designer and architect. It typically includes a much larger amount and variety of work, such as design projects, technical drawings, sketches, and other relevant materials, and is meant to give a comprehensive overview of your abilities and accomplishments.

In other words, a work sample is a comprehensive summary of work, while a portfolio is a collection of multiple work samples. Both are important for showcasing your skills and experience, but the portfolio is meant to provide a more holistic view of your abilities.

How do you create the perfect architecture work sample?

Before you start creating your sample of work, consider the types of companies or organizations you will be applying to and select projects that are most relevant to them. Take some time to reflect on your work and identify common themes or design priorities, such as sustainability or material exploration.

Use these to create a narrative for your sample that showcases your personal design philosophy and keeps the reader engaged. A strong narrative is an important aspect of any portfolio, as it helps to keep the reader interested and provides insight into your design approach.

2. Produce a framework

To create your work sample, you will need to organize and present your projects in a clear and effective way. Depending on the size and complexity of your projects, you may have one page for smaller projects and up to three pages for larger ones.

For example, if you have eight pages to showcase five projects, you could use a layout such as 1+1+1+1+4 or 1+1+1+2+3.

It may seem challenging at first, but as you work through your portfolio, you will see that every element – from images to text – plays a important role in showcasing your skills and accomplishments.

3. Organize content

If you already have a comprehensive portfolio with optimized images and drawings, you can consider using some of these elements in your sample work portfolio, as long as you maintain a consistent narrative.

If you don’t have a portfolio yet, you will need to spend some time determining the best way to represent each project. This may involve exploring different mediums and methods of representation, such as using an axonometric drawing for some projects and a sectional perspective for others. Templates can speed this process up greatly.

You may also want to consider presenting design development as a series of smaller images. As you work on your layout, you can add placeholders for each image to get a sense of how your the final composition will look.

4. Optimize text

To optimize the text, it’s important to let your drawings do most of the talking. The text should provide additional information and answer any questions that the reader may have about the project. Here are some tips for optimizing the text in your portfolio:

• Keep project titles brief and specific, so that readers have a clear idea of what each project is about.
• Keep project descriptions to a maximum of 3-4 lines, using a font size that is legible but not too large.
• Clearly and concisely describe how your design intervention addresses key issues in the project.
• Consider including information about the project location, design team, and floor area in a separate text box that is consistent for all projects.
• Maintain a consistent tone in your writing and be concise in your language.

By following these tips, you can create an effective and well-organized work sample that showcases your skills and accomplishments.

5. Other info

Your architecture work sample must include a cover that should be consistent with the overall narrative and visual language of your work.

You also have the option of including an “About Me” page at the beginning or end of your work sample, but be sure to include your name, a brief bio, contact information, and CV . You may also want to include a link to your comprehensive portfolio or website, where readers can view your work in more detail.

In your bio, focus on highlighting your personality rather than your work experience and accomplishments, which should be addressed in your CV. By following these guidelines, you can create a professional and effective work sample that showcases your skills and personality.

6. Fine-tune

To ensure that your work sample is well-organized and visually appealing, it can be helpful to print each page separately and lay them out next to each other. This allows you to get a better sense of the overall structure and make any necessary adjustments.

Pay attention to details such as layout, text size, white space, and image resolution to ensure that your portfolio is consistent and professional.

Once you’re happy with the final product, consider printing a booklet version of your work to take with you to professional events, interviews, and meetings. Remember, your portfolio is a reflection of your skills and personality as a design professional, so be sure to put in the effort to make it your best work.

• Use a limited number of images per page (3-5) to ensure that they are legible and prominent.
• Organize the pages with a clear hierarchy, including brief, organized descriptions and credit for any collaborators.
• Include your name and contact information, possibly using the same design as your “letterhead” on your resume.
• When posting on a school’s website, limit yourself to two sample pages and a resume, and make sure to credit any collaborators. Follow any file size restrictions and guidelines for solo vs. collaborative work.
• When networking with contacts, you may offer more sample pages, but be mindful of file size limits.
• To showcase your design process, include diagrams, photos of study models, pre-design iterations, and technical drawings.
• Personal artwork is appropriate to include on sample pages, but avoid using images from professional work.
• Carefully select the most excellent images that best demonstrate your skills and interests.
• To avoid text clutter, consider using a key for project titles and skills/media used.

What are some examples of architecture work samples?

There are several characteristics that can make up a successful work sample, some of which are presented in the three examples below, that present and provide:

• Quality : Work that is of high quality and demonstrates the authors skills and abilities in a clear and concise manner.
• Relevance : Work samples that are relevant to the job or program the author is applying to, and that showcase their strengths and interests.
• Clarity : They ensure that their work samples are well-organized and easy to understand. Through using clear and concise labels and annotations, including diagrams or other visual aids to help explain their work.
• Creativity : They showcase their creative thinking and design skills through their chose of work, by including projects that demonstrate their ability to come up with original solutions to design challenges.
• Attention to detail : The work presented is well-crafted and polished, with a high level of attention to detail. This includes elements like accurate drafting, proper use of dimensions and notation, and clean presentation.
• Context : They have provided context for their work by explaining the purpose or inspiration behind the design, and any constraints or challenges they faced during the design process. This can help to give your work sample more depth and meaning.

Both Behance and Isuue have plenty more examples of sample portfolios.

FAQ’s

How many pages should an interview portfolio be.

The number of pages in an interview portfolio will depend on the individual architect’s experience and the types of projects they have worked on. In general, it is important to include only the most relevant and high-quality projects in an interview portfolio, rather than trying to include every project the architect has worked on. This will help ensure that the portfolio is well-organized and presents the architect’s work in the best light.

Some architects may choose to include only their most recent or most notable projects in their interview portfolio, while others may include a wider range of projects in order to demonstrate a diverse range of skills and experience. The overall length of the portfolio will depend on the number and size of the projects included, as well as the format in which the portfolio is presented (e.g. online, physical, etc.).

It is generally recommended to keep an interview portfolio concise and to the point, as the interviewer will likely not have a lot of time to review it. Aim for a portfolio that is a few pages long, rather than a lengthy document that may be overwhelming or difficult to review in a short amount of time.

What is a Work SAMPLE portfolio?

As discussed above- A work sample portfolio is a collection of past projects that showcases an architect’s skills, experience, and style. It can include drawings, renderings, models, or photographs of completed projects, and is typically presented to potential clients or employers as a way to demonstrate the architect’s abilities.

It is important to choose high-quality projects that showcase a range of skills and styles, and to present them in a visually appealing and logical way. It is also helpful to include clear and concise descriptions of each project, as well as any relevant details about the project’s size, materials, or challenges faced during the design process.

Overall, a well-crafted work sample portfolio can be a powerful tool for architects to showcase their skills and experience, and to differentiate themselves from other candidates.

Free Site Analysis Checklist

Every design project begins with site analysis … start it with confidence for free!.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Latest Articles

19 Awesome Architecture Blogs To Follow

Keeping up to date with what’s occurring is an important part of our professional development…

Restaurant Design Concepts: Architecture guide

…this is far more than mere decoration or architectural indulgence.

Architectural Lighting Concepts – Illuminating spaces

Beyond its fundamental role in visibility, lighting shapes our experiences, influences our emotions, and defines the essence of architectural itself…

Understanding Forced Perspective in Architecture

By tricking the eye, architects have harnessed forced perspective to enhance, distort, or subtly guide the viewer’s experience of a space…

Free Architecture Detail Drawings: The best online construction resources

Accessing high-quality construction and architecture detail drawings can often come with a high cost…

How To Improve Your Architecture Detailing

Mastering the art of architectural detailing is no small feat. It requires a deep understanding of materials, construction methods, and design principles…

As seen on:

Unlock access to all our new and current products for life .

23 Of The Best Architecture Books

Architecture Site Analysis: An introduction

Form Finding in Architecture

Providing a general introduction and overview into the subject, and life as a student and professional.

Study aid for both students and young architects, offering tutorials, tips, guides and resources.

Information and resources addressing the professional architectural environment and industry.

• Concept Design Skills
• Portfolio Creation
• Meet The Team

Where can we send the Templates?

By entering your email address, you agree to receive emails from archisoup. We’ll respect your privacy, and you can unsubscribe anytime.

Where can we send the Checklist?

Sign up to our mailing list to receive a set of free portfolio cover templates.