Course

Module 1

Introduction to Graphics Studio and Work Culture

• Introduction to studio work culture: tools, workspace, and instruments.
• Use of pencils, drafting instruments, and media.
• Ergonomics of the drawing table, posture, and workflow.
• Exploration of different types of paper and media for architectural drawings.

Module 2

Fundamentals of Plane Geometry

• Basic principles of plane geometry.
• Drawing lines, angles, triangles, circles, and polygons.
• Geometric constructions and problem-solving techniques.
• Application of plane geometry to architectural forms.

Module 3

Orthographic Projections and Solid Geometry

• Orthographic projections: plans, elevations, and sections.
• Solid geometry: drawing cubes, cylinders, spheres, and complex solids.
• Principles of shadow casting and light in architectural geometry (Sciagraphy).
• Introduction to axonometric, isometric projections & perspective drawings.

Module 4

Freehand Drawing and Memory Sketching

• Techniques for freehand sketching in architecture.
• Exercises to develop hand-eye coordination and visual memory.
• Creative exploration of left-brain (analytical) vs. right-brain (creative) approaches.
• Memory drawing exercises to enhance observational skills.

Module 5

Drawing a Building – Understanding Thicknesses and Hollows

• Introduction to drawing architectural plans, sections, and elevations.
• Understanding wall thickness, hollow spaces, and voids.
• Drawing basic building forms and understanding spatial relationships.
• Representation of materials, textures, and finishes in architectural drawings.

Module 6

Objects – Taking Things Apart and Reassembly

• Exploration of architectural objects and elements.
• Deconstructing objects to understand their form and function.
• Reassembling objects in new ways to enhance creativity and spatial understanding.
• Hands-on exercises in modeling and representing objects.

Module 7

Building Skills Workshop – Materials and Media

• Introduction to different architectural materials: wood, metal, plastic, etc.
• Studio work culture: cutting, joining, shaping, and assembling materials.
• Exploration of media and techniques for installations and assemblies.
• Collaborative workshop activities to develop hands-on building skills.

Module 8

Module 8: Advanced Visual Representation and Design Language

• Introduction to the language of architectural design and technical drafting.
• Visual representation techniques for architectural presentations.
• Advanced skills in rendering and architectural visualization.
• Introduction to digital tools and software for architectural representation.

Course Coordinator: Prof Harimohan Pillai

• To introduce students to the fundamentals of architectural representation and graphics, including technical drafting and freehand drawing.
• To develop a clear understanding of geometric principles, orthographic projection, and solid geometry in architectural contexts.
• To cultivate visual representation skills, both manual and digital, for architectural expression and communication.
• To encourage creativity through hands-on workshops, exploring materials, media, and assembly techniques in architectural design.

• Students will demonstrate proficiency in technical drafting, freehand sketching, and the use of architectural instruments and media.
• Students will acquire skills in visual representation, applying plane and solid geometry to architectural forms and structures.
• Students will integrate left-brain (technical) and right-brain (creative) approaches in problem-solving and representation.
• Students will gain experience in understanding materials, installations, and assembly in a studio work environment.

References:

1. Architectural Graphics – Francis D.K. Ching
Covers fundamentals of architectural drafting, orthographic projections, and visual representation techniques.

2. Design Drawing – Francis D.K. Ching
Focuses on freehand drawing, sketching, and developing creativity through visual exercises.

3. Rendering in Pen and Ink – Arthur L. Guptill
Provides insights into rendering techniques for architectural drawings, emphasizing manual representation.

4. Geometry of Design: Studies in Proportion and Composition – Kimberly Elam
Explores geometric principles applied to design and composition in architecture.

5. Basic Perspective Drawing: A Visual Approach – John Montague
Offers a step-by-step guide to drawing perspectives and understanding spatial relationships.

6. Architectural Drawing: A Visual Compendium of Types and Methods – Rendow Yee
Comprehensive guide on drawing techniques, including orthographic and axonometric projections.

7. Freehand Drawing for Architects – Paolo Belardi
Encourages freehand drawing as a tool for creativity and architectural expression.

8. Digital Drawing for Designers: A Visual Guide to AutoCAD – Douglas R. Seidler
Introduces digital tools like AutoCAD for architectural drafting and representation.

9. Building Construction Illustrated – Francis D.K. Ching
Introduces building elements and their representation in architectural drawings.

10. The Art of City Sketching: A Field Manual – Michael C. Abrams
Offers techniques for sketching buildings, spaces, and cities, enhancing freehand and observational skills.