Architecture for beginners

How buildings are designed, how to read architectural drawings, and how to respond to site and climate.

3 lessons · about 0.8 hours · free

Understanding architecture

1. 1. How buildings are designed

   Every building goes through the same broad stages, from understanding what the client needs to handing over the finished building. Learn the process and the people involved.

   • • Describe the stages of a building project
   • • Explain what happens at each design stage
   • • Know who is on a typical project team

   14 min

2. 2. Reading architectural drawings

   Architectural drawings are a set of related views of a building. Learn what each view shows, how to read scale and symbols, and how to picture the building in 3D from them.

   • • Explain what plans, sections and elevations show
   • • Read scale, dimensions and levels
   • • Recognise common symbols

   16 min

3. 3. Site, orientation and climate

   Good buildings respond to their site and climate. Learn site analysis and the passive design principles that make buildings comfortable with less energy.

   • • Carry out a basic site analysis
   • • Use sun path and orientation
   • • Apply shading and ventilation principles

   18 min