Architect sketchbooks

Frank O. Gehry’s initial sketch of the much hailed Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain

Architects are well known for their use of sketchbooks. They use them to help them in the design process, as well as to document their ideas and help keep track of their progress. The use of sketchbooks is essential to architects, and it is something that has been used for centuries. So let’s explore, why do architects keep sketchbooks and how they are beneficial to the design process.

The first reason why architects keep sketchbooks is for inspiration. Architects often use sketchbooks to draw inspiration from the work of other architects, or from the world around them. By documenting their ideas and observations, they can create something unique and original that reflects their personal style. This is especially useful when they are trying to come up with new solutions to design problems.

The second reason why architects keep sketchbooks is to document their progress. As an architect works on a project, they often make changes and improvements to their initial design. By keeping a sketchbook, they can track these changes and document the evolution of their ideas. This is essential for architects, as it allows them to refer back to their progress and make sure they are staying on track.

The third reason why architects keep sketchbooks is to help with communication. Sketchbooks allow architects to easily share their ideas with clients and other professionals. This helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that their ideas are understood. Additionally, sketchbooks can serve as a visual reference for the design process, which can be invaluable for those who are not familiar with the technical aspects of architecture.

Finally, sketchbooks can also be used for creative problem solving. As an architect works on a project, they may hit a roadblock or be unable to come up with a solution. By going back to their sketchbook, they can brainstorm new ideas and approaches, which can help them to find the perfect solution for the project.