Architectural detailing is a crucial skill for architects and technologists. However it can be quite difficult for us to envision how our design ideas actually come together. Further to this, depicting complex material assemblies and connections through drawing can also be challenging.

Importance of Understanding Architectural Detailing | Vita

On the contrary, with parametric modeling and digital fabrication there are new opportunities for designing ever more complex and interesting building details, which require a new set of skills from designers. Shepherd, P. G., Hudson, R. and Hines, D. “Aviva Stadium: a parametric success.” International Journal of Architectural Computing, 9 (2), 2011: pp. 178. During my studies, one of the hardest things to find was good architectural details to use as precedent studies. I used to spend hours flipping through books in the library, trawling the internet, trying to find specific details. There never seemed to be one resource that covered all my needs. I guess it is safe to say that is still the case. The Detail Library shares construction details that can be adjusted and amended to suit specific projects, saving designers huge amounts of time. The library does not consist of individual components; rather, it features fully resolved details. With new details being added to the library every month, it is a great way to start your own construction detail library that can be edited and adjusted for your own projects.The detail is gaining a new status in contemporary practices, and becoming an important part of design. Although standard details are still used for most parts of a building, specially produced details can add value to a building and define its personality, for example creating surface effects. [1]

Understanding Architectural Details - 3rd Edition Understanding Architectural Details - 3rd Edition

We’ve rounded up a collection of pristine, minimalist detail drawings that showcase intricate architectural assemblies. From curtain walls and sun screens to windows and roofs, each of the details reveal how architects think across scales. These details are drawn from every kind of project, from residential housing to commercial and educational spaces. Collectively, they show some of the most clever moments within design and construction through the lens of drawing.The library features over 200 construction details (based on UK residential projects) and is added to every month. The details are in 2D AutoCAD format and 3D SketchUp format, with 2D Revit due to be launched very soon. The thought that goes into each of these decisions—hundreds or thousands of them, total— captures the essence of architectural detailing. It’s why professionally designed spaces often look seamless and elegant, while DIY spaces can feel just a little bit off with no clear explanation. In many cases, the key is aligning materials and geometry and understanding transitions and material properties. To do this correctly takes time, forethought, and many drawings to communicate how the assemblies will come together. Start to research relevant books, manufacturers information and guides to develop the structural and mechanical system Kolarevic, B. & Klinger, K. (eds.). Manufacturing Material Effects: Rethinking Design and Making in Architecture. (New York: Routledge, 2008).