Architecture is one of the key elements in an urban sketch (generally speaking), yet it can also be one of the most intimidating elements to sketch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this post we will look at some of the key elements to consider when sketching architecture, such as common types of perspective, simplifying complicated architectural elements, conveying convincing materials and textures, composition and loose sketching versus highly detailed work. I will provide examples from prominent urban sketchers along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let’s get into it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the keys to a successful architecture sketch is drawing elements in perspective. Perspective is a fundamental skill in drawing in which we can make objects on a 2D surface appear more 3D. This makes the results of the learning perspective super satisfying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most urban sketchers are not slaves to perspective. We are not architectural illustrators for example (although many urban sketchers do come from the field of architecture). Urban sketchers won\u2019t generally map out their sketch with perspective lines converging at the vanishing points as it takes away from the \u2018sketching in the moment\u2019 and perhaps the looser feeling some sketchers want to achieve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once you understand the principles of perspective, it can be simple enough to gauge perspective by eye rather than using lots of guidelines. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are some tips and tricks that can be used to still arrive at a reasonably accurate drawing in perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One point perspective is where all the lines of your building (or subject) converge to meet at one point on the horizon, known as the vanishing point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This sketch by Phil Dean<\/strong> (@shoreditchsketcher<\/a>) demonstrates the use of one-point perspective beautifully. You can see all of the lines converging to one point in the horizon far off the right of the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n