How I Sketch + Design Architectural Details

Sketch with me in this video as I design custom details for a residential project. Inventing bespoke solutions to design challenges is the reason I love designing homes. Often, if I'm stuck on a design brief, I’ll zoom in and begin sketching a detail. There’s something about the scale and how manageable it is to solve simple problems that helps me move forward.
For me, this process always starts in my sketchbook (or on the iPad) and then I’ll move to the computer to draw it more precisely following that. Starting informally with a sketch allows me to be free and fast with ideas and it leads me to other threads I hadn't anticipated. You'll see this in the video as I chase down a few absurd ideas.
The process begins with a design brief: in this case the hanging coats at the entry wall and adding a flip-down desk near the pantry area. I then compile inspiration imagery (like the military field desks) and grab a ruler to have on hand as I'm designing. Relating to the human scale is an important part of detailing and a ruler helps you set proper proportions for drawers, desk height, etc.
A trick I use as I'm drawing is to really think hard about the daily patterns of life around the subject I'm designing. How would someone use this space? What would they have in their pockets, what would their daily routine moving through or around this space be like? Placing yourself there and asking what would make this experience better, or more "delightful" leads to novel insights. Delightful is kind of a corny word but it’s the best descriptor I can think of. It's the thing that makes you smile when you see it, and say, “Wow, they really thought this through! They really considered what it means to live here, in this place.”
The point of sketching is to chase down all the bad ideas, all the strange threads of thinking, including the absurd. Be open to thinking differently and the invented solutions may surprise you. It's important to not to put too much pressure on it, these aren’t beautiful drawings, they’re process, they show the steps from one idea to the next.
Timestamps to help you navigate:
00:00 Inventing solutions
00:22 Sean Godsell Quote
00:27 Design Brief: Entry Wall Details
00:51 Tools I use when designing details
02:28 Sketching ideas
06:54 Taking it further
08:32 Zinc shelving idea
10:08 Typography monogramming
11:25 House "FOB" idea
11:57 Design Brief: Flip-down desk design
12:59 Sketching on iPad
14:24 Idea to eliminate hardware
16:56 Desk materials + interior
19:26 Leather tab idea
21:55 Designing the stool
22:50 A step stool too?
23:57 Analog ideas
24:20 Oops.
The sketchbook I'm using in the video is a new custom project called TRACE. The media is a 90# vellum, printed with a grid of white reticles, it takes graphite, ink and alcohol markers (like Copics) beautifully. Set for release in May of 2021, learn more here: thirtybyforty.com/trace-sketc...
If you made it to the end and you're reading this, this is a personal thank you for your support. I don't have a big team that helps me film, edit or post these videos, it's just me so the feedback and support from people like you is invaluable and never taken for granted.
JOIN MY ONLINE COURSES:
Enroll here: courses.thirtybyforty.com/
DIGITAL DRAWING TEMPLATES:
* AutoCAD: thirtybyforty.com/autocad-temp...
* REVIT: thirtybyforty.com/revit-template
ARCHITECT'S TOOLKIT:
Architect + Entrepreneur Startup Toolkit (* *NEW for 2020 ** ): thirtybyforty.com/spl
MUSIC I USE (free 30-day trial):
thirtybyforty.com/epidemic
ALL MY GEAR:
*thirtybyforty.com/kit
#architecture #sketchlikeanarchitect #architecturalsketching

[@rihakhan1539]

it feels like a master class from a famous architect

[@TheAeron321]

I like your description better. I was comparing Erik to creative Bob Ross vibe.

[@antonio.w2406]

Mans got consistency. These videos only get better & better.

[@30by40]

cheers mate...appreciate that!

[@MatthewEncina]

Thanks for giving us a peak inside your sketchbook.

[@30by40]

Thanks, Matthew! Humbled to see you here in the comments... \m/

[@reddevilian]

i love how these ideas are not just ideas, they are little stories, narratives that helps you imagine what it is like to be using them.

[@thomasbranson5116]

It's a very common theme in architecture. As a student, I hear my professor tell us almost every day that each design should tell a story, create a narrative, and inspire feelings. It makes the profession so much more than what it already is.

[@reddevilian]

@@thomasbranson5116 Yes it is a very common; as an Architect in practice working on commercial and civic projects, this narrative is often lost in the hundreds of meetings and paperwork.

[@danielgrindrod]

The production quality in these videos is inspiring alone! the fact that you're sharing valuable knowledge as well, that's an added bonus! Thank you.

[@30by40]

Cheers Daniel...appreciate that!

[@leninicordeiro1578]

I'm not even an acrchitect but I love these videos!

[@akibmahdi9987]

man it's really good how you show the inside steps and thinking processes, so we can know how much effort goes into even the simplest design solutions.

[@HowardxDuck]

This was so fun to experience along with you. It’s cool to see your design thinking! Keep making videos, they great

[@zassmedia5738]

watching your sketch progress was like a therapy mate

[@teepz04]

my life cycle involves, watching a vid from 30X40, become inspired to be productive, go on notion and organise, feel accomplished, get lazy and watch yt vids and then procrastinate, and repeat

[@30by40]

Facts. Highly recommend the little tick boxes in Notion, adds a little dopamine hit to your accomplishments.

[@teepz04]

@@30by40 yeah I do that too

[@ceooflonelinessinc.267]

@@teepz04 where are you from?

[@teepz04]

@@ceooflonelinessinc.267 nz

[@MurelaxFX]

As someone about to start architectural design at uni in 2 weeks I just wanted to say thank you for all of this free content. I’ve been binging your videos for the past 2 days.

[@DavidBrown-hi7xk]

As someone who hand sketches designs for custom furniture this video was interesting and helpful, and inspiring! Thank you Eric!

[@gayatrinadagouda]

Great way of learning through brief process sketches and those details.... thanks again for this!!!

[@Chrisortizch]

I love to watch these videos while working. Its just so relaxing

[@ilichiregius2884]

These glimpses into the creative process Eric goes through are so Awesome.

[@aniketsharma3177]

Only watching your beautiful work for last 3 years i decided to opt for architecture you are my role model

[@terryrichardson5493]

Excellent video! Thank you for guiding us through all your processes! It is an excellent resource.

[@jephninety5434]

Your series is INCREDIBLE! I am a set designer for stage. I have begun using your techniques to further my maquettes. I can play with lighting, sight lines, etc., when pitching my concepts to the director and artistic director Theater is collaborative, for better or worse.

[@spiriitualminded]

you’re so amazing man!! Ur my inspiration! I’ve been struggling with college lately, but when I come to ur page I remember everything will eventually get better!

[@imadasmone8915]

Architectural gift for the valentines... "IN LOVE WITH THE DETAILS" ❤️❤️❤️

[@rushabhsanghvi2522]

Wow. Your videos are so sophisticated I really love to watch your videos without any break. You inspire me a lot. Thankyou. 🙌

[@YISUSPT]

All your videos inspire me to be better on my projects. Thanks my friend.

[@joeallam]

This was such a delight to watch! So keen to see the desk build in reality as well - those sketches really brought it to life and got all sorts of inspiration senses tingling ☺️

[@HowardxDuck]

Hey Joe! Didn’t know you watch 30x40 too. Love your content as well brother!

[@martymaloney1032]

Love that desk detail.

[@mouseich9576]

Thank you for making this video! It's really well produced and a nice insight to see the design process and its transition from traditional to digital platforms.

[@lukasgiefing1102]

I have watched almost every video you have made, to date. You have inspired me more than you'll ever know. Thank you Eric

[@30by40]

Happy to hear that! cheers mate...

[@mrfreeze88]

Just love your style and you are a brilliant architect! I enjoy all your videos. Thank you.

[@murshedshawk5322]

Wonderful video. Love this format and how youre walking us through your thought process while you work. Invaluable. Looking forward for more. Thanks for sharing.

[@30by40]

cheers my friend...TY!

[@coreyrobinson9591]

So glad to have a new video from 30x40. This has made my morning and has given me the push I needed to continue in architecture school. Thanks!

[@30by40]

Enjoy archi-school...best of times...

[@brianteron973]

I was commenting to my wife on how your sketches always remind me of da Vinci's sketches. I was a graphic artist early in my life and always enjoyed the process when a group of us would brainstorm a project design and the end session would be this large blackboard of images and comments. I'm always amazed by your work.

[@30by40]

You're too kind, I'm totally flattered! I struggle with sharing unfinished work and process sketches like these for fear of looking unprofessional and unpolished. But, like you, I know how gratifying it can be to look back on all the steps (and missteps) that led to the finished product. With gratitude...Eric

[@kingasz100]

Enjoyed this. Thank you. These videos are very helpful and I also admire your bravery to involve us into your process.

[@Architectureofkb]

I love the way you sketch ! Every video you keep inspiring me and thank to you i can get better every time :) good video as always !

[@thegeordiearchitect]

Great new video. Nice to see a video really getting into the detail of a project, thinking at such a close scale.

[@lungabibi775]

Thank you again for all the content you have been sharing. I'm a student and your work has really been a source of inspiration.

[@dal2888859]

Powerful! Thanks so much for sharing these wonderful techniques and solutions. Inspiring.

[@_la.architect]

THANK Y S MUCH FOR YOUR AMAZING EFFORTS AND ALL THE BEST ON THE UPCOMING , I CAN'T WAIT TO USE YOUR TRACING BOOK !

[@TheBrothersWorkshop]

Another great video filled with informative content! Thank you for sharing this with us Eric!

[@David_Stumpf]

Couldn't have said it better myself! Great content Eric, and not too far from how I design the details of spaces within a building.

[@NickTree90]

I wish someone had described architecture to me like this 0:03 ten years ago when I was choosing a major in college.

[@narensolanki8894]

Amazing Eric....you continue to inspire...!!!

[@Simba-mr1je]

sketches are so beautiful!! makes me wanna sketch more.

[@varshinikirlampalli7885]

Your videos are immensely inspiring! Thank you!

[@bartbliek469]

These sketching video's are great, not strictly as informative, but just watching you work and being able to follow along with your thought process is really inspring. They always make me want to reach for a sketchbook right away.

[@30by40]

cheers...they're working then... \m/

[@skylarhall7922]

Thanks for making this video. Helped me to pull away from CAD for a bit to actually develop my details.

[@timothy-holt]

Absolutely fascinating. It is a joy to watch and listen to you work. Cheers, Tim

[@30by40]

Appreciate that, Tim! \m/

[@ananyasinghal4745]

Fantastic video, as always. Interesting, thoughtful and aesthetically beautiful

[@ZakBurrell]

Love all your material. I'm an architect In South Australia work for large building company. Have all my line weights and alot of other tips from you in my reperware. Thankyou

[@rogerhines4368]

Another inspiring video, love to see your design process thoughts and sketches. One word..... Awesome 👏🏻

[@30by40]

Appreciate that my friend! 🙏🏻

[@SurvivingArchitecture]

Great video! Thanks for sharing Eric. Really helpful in my studies ☺️

[@iMetallized]

Love your videos Surviving Architecture! It's so helpful as well ❤

[@SurvivingArchitecture]

@@iMetallized Thank you! It means alot 💛

[@misdede1959]

Its so great to see architecture channels supporting each other!

[@sayedsohail8942]

Your also helpful for me because I am an Architect

[@SurvivingArchitecture]

@@sayedsohail8942 oh wow.. Really? That's amazing to hear. Which videos do you watch?

[@bernardwind1633]

Even if it appears your audience is not experienced architects, I think most architects are open minded enough (by default of their profession and education), to recognise that seeing other people do familiar things can always enable learning. Your set up is really awesome, exemplary of what many would like. Many thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@only_Drawing_City_TV]

_WOW 😊I want to see your idea sketch come true_ _I'm really looking forward to it_

[@robertjohnstone8055]

I’ve enjoyed using the iPad for polished work and portability. However, it cannot replicate the feeling one gets from flipping through a physical sketchbook and the overall accessibility. Great video as always Eric!

[@30by40]

Totally agree...I do like the iPad the more I use it though...definitely growing on me!

[@festfotodesign]

Great inside view in your sketching process !

[@MrAnthonyLord]

always love the videos!!!! can't get enough!

[@rodriguezn1983]

Love it dude...I'm also in the design field I'm a Structural CAD Designer-Detailer for 19 years using both AutoCAD and Microstation and your channel is inspirational brother

[@TheMjnorthcut]

Just got the shipment notice for my trace sketchbooks. Can't believe no one has made these before! Such a genius idea.

[@30by40]

Nice...the vellum is such an enjoyable medium to sketch on...I hope you enjoy them...! !

[@TheMjnorthcut]

@@30by40 I definitely meant to say vellum.

[@guganeshanmahalingam7915]

For the first time I have not noticed the timeline of the video... Totally engaged with your video... Great learning thanks..

[@caterinatatti674]

First of all, I’m sorry if my English isn’t very correct but I’m Italian and I’m trying to write as clean as possible... I just wanted to thank you for always giving us very helpful informations and tips! For us students you are so precious. I watch all of your videos and I can’t get enough! You are the teacher every architecture student needs in his career. Thank you!

[@nitinkumarchourasia1880]

Its an amazing book i have studied by u Architecture Architecture entrepreneur 1 volume branding,and marketing its very much helpful for Architectural business,now i plan for individual firm with ur guidance and wants to work like u as an creative designer.thanku eric.

[@aminabensaada9348]

One of your OG subscriber here ✋ It's definitely one of your best videos so far. Everything is so neat from the drawings to the design process to the filming and editing. Design within design within design. Inception of design really. BRAVO !

[@30by40]

🙏appreciate the support and kind words!

[@FuckingMosh666]

What a coincidence, while I’m watching your video I’m sketched out a work station because I need one for my computer, Great work.

[@Warakornish]

Such a high quality video, Cheers!

[@deepakpanchal01]

Thank you Sir, I got inspired by seeing this way of sketching.

[@TheAeron321]

Very cool! Watching Eric's evolution in his details, reminded me a little of a Bob Ross, creative vibe.

[@carlstanford7607]

Another awesome video. Great job

[@anshikaprakash9396]

sir your works inspire me a lot! Thank You

[@thorsont]

Thank you for sharing how you go about designing. I could watch your stuff all day long, your like Bob Ross of architecture world.

[@TheAeron321]

Nice I had the same reaction, I was feeling the Bob Ross vibe, too.

[@Oliver14417]

Your videos really inspire me to be more productive and creative with my architecture studies for university. Keep up the great videos.

[@30by40]

\m/

[@misslivelife9956]

This has helped me out so much thank you!!

[@GravitySketchYouTube]

This is incredible, thanks for sharing!

[@StevieMoore]

A few weeks ago I accidentally posted a comment on this video that was meant for another video about AI. I just want to say that this is awesome work, love that you utilize traditional media as well as digital!

[@darriusadams2945]

Nice! Thank you again for this awesome videos! Your sketching style is very inspiring to me! Cheers from Michigan!!

[@30by40]

appreciate that my friend...cheers...

[@itzelvillalba4176]

That desk design was so cool I want one😆

[@arch-x]

I love these videos man aspire to make something like this for people in the future seriously man love from the heart. You just changed my way of thinking about architecture all together..... ❤️

[@30by40]

too kind...appreciate that my friend...cool thing is, you can get started making this kind of thing right now, just hit record...

[@yossiyaari3760]

I built a small version of this unit in my bed room. And I was having problems designing the pegs/hangers. This is perfect.

[@Alexchegne]

Would love to see how Eric puts a woodworking DIY vid together... Such a good story teller when other would even see a story at all.

[@spaceskipster4412]

Great video, thanks Eric. 👍🏼

[@darwinmcquerter7463]

Great video Eric!

[@stuartwatson2732]

great insight into the mind and thoughts of an architect 👍🏻

[@leighharron]

I really enjoy these peeks into your imagination and work-throughs. You seem like a notebook on the bedside table kinda guy

[@indulameegoda]

Sir! You are the best! Thank You very much!

[@tommasonicoli3391]

One of the best video you ever made.

[@30by40]

Wow, thanks! \m/

[@saryamahdy3954]

it's amazing we can have access to this great knowledge and filming quality for free!

[@bojanalex5927]

Great video tutorial as always

[@CosminMiron]

Wow Eric, your mind is a maze...thanks for sharing those ideas and sketches....A - maze - ing ! 🤘✌️👍

[@30by40]

thanks...I think!?

[@saraababsa8458]

The best architecture KZbin channel 💪💪

[@johnstephendamiray2500]

Thankyou sir for giving tips to be a Good Architect❤Godbless you sir❤

[@christophermoody1448]

Another great video!

[@johncaga-anan2274]

Waiting for this Eric 30x40 Design Workshop :D Thanks for sharing . Keep it up :)

[@GregNow]

oh man, I was trying to figure out this flap desk design fro quite a few weeks with hardware available I had not enough faith in the strength and if it's going to hold. This pivot hinge with a stop on the fixed shelve make s it easy! One I am making will be within the unit that can a be moved up and down with 12V actuator so it can be stand up desk as well. Nice, this was helpful I shamelessly ripping of this solution!

[@martymaloney1032]

No more Anarchy! 😆 Love your detail.

[@Gilagain54]

Great video, inspired some creative ideas for my clients mudroom. I am going to place a 6 inch deep cabinet with phone and I pad charging stations and key hangers with a pull panel that will have a cork and chalk board face on the exterior face. The panel will act as a temporay writing surface.

[@ginnyXP]

Great video! Thanks for sharing!

[@shlaybayy]

"I don't know... it's just an idea." If creativity/design had a motto, it would be this.

[@Bhavishah8]

My Lecturer always told me... Its never "Just an Idea". Be proud and say " Its an Idea!".. surely we use the word " just " many times... but we demean it a little... by saying it... 30x40 is amazing though!

[@leinad9324]

Goosebumps. ❤

[@mohammudyaasir1552]

Great job👍🏻👍🏻

[@BuhayArkitektoVlog2021]

Wow amazing details

[@ikiridominic3688]

I just could not Waite but subscribe....I love your carefulness n confidence

[@ikiridominic3688]

Thank u ....great

[@bernardoleyva2091]

Nice showing us your techniques, where we can go further and get them more interesting every idea we get, this give us the point that every idea is useful every plan is neccessary to become something in any space we create or design, thats what we called Evolution because evrything we add or quit, can give us a change give us another path another side where this can prevail better

[@The1411991]

Oh my... I love that you used Klaus Zwergers Book as an inspiration. He is a Professor at my University and I'm thinking about making my masters thesis with him :) Great video, I really aspire to get my design process to this approach, since I have a technical background and I'm not too great at sketching... Getting into the flow and coming up with new ideas that build up on each other as you go sound like the holy grail to me ;)

[@Rm-mq2qg]

you have an amazing ability to sketch.

[@Matrixsection]

Great process

[@merawisisay8892]

The quality of the video is just👌