Is Sketching an Important Factor in Architecture and Interior Design?

When I realized that to be a successful architect and/or interior designer, I needed to be able to draw and sketch, I was shaking! My drawing/sketching skills were rusty at best. I haven't attempted a real piece of art in over a decade. Naturally, doubt crept in but it isn't all bad once the "why" of being able to draw is uncovered. So, do we need to be able to sketch well as architects and interior designers?

Luckily, when we start our journey into interior design and architecture, drawing classes are prerequisites and can quickly be identified as to why. Drawing/sketching is simply another way of saying communication. Everyone everywhere will say communication is key; whether we're talking about relationships or professions. So no, we don't need to sketch overly well or be some transcendent talent when it comes to sketching but we do need to sketch/draw well enough to communicate our ideas effectively. Think of it this way: we won't be working alone and no one can read our minds so other people will need to be able to read our language.

The point of taking drawing classes is to learn the basics, learn the language, make incremental progress on each assignment, and begin practicing. At the end of the class, we're able to see where we started and where we are now. It's pretty cool, to be honest. No one expects us to come to a beginners class as an expert. We all start somewhere. With practice comes progress. There's no way we can practice and put in the work only to not see any progression in our skills.

Imagine meeting with a client and not being able to express the ideas in your head or translate them to paper. It would be tragic! Sure, electronic forms are available and make it so much easier these days, however, they're a tool, not the main ingredient. Knowing and being proficient with a pen in our hands allows us to use the digital tool that much better (view my Noir Coffee Bar to see a rough floor plan get transformed into a rendered design here). Sometimes a client will need to see an idea right then and there and if they have to wait a day or a week, they may lose interest versus us being able to quickly jot down an idea so everyone knows the vision right away.

When I first began, I was trash. That's me being honest with myself. Over time, I have come to grow into a competent sketcher. I'm not where I'd like to be but I'm practicing and making progress every time the pen touches the paper. It's quite fun too! Take a look at my progress: from my first class up until today.

I don't care about showing my practice work because it may help someone. I'm not embarrassed about giving effort because I'm working to get better every single day. Criticism is a natural downside but it's welcomed when it is constructive or helpful. Remember that those who are doing more than us will never criticize us, only uplift and try to help our journey. Practice daily is a must.

Join me on my journey @noirandneutralsstudio on Instagram. With love, see y'all next time!

Are you an interior design or architecture student? Are you a design professional? Have something to add? Let's connect!