How many different lineweights do you use?
How many different lineweights do you use?
August 1, 2023
by Crysly Egaña
Hey, Jonathan here!
Its antecedent dates back to 1957. But it became truly massive with the irruption of personal computers in the 1990s. Today we present: Computer-aided Design (CAD).
It’s the use of computer systems to assist in the creation, analysis, and iteration of a design by visualizing 2D or 3D graphics on a screen. Basically, is about creating something digital before it’s ever manufactured. The advantages of CAD are similar to other technologies in the architectural field. It provides a first look that is realistic, accurate and precise in terms of measurements, allowing for improved collaboration between teams and clients, helping to communicate complexity to people who might not have spatial ability. And it’s faster than hand drawing. Today, we think in CAD, or “CADing” how we internally say it in 3D JONY, to refer to 2D representations.
How big has been their impact? It's something that we're still seeing. Some architects remain skeptical of technology. Others recognize their benefits but notice that something may be lost when they only draw on the computer. However, CAD and hand drawing should not be seen as in conflict with each other. Both have their own space and contributions in the design process of an architectural idea.
Perhaps a mix of methods is the way forward. Drawing is an ideal tool for forming ideas and design software is usually used for precision and clarity that is required in the later stages of the project. The debate is not about choosing one over the other, but rather about how to integrate them in both schools of architecture and studios. For example, when we see how CAD affects design of students, it draws the attention to bounded ideation and circumscribed thinking. Often, ideas and thinking are constrained by the CAD tool's capabilities, meaning that the CAD tool interferes too strongly in the design process by limiting what can be created. Additionally, it's important to consider the capabilities of hand drawing and software knowledge. While CAD helps people who don’t have great freehand drawing skills, the conceptualization of an idea can be limited by people's knowledge of CAD features.
Our best advice: Think about what you want to draw before opening your favorite CAD software.
3Directions
Let's delve into our own visual grammar - or architect’s score.
Architects are constantly searching for the best way to communicate our ideas. A close friend? Lineweight. Let's go back to basics: it's expressed in numerical values, typically ranging from 0.05mm to 2.0mm or more. A higher numerical value indicates a thicker line, while a lower value represents a finer line. Everyone is free to choose, but for 1:100 plans we recommend these four lineweights:
Hairline (0.05mm): The thinnest lineweight is ideal for displaying elements that require the utmost precision. Commonly used for symbols, annotations, and fine details, the hairline ensures that these elements do not overpower the main elements of the drawing.
Thin (0.18mm): The weight is perfect for secondary elements and minor details. It is often used to indicate dimensions, interior fixtures, and less significant elements in the plan. Its subtle appearance avoids overshadowing the main components.
Medium (0.35mm): Architects frequently use this weight for the main structures, walls, and other critical components of the architectural plan. Its slightly thicker appearance helps establish hierarchy and importance within the drawing.
Thick (0.50mm):This weight is reserved for major elements that require strong emphasis. Typically employed for outlining the building perimeter, structural elements, and important notes. The thick lineweight ensures that crucial features stand out clearly.
Why do we recommend this? This kind of grammar allows your plans to be more organized and easier to read. Also speeds up the drawing process by eliminating the need to adjust various lineweight types. Essentially, you can create architectural plans that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also effectively communicate design intent to clients, builders, and other stakeholders.
Let’s think.
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of great works of architecture? That they are beautiful. It is not common to hear, on first impression, that they fulfill a great role in society or that they have helped improve the urbanism of an area, even if that was their objective.
In this section, our purpose is to engage in deep conversations and debates around our field. Today, we propose the following question:
Does a plan have to be necessarily beautiful?
We look forward to your comments via email or on our Discord server, where you’ll find a special forum dedicated to The Blueprint’s discussions, called “lets-think-the-blueprint”.
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