Descriptive Geometry for architecture

The course focuses on the main methods of architectural representation and their geometric principles. The main topics include:

• Double orthogonal projections: project plans and elevations.
• Intersections of lines and planes: architectural sections.
• Curves: circles, ellipses, spirals and raccords.
• Axonometry: types of axonometric projections, cutaway axonometries and exploded views.
• Freehand drawing: managing a sketchbook and producing study drawings.
• Central and accidental perspective: setting up a perspective view through the control of the viewpoint.
• Shadows: theory and applications to project views.

The course is taught in Italian.

The course aims to develop students’ understanding of the relationship between architectural representation methods and their geometric construction. Students learn to use descriptive geometry as a fundamental tool for architectural design, developing precision, spatial reasoning and manual drawing skills, also within a contemporary digital context.

In presence

The course combines theoretical lessons with short practical exercises. The lessons explain the transition between descriptive geometry theory and architectural representation methods. Exercises are assigned throughout the course in order to immediately verify students’ understanding and clarify theoretical topics through direct application. The course requires the use of traditional architectural drawing tools, such as set squares, compass and pencils, as well as an A5 white-page sketchbook, with the aim of encouraging manual skills, precision and drawing discipline. Attendance is mandatory.

The assessment is based on two written tests, one at the end of each semester of the academic year. The evaluation also includes the content of the sketchbook, which must be submitted during the exam sessions.