Drawing a building is not as daunting as it may seem at first glance. With just a few simple tools and some practice, you can create outstanding architectural renderings. If you’ve ever dreamed of sketching majestic skyscrapers and beautiful cathedrals, read on for the deets on how to do it!
Start By Breaking It Down
When tackling a complex building, don’t feel overwhelmed. It’s far easier to draw a building when you break it down into manageable pieces, almost like putting together a puzzle. Start with the basic forms of the walls and windows, foundation, and roof. After your foundation is complete, you can add in the details like the doors, balconies, and even trees or other foliage.
Gather Supplies
To draw your building, you’ll need the basics: graphite drawing pencils, erasers, and drawing paper. You may also want to add a colored pencil or two, an HB pencil, and a kneaded eraser. Once you have the essentials, you’re ready to start sketching!
Consider Proportion
It’s extra important to pay attention to proportion when drawing something like a building. It’s easy to distort your drawing if you don’t pay attention to scalar size and ratio. When you’re setting up the drawing, make sure to note any relevant measurements so you can maintain the correct proportions.
Pay Attention To Shading
For a realistic drawing, you’ll want to pay close attention to shade. The light source is key here. Remind yourself which direction light is coming from as you shade in brick walls, windows, and roofing. For additional shading effects, use a blending stump or a soft pencil.
Add Finishing Touches
Once you’ve finished the main components of your drawing, it’s time to add some finishing touches. You can beautify the outside of your building with trees and flowers or add inside details like windows, furniture, and even people. If you’ve decided to draw a modern building, feel free to add some cool graffiti or throw in some scaffolding.
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Drawing a building is certainly a challenge. As with any art form, practice is the key to developing your skills. Take your time, break it down into small steps, and don’t give up when it gets difficult. With some dedication and lots of practice, you’ll become a master of building renderings!
Use the Right Techniques
If you want your drawing to really pop, you’ll have to make sure you’re using the right drawing techniques. Start by sketching out a light outline, drawing shapes and lines to make up the base of your structure. Then, fill in the details with shading and coloring. A great way to do this is to use a layering technique, where you apply multiple layers of shading for a more realistic effect. Be sure to use the correct pencils for each layer to achieve different levels of darkness or hue.
Visualize, Strategize, and Execute!
Once you’ve chosen your building, it’s time to strategize. Try to get a sense of the building so you can plan out your drawing. Think about things like the level at which you’ll draw, the angles and perspective you’ll use, and all the details you’ll add. After that, it’s time to execute. Draw, erase, and draw again until all the forms, shapes and shading are perfect.
Have Fun
Building renderings don’t have to be intimidating. Have some fun while you’re sketching and don’t be afraid to get creative. Draw a funky building and color it in with wild hues, or go with a classic look using subtle shading and black and white pencils. It’s entirely up to you—and your own personal style—to create an awesome architectural masterpiece.
