Architectural details
This page offers a variety of online resources related to architecture and construction, including detailed plans, technical specifications, and sustainable design insights. It features databases, professional associations, and archives focused on both contemporary and historic architectural details.
Databases
- DETAIL LIBRARY
Shares construction details that can be adjusted and amended to suit your own projects. - Detail Inspiration
Includes plans, drawings, elevations, technical specifications and images for over 4000 architectural designs from around the world. - BUILD - Australian Building Construction and Engineering Database
Is an archived abstract database that indexes and abstracts material on worldwide information in the building, construction and engineering field including fire technology. - ArchDaily
A collection of architectural projects with detailed drawings and descriptions, focusing on construction details. - The Building Enclosure
A free online resource owned and operated by Building Science Corporation. BSC takes a leadership role in promoting the design and construction of buildings that are healthier, less energy-consuming, and more durable and economical. - ARCHIBLOX
Offers plans, sections, and details for sustainable projects, providing insights into eco-friendly design and construction. - Historic Details
Explores beautiful designs and details of historic houses in America, including ornamental stairs, windows, doors, fireplaces, surface finishes, and furnishings.
Professional Associations and Networks
- The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Provides resources, education, and networking opportunities for architecture professionals, including seminars and workshops focused on architectural detailing.
- Australian Institute of Architects Includes networking events and education programs and works collaboratively with key stakeholders across government and industry and with affiliate peak organisations.
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Provides resources including access to the RIBA Library, talks, and professional development opportunities focused on design and detailing.
- International Union of Architects (UIA) Facilitates international exchange and education in architecture by offering conferences, competitions, and workshops that enhance understanding of global detailing practices.
Books
These books offer a comprehensive look at various aspects of architecture and construction, from visual guides on building principles to detailed case studies on timber architecture and modern residential design. They explore technical aspects of construction detailing, materials, and styles, while also providing frameworks for understanding architectural sections and guiding the creation of precise construction drawings.
Building Construction Illustrated by ISBN: 9781119583189Publication Date: 2020-01-03It illustrated is a comprehensive visual guide that presents the principles of building construction with updated materials, methods, and systems.
Elements of Style by ISBN: 0684835215Publication Date: 1997-03-04Examines the details of architectural styles from 1485 to 1996, and provides a directory of suppliers and biographical data on select architects and designers.
Detail in Contemporary Timber Architecture by ISBN: 1856696413Publication Date: 2010-03-31It analyses the technical and aesthetic significance of details in modern timber designs, showcasing 50 recent and influential projects by renowned architects.
Architecture in Detail II by ISBN: 9780080965352Publication Date: 2010-05-19It features 40 case studies of recent construction projects, showcasing innovative detailing through over 150 colour drawings and photos.
Barry's Advanced Construction of Buildings by ISBN: 9781118977132Publication Date: 2018-08-31It offers an authoritative guide to constructing larger-scale buildings, covering timber, concrete, and steel frames.
Basics Detail Drawing by ISBN: 9783035613926Publication Date: 2018-01-09It explains the step-by-step process of creating detailed construction designs, highlighting the importance of precise drawings for tradesmen.
Architectural Detailing by ISBN: 9781118882603Publication Date: 2016-02-24It is an industry-standard guide that explains the principles of designing efficient and durable architectural details. It provides clear illustrations to help architects create designs that prevent leaks, control heat and moisture, accommodate movement, and are easy to construct.
Detail in Contemporary Residential Architecture 2 by ISBN: 9781780671758Publication Date: 2014-11-04It showcases 50 recent, influential residential designs by renowned architects, emphasising both technical and aesthetic details.
Manual of Section by ISBN: 9781616895556Publication Date: 2016-08-23It introduces a framework for understanding and evaluating architectural sections, categorising seven types of sections found in buildings from simple to complex structures.
