Analytical Field Drawing: Outremont

Since the Renaissance, architects have sketched and measured all facets of architecture in portable bound books. Architects have used the sketchbook to record historical artifacts in both pictorial representation, three-dimension sketches, and carefully measured drawings drawn to scale.

This course will introduce the student to a method of sketchbook drawing that is focused on accurately measured drawings of accessible architectural details, drawn-to-scale in a sketchbook. This course will emphasize analytical orthographic drawings of plan, section, elevation, and profile. Subject matter for measuring and drawing can range from large-scale urban elements, such as squares, streets, street sections, courtyards, gardens, etc., to small details such as doorways, windows, stairs, ornamental stone carving, column capitals and bases, mouldings, ironwork, millwork, paving, etc.

The course is intended for both students and seasoned architects, as drawings can be tailored to the individual’s experience level.

This class will have two parts:

Part I – Introduction Lecture – The Architects Measured Sketchbook

June 26th via Zoom

Nathan Thomas will give a brief introduction to the history of measured field drawings as done by architects past and present as well as a step-by-step methodology of how to set up a field drawing.

Part II – Field Drawing at Outremont

June 27 from 10:00AM-2:00PM at Outremont

Participants will make measured field drawings

Required Materials:

1. Sketchbook; hardbound (+/-) 6” x 9”, stitched binding so the book can open flat, (Suggested Style) or any stitch bound sketchbook that will open flat.

2. 12” triangular architects scale, with 1/8”, 1/4”, 3/4”, 1 1/2” and 3” scales.

3. Mechanical pencil with 0.5 HB lead. (Alvin Draft/Matic or similar)

4. Eraserstick; (Tuff Stuff Eraser Stick or similar)

5. 12ft steel tape measure in feet and inches, to the 1/16”.

6. Laser measure (optional)

7. Folding wooden rule, 6ft (optional)

8. Small pencil bag or case to keep drawing supplies.

Instructors:

Nathan Thomas

Nathan Thomas is a licensed architect with D. Stanley Dixon Architect based in Atlanta. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a Master of Architectural Design and Urbanism in 2023, receiving the Ferguson and Shamamian Prize for excellence in classical design. In addition, he holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Mississippi State University. Initially attending the first-ever university workshop held by the ICAA as a student in 2016, he has since served as a teaching assistant and instructor at numerous workshops and studios with the ICAA and served as a visiting professor for the spring 2026 Sophomore Studio with the University of Notre Dame. Through the ICAA he has received the Kyle D. Taylor Memorial Fellowship and the 2025 Schutze prize for emerging professional.

Anne Northrop

Anne Northrop works as an architectural draftsman and designer at Tippett Sease Baker Architecture in Birmingham, Alabama. A native of Dallas, Texas, she graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2023 with a B.Arch degree. Anne brings her love for traditional design, pencil sketching, and hand drafting developed during her university years into her professional work. Shortly after moving to Alabama, Anne became involved with the ICAA Southeast’s activities in Birmingham; currently she helps to organize monthly architectural sketching outings and happy hours for young design professionals. Her favorite of the classical orders is the Greek Doric.

This event is hosted by an ICAA Chapter. Please check the Chapter website or contact the Chapter directly for the most up-to-date details including dates, times, and pricing.