Architecture

Every architect faces the intimidating task of putting together a portfolio, at least once in their lifetime. The fact, that it is the portfolio that is seen before the architect, by a potential employer, makes a portfolio somewhat like a first impression and we all know how to important it is, to get that right.
The root cause of the confusion in making a portfolio, I believe is linked to the confusion of the meaning of the phrase, architecture portfolio. An architecture portfolio is not just an agglomeration of the subtotal of the work produced by an architect. An architecture portfolio can be considered as a representation of the very person of the architect in his/ her physical absence. Every architect is different, so are their portfolios, though there is one basic formula for bringing together a portfolio. Let us take a look at this process in detail, step by step.
<h2><ins>STEP 1: FINALISE CONTENT</ins></h2>
Content is core to any narration and that includes a portfolio. No matter how good the visuals are, if your content is not good enough, any good architectural firm will dismiss your portfolio straightaway. On the other hand, they may appoint you, but only as a renderer or draftsman. Thus, making it very important to screen your work, i.e. to look at one’s own work with a critical eye and only select the very best. The content put into a portfolio varies, and so does the selection process. Let us take a look at the various content and content selection processes that go into making an architecture portfolio.
<ul>
<li><ins>MACRO SELECTION/ PROJECT SELECTION</ins></li>
</ul>
The first level of screening involves segregation of the best projects from the aggregate set. It is important to first zero down on the projects that will be a part of the portfolio. A compact portfolio with a few good projects, showcasing a variety of styles, often trumps a portfolio with many random mediocre projects. What also catches the eye of the employer is different types of architectural projects, e.g. mixed use or sustainable architecture etc. It helps convey one's multidimensional interest in architecture and its various facets.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/article/19506471082_2aad1b4ce3_k_d.jpg" alt="Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/eager/19506471082" target="_self">Flickr/Vib Architecture</a>
<ul>
<li><ins>MICRO SELECTION/ INTRA PROJECT SELECTION</ins></li>
</ul>
Once the macro selection is complete, the next step for the architect is to do a micro screening. Micro screening helps an architect decide upon the drawings and diagrams of a particular project, that he wants to include in the portfolio. The micro screening is somewhat more tedious than the macro screening. It is through this selection, one chooses the skill set he wants to emphasize upon and showcase. Again as in the micro selection process, variety is super important. The selection should be such that all skills, such as renders, working drawings, conceptualization and more should be highlighted.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/article/3098500555_f792721808_o_d.jpg" alt="Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/fhke" target="_self">Flickr/FHKE</a>
<ul>
<li><ins>THE CURRICULUM VITAE</ins></li>
</ul>
Most architects make the C.V as a part of the portfolio itself. It usually forms the second page of the portfolio, and hence is of utmost importance. It introduces the employer to your work and gives them a sneak preview of your portfolio’s narrative. The content of the C.V. makes for another topic altogether, but one must keep in mind that the format of the C.V. must be in sync with the rest of the portfolio. Also, a crisp and compact C.V, with variety and extracurriculars always shines through better, than a long and vague C.V.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/article/4653607814_2a691dddde_b_d.jpg" alt="Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mmahgoub-the-designer" target="_self">Flickr/mmakgoub</a>
<ul>
<li><ins>THE EXTRACURRICULAR ADDITIVES</ins></li>
</ul>
Every employer seeks a multi-dimensional employee. Architecture firms are no different. Portfolios with extracurricular additions, such as photography, sketching or writing are always preferred over boring and purely work-centric portfolios. It also helps give the employer an in, into your multi-faceted personality and skill set.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/article/6123989202_75a7afa898_b_d.jpg" alt="Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/swaimsketching" target="_self">Flickr/Matt Swaim</a>
<h2><ins>STEP 2: FIX A FORMAT</ins></h2>
The second step towards making a portfolio is formatting. A well-formatted document also showcases your organizational skills to the employer. The first step towards formatting a portfolio is to decide a paper size. Most architects use an A3 paper size for their portfolios but one can always customize it based on the requirement. Once the page size is decided, it is advisable to divide the page into a uniform square grid. This imaginary grid helps one alloted uniform margin space, title space and much more. It helps form the base for the next step, Graphics. It is essential to maintain a consistent format throughout the portfolio.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/article/2328591656_311f762a73_o_d.jpg" alt="Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/keosh" target="_self">Flickr/Filipe Varela</a>
https://www.flickr.com/photos/keoshi/2328591656
<h2><ins>STEP3: DEVELOP GRAPHICS</ins></h2>
An architect could have the best of projects and content in his portfolio, but if they are not organized and displayed effectively, the dismissal of the portfolio is inevitable. Like formatting, it is essential to have uniform graphics throughout the portfolio. Graphics include elements such as font size, font style, image quality and the total arrangement of drawings and text on paper. Mostly Softwares like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator are used for developing formats, graphics, and layout. Clean cut layouts with minimal clutter and strong clear visual representation are often the characteristics of a winner portfolio.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/article/4805383850_b350e53b5c_b_d.jpg" alt="C:\Users\Ishita\Downloads\3949639023_1d29552794_o.jpg" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
https://www.flickr.com/photos/youworkforthem/
<h2><ins>STEP 4: COMPLETE VISUALIZATION, COMPILE, AND PRINT</ins></h2>
The last and final step towards putting together a portfolio is a compilation. A compilation is a process in which last minute details such as sheet order, page number, and last minute additions are looked at. It is as crucial as the making of a portfolio. Architects often use softwares like Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft PowerPoint Presentation to compile the final sheets of their portfolio. The compilation shows one the final product and also helps completely visualize it. It helps one look at the narrative as a whole before mailing it out for that dream job. People often email pdf of their portfolios to potential employers. Though one can also upload their portfolios at sites such as Behance and Issuu and send links to their profile to potential employers.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/article/finis-ray-design-portfolio-2-728.jpg?cb=1331841017" alt="Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
image credit: <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/fray88/finis-ray-design-portfolio-12014325" target="_self">Slideshare/Finis Ray</a>
Architecture portfolios can be terribly intimidating, but once you start with the process, things eventually start falling into place. One should not be afraid to put a unique twist to their portfolio, as long as it is comprehensive and lobbies dialogue in your favor. Portfolios are all about personalization and employers look forward to distinct portfolios. As important it is to learn other skills in the field of architecture, it is equally important to learn this one particular skill, i.e. to make an architecture portfolio.

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Every architect faces the intimidating task of putting together a portfolio, at least once in their lifetime. The fact, that it is the portfolio that is

Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio

As <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2757-life-architectures-student" target="_self">architecture students</a>, the portfolio is the most important thing for us. It defines us and puts us forward in the industry. It plays a crucial role in determining the type of architecture office we will get to work with in future. Since each architecture office practices a different and unique design methodology, they look for specific things in the architecture portfolio of the applicants. However, there are certain things everyone should keep in mind while making their portfolio. Take a read, and know which ones you are missing out on!
<h2>1. Resume and Portfolio should be together</h2>
They’re like a team. Cv gives a brief glimpse of what you’ve done and lists your skills, but it is the portfolio that is the game changer. It not only highlights your skill but gives you an edge over other applicants. It is a reflection of your creative genius.
Do check out <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2980-8-impressive-tips-make-cv-architecture-student" target="_self">8 Impressive Tips to make </a><a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2980-8-impressive-tips-make-cv-architecture-student" target="_self">CV</a><a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2980-8-impressive-tips-make-cv-architecture-student" target="_self"> for an Architecture Student</a>
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/2017/09/architecture-architect-quotes-famous-27.jpg" alt="improve your portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://cdn2.miragestudio7.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/architecture-architect-quotes-famous-27.jpg" target="_self">Mirage Studio 7</a>
<h2>2. Format and Presentation</h2>
Finalize on one format and keep it consistent throughout the portfolio. It is very important to make your portfolio look like one compact booklet rather than a scattered collection of projects - visual composition is the key. But make sure not to overload it, simplicity is the key here. Strike a balance between images and information - it should be precise but not incomplete.
Here are some tips to <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2803-brilliant-skill-set-make-architectural-presentation" target="_self">make an impressive </a><a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2803-brilliant-skill-set-make-architectural-presentation" target="_self">presentation</a>
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/2017/09/800px-Sustainable_Portable_Classroom_-_The_Learning_Kit.jpg" alt="make an impressive presentation" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sustainable_Portable_Classroom_-_The_Learning_Kit.jpg" target="_self">Wikimedia Commons</a>
<h2>3. Content is a King</h2>
A portfolio is a compilation of the best works you have done till late. It is of utmost importance that you put those projects which highlight your skills. Your projects should be divided and categorized broadly under the following categories: academic work, professional work and personal work (in that order).
Here are some more <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2734-brilliant-tips-make-professional-architecture-portfolio" target="_self">Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio</a>
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/2017/09/800px-Anna_Rosamund_Portfolio_Interiors.jpg" alt="content is king" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Anna_Rosamund_Portfolio_Interiors.jpg" target="_self">Wikimedia Commons</a>
<h2>4. Details</h2>
We have to show not only our creativity but also our understanding of technical/construction drawings in the portfolio. However, one needs to be very careful while compiling the technical drawings in the portfolio. Never submit all the drawings as it will eat up a lot of space in your project, and might make the portfolio boring. The key is to present the drawings so that the other person gets a general idea about your project.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/2017/09/FINAL%252BPRESENTATION%252BBOARD.jpg" alt="understanding of construction drawings" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: <a href="http://monakian.blogspot.in/2014_11_01_archive.html" target="_self">Blogspot</a>
<h2>5. Keep it to the Point</h2>
Nobody has time to read and go through everything that you have done. Quantity is not the guiding factor, so you should try to keep your portfolio in the range of 20-40 pages. I know everyone has fantastic work and they all want to show it, but this often backfires. The offices receive a dozen of portfolios daily, they will initially just browse through it and if they find something interesting then they will get on to the details. Large portfolios are often never looked at completely, the reason being that they have to browse a huge number of portfolios in a day. That is why it is important to keep your best projects in the initial pages of the portfolio.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/2017/09/2223450729_8761f4a0dd_z_d.jpg" alt="keep it to the point" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: Flickr/ogimogi
<h2>6. Customize your Portfolio</h2>
We all have a dream office! Many offices have a distinct architectural style and specialize in a certain branch of architecture. After shortlisting the offices that you want to apply to, you should modify your projects accordingly. It is advisable not to send the same projects to all the offices. That does not mean you need to make a different portfolio altogether. You could just tweak your portfolio syncing it to the architecture office’s style. Let’s say if you are applying in an architecture office that follows parametric architecture, you should include more projects based on parametric form and designing. This makes you a better candidate at that office.
You must read this <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2094-should-you-really-build-multiple-architecture-portfolios" target="_self">Should you Really Build Multiple Architecture Portfolios</a>
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.planndesign.com/2017/09/Colorful-Briefcase-Brown-Blue-Paper-Portfolio-385530.jpg" alt="customize your portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image credit: freegreatpicture.com
<h2>7. Be Honest</h2>
Be truthful about your projects and the contributions you have made in each project compiled in your portfolio. Projects are usually a teamwork, highlighting the work done by you will show your actual experience. Also, never ever lie about your projects. Putting someone else’s projects is the biggest mistake one can make, and it also VERY unprofessional. Even if your portfolio passes through the initial screening, you might get make a mistake during the personal interview when asked about the projects. And somehow, if it gets past that, they might expect a lot more from you than you are capable of based on your portfolio. In case they find out, it can tarnish your reputation in the industry. It is better to be yourself and just be honest.
Lastly, Take a read to this article, If you have given a second thought to your career for<a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2713-how-become-freelancer-architect" target="_self"> becoming a Freelance Architect</a>!!

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As <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2757-life-architectures-student" target="_blank">architecture students</a>, the portfolio is the most

7 ways to Improve your Portfolio!

<a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2734-brilliant-tips-make-professional-architecture-portfolio" target="_self">Building a portfolio</a> is the first step stone when dealing with the commercial world of architecture, whether it is an internship or the first job, building a portfolio is a must. The portfolio gives an insight into the abilities of an individual. Portfolio reflects the skills an individual possess. The portfolio is the measure of the skills and abilities acquired by an individual over a course of time. The portfolio is a piece of identity by virtue of which an employer examines and understands the potential of the candidate. So, the question arises, what is to be exactly included while building a portfolio, and is it beneficial to build multiple portfolios?
Here, we discuss the need to build multiple portfolios while <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2977-6-best-ways-apply-job-internship-architecture" target="_self">applying for a job or an internship</a>.
<ul>
<li>Targeted Approach- Architecture Portfolio </li>
</ul>
Building up a single portfolio and applying to hundreds of firms is a common mistake. This reduces the chances of being hired. The portfolio must focus on a particular subject and approach towards a set of very carefully selected and examined firms. A generalized portfolio is not a preferable option as every firm is different, with a different vision and different criteria. If a firm deals with the vernacular architectural practices, they are least interested in knowing your relationship with the steel skyscrapers, or if a firm deals with green and sustainable architecture, they must be interested in knowing how well you blend with such practices and this is how it just goes on.
You must check out <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2717-7-ways-improve-your-portfolio" target="_self">7 ways to improve your Portfolio!</a>
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.planndesign.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/targeted-approach-architect.jpg" alt="Building a Architecture Portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image source: <a href="https://www.maxpixel.net/Arrow-Focus-Point-Target-Goal-Pointing-Dart-Aim-444196" target="_self">Max Pixel</a>
<ul>
<li>Field Oriented- Architecture Portfolio </li>
</ul>
While applying for a particular field, try developing a portfolio that subjects to that field. It is often advised to put in your best work when assembling a portfolio, but also not forget to add up the material that supports the exact purpose for which that portfolio is being built. For instance, a portfolio built to enter the field of the interior designing field should have the majority of projects dealing with interior designing. Adding up of random content is not advisable at all.
Do check out <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2733-top-10-skill-set-every-architect-must-have" target="_self">Top 10 Skill Set Every Architect Must have</a>
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.planndesign.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/targeted-architecture.jpg" alt="architecture portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image source: <a href="https://www.maxpixel.net/Target-Set-Target-Successful-Reach-Realize-Arrive-2045924" target="_self">Max Pixel</a>
<ul>
<li>Company Oriented- Architecture Portfolio </li>
</ul>
There are companies that specialize in a particular type of projects, such as some companies specialize in designing hotels, some hospitals, some resorts and so on. Such companies demand an employee that specializes in that particular field. Thus, the nature of the work that the particular company deals with is definitely to be accounted while preparing a portfolio. Building up of the separate portfolio should be considered in such case.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.planndesign.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/portfolio.jpg" alt="architecture portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
Image source: <a href="https://www.maxpixel.net/Business-Company-Corporate-Colleagues-Brainstorming-2398556" target="_self">Max Pixel</a>
<ul>
<li>The Employer’s Need </li>
</ul>
Before building a portfolio for a job, figure out what the employer is actually looking for. Investigate a little, add up those attributes to your profile, and prepare a portfolio that best suits the job. This increases your chances to land the desired job.
Also, take a read to <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2939-6-software-and-their-benefits-every-architect-should-know" target="_self">6 Software and Their Benefits Every Architect Should Know</a>
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.planndesign.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/architecture-portfolio.jpg" alt="architecture portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
IMAGE SOURCE: <a href="https://www.maxpixel.net/Business-Presentation-Businesswoman-Dynamic-Board-3139196" target="_self">Max Pixel</a>
<ul>
<li>Avoid Confusion </li>
</ul>
The portfolio should be assembled in a way that it fulfills a purpose. Avoid loading it with irrelevant data and stick to the point. Try adding all the data often confuses the employer. Add the required data and avoid the irrelevant. Consider building up multiple portfolios, each oriented towards a specific purpose in a clearest manner possible.
<img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.planndesign.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/portfolio-clear.jpg" alt="architecture portfolio" style="height: undefined;width: undefined"/>
IMAGE SOURCE: <a href="https://www.maxpixel.net/Magnifying-Glass-Hand-Competence-Experience-2741773" target="_self">Max Pixel</a>
Therefore, building up multiple portfolios that are purpose-oriented is a better option. This avoids chaos and brightens up the chances to land upon the desired job opportunities without creating any chaos or any kind of confusion.
Lastly, take a read of the most <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2937-brilliant-ways-get-recruited-trainee-architect-reputed-firm" target="_self">Brilliant Ways to Get Recruited As A Trainee Architect In A Reputed Firm</a>
And <a href="https://www.planndesign.com/articles/2794-importance-professional-experience-architect" target="_self">Importance Of Professional Experience For An Architect!!</a>

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Building a portfolio is the first step stone when dealing with the commercial world of architecture. Learn what is to be exactly included while building a portfolio, and is it beneficial to build multiple portfolios? Let's check out to know more about it!!

Should you Really Build Multiple Architecture Portfolios

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Brilliant Tips to make a Professional Architecture Portfolio

7 ways to Improve your Portfolio!

Should you Really Build Multiple Architecture Portfolios