Elevation

Definition

In the context of drafting and technical drawings, elevation refers to a scaled drawing that depicts the vertical aspects of a structure or design from a specific viewpoint. This representation is crucial for understanding how a space will appear from different angles and is essential for conveying design elements such as height, proportion, and texture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elevations are typically drawn for each side of a building or object to give a complete understanding of its external appearance.
2. Different types of elevations can include front elevation, rear elevation, left elevation, and right elevation, each representing a distinct perspective.
3. Elevation drawings often include details such as windows, doors, and materials, helping builders understand how to execute the design.
4. These drawings are essential for coordinating with other technical drawings like floor plans and sections to ensure accurate construction.
5. Elevations can also indicate the relationship between various architectural elements, such as how the building interacts with its surrounding environment.

Review Questions

• How do elevation drawings contribute to the overall understanding of a building's design?
  • Elevation drawings are crucial because they provide a clear depiction of how a building will look from various sides. They illustrate the vertical relationships between architectural features and allow designers and builders to visualize the final appearance. By including details like windows and materials, elevations help ensure that the design is executed correctly during construction.
• What role do elevations play in the coordination between different types of technical drawings?
  • Elevations serve as a vital link in coordinating different technical drawings such as plan views and section views. They help to clarify spatial relationships and dimensions that may not be fully conveyed in floor plans alone. This coordination ensures that all aspects of the design align, preventing discrepancies during the construction process.
• Evaluate how elevation drawings can influence the choice of materials and construction techniques in architectural design.
  • Elevation drawings significantly influence material choices and construction techniques by visually representing how various elements will interact in terms of aesthetics and functionality. By showing details like textures and finishes, they guide architects in selecting appropriate materials that complement the overall design. Additionally, these drawings can highlight structural considerations that dictate specific construction methods, ensuring both visual appeal and structural integrity are achieved.

Related terms

Plan View: A drawing that shows a structure as if it were viewed from above, providing an overhead perspective of the layout and arrangement of spaces.

Section View: A drawing that illustrates a cut-through slice of a structure, revealing the internal components and construction details in a vertical plane.

Isometric Drawing:

A three-dimensional representation of an object where the three axes appear equally foreshortened, providing a more comprehensive view of the design.