Architectural Design

Description

In this event, you'll be tasked with designing a building or structure that follows the annual theme, along with submitting a detailed portfolio. If you advance to the semifinals, you’ll also participate in an interview with the judges to explain your design process, architectural decisions, and sustainability features.

You’ll create your design using CAD software such as SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Revit, and may build physical models using materials like foam board, cardboard, or 3D-printed components. Basic knowledge of architectural principles and digital modeling is helpful but not required to get started — this event is beginner-friendly, and there’s a lot to learn along the way in areas like spatial planning, materials selection, and presentation skills.

Submissions for this event are in person and take place during the conference, with a separate deadline for portfolio check-in. You will also be required to participate in an interview with the judges to discuss your design choices and presentation.

1 to 6 people can be on a team!

Find the event rubric here: Event Rubrics & Forms.

2025 - 2026 Theme

A Barndominium for the Biscelliot Family

What to Know?

How to use CAD software and design tools

Programs like SketchUp, AutoCAD, and Revit are beginner-friendly and widely used for architectural design. More advanced teams might explore tools like ArchiCAD or Rhino, but starting with basic CAD skills is perfectly fine.

Basic building and model-making skills

Experience with materials such as foam board, cardboard, wood, or 3D-printed parts will help you create physical models that showcase your design. Knowing how to sketch and prototype your ideas can save time and improve clarity.

Basic knowledge of architectural principles

While not required to win, understanding concepts like spatial layout, structural systems, building codes, and sustainability will help you create a stronger, more realistic design that impresses judges.

What to Submit?

Portfolio (Printed)

Title page (team name, event title, year, conference location)
Table of contents
Design brief or problem statement describing your project goals
Site plan showing building placement and surrounding area
Floor plans detailing room layouts and dimensions
Elevations showing views of each side of the building
Sections or cross-sections illustrating interior structure
3D CAD renderings or digital visualizations of your design
Material and construction methods overview
Sustainability features or energy-efficiency considerations
Work log or timeline of project tasks and milestone
Reflection or self-evaluation discussing challenges and lessons learned
References and sources, if applicable

Physical Model/ Optional Documents

Physical Model
- Built from foam board, cardboard, wood, or 3D-printed parts
- Neatly presented and protected for transport and judging
Optional:
- Digital files of CAD models (USB or upload instructions, if allowed)
- Video walkthrough or animation showcasing your design and key features
- Personal notes or summary sheet to help during your interview

Tools & Resources

Key Parts:

Blueprints – Detailed drawings that guide the construction of your building, including floor plans and elevations.
CAD Software – Programs like SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Revit used to design and model your structure digitally.
Physical Model Materials – Supplies like foam board, cardboard, wood, or 3D-printed parts used to build a scale model.
Structural Frame – The building’s skeleton, including beams, columns, and load-bearing walls that support the entire structure.
Site Plan – A layout showing the building’s placement on the property and its relationship to surrounding features.
Building Materials – Substances like wood, concrete, steel, glass, and insulation used in construction.
Presentation Board – A physical or digital display board that organizes your drawings, renderings, and design notes for judging.

Useful Applications:

SketchUp - Easy-to-learn 3D modeling software perfect for creating architectural designs and quick visualizations.
AutoCAD - Industry-standard CAD software for precise 2D drafting and 3D modeling of architectural plans.
Revit - BIM (Building Information Modeling) software used for detailed architectural design and construction documentation.
Onshape - Cloud-based CAD software with strong collaboration features, useful for designing and sharing models with your team.
Adobe Photoshop - Powerful tool for enhancing renderings, creating presentation boards, and refining architectural visuals.
Adobe Illustrator - Vector graphics software ideal for producing clean diagrams, plans, and graphic layouts for portfolios.
Microsoft PowerPoint - Useful for assembling and presenting your design portfolio and interview slides in a polished format.

Helpful Terminology

Blueprint – A detailed architectural drawing that shows building plans, elevations, and sections.
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) – Software used to create precise digital models and drawings of buildings, such as SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Revit.
Elevation – A flat drawing showing one side or face of a building, including windows, doors, and exterior features.
Floor Plan – A top-down view of the layout of rooms and spaces in a building.
Section – A cutaway drawing that shows the interior structure and relationships between floors and walls.
Scale Model – A physical, smaller version of your architectural design used to visualize form and space.
Sustainability – Design features that reduce environmental impact, such as energy efficiency, natural lighting, or green materials.

Site Plan – A drawing that shows the building location in relation to its surroundings, including landscaping and property boundaries.
Structural System – The framework (like beams, columns, and load-bearing walls) that supports the building.
Renderings – Visual representations, often 3D, that show how your building will look when completed.
Zoning – Local laws that regulate land use, building height, and setbacks in your design area.
Materials – The physical substances (wood, concrete, steel, glass, etc.) used to construct the building.
Portfolio – A comprehensive document containing your drawings, models, design narrative, and reflections on the project.

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