Architecture Terms Glossary
The A43 Architecture team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life, and we understand that sometimes the language we use can feel a bit technical. Don’t worry; we’re here to demystify some common terms you might hear as we embark on this journey together. Think of this as your A43 Architecture glossary.
Schematic Design (SD): This is the initial phase where we explore different design concepts based on your needs and the site. Think of it as the “big idea” stage, with preliminary drawings and layouts to give you a general feel for the project.
Floor Plan: A bird’s- eye view of each level of your building, showing the arrangement of rooms, walls, doors, and windows. This is the map of your future space.
Elevation: This is a view of the exterior of your building from a particular side. It shows the height, width, and architectural features of each facade. Image standing directly in front of your future home- that’s an elevation.
Section: Imagine slicing through your building vertically. A section drawing shows the interior spaces and their relationships, including ceiling heights, floor levels, and structural elements. It helps visualize the inside “layers” of the design.
Building envelope: This refers to the physical barrier between the interior and exterior of your building- the walls, roof, windows, and doors. A well- designed envelope is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort.
MEP: An acronym for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems. This encompasses everything from heating and cooling (HVAC) to lighting and wiring, to water supply and drainage. These are the essential ‘guts’ of your building.
Specifications (specs): Detailed written documents that describe the materials, finishes, and quality standards for your project. This ensures everyone is on the same page regarding what will be used.
Renderings: These are realistic, often 3D, visual representations of your proposed building. They help you visualize the finished product before construction even starts. Think of them as a sneak peek into your future space.
These terms are just a starting point, and we know questions will naturally arise throughout the process. To us, no question is a dumb one, and we welcome the opportunity to explain or clarify terms as we work together. We want you to feel informed every step of the way.
We are excited to build your vision together. A43 Architecture: (307) 249-8650.