A visual encyclopedia of the built world
Architecture, illustrated.
Explore how buildings work, from the whole system to the smallest connection. Turn a model, see through an assembly, and compare the many ways to solve the same problem.
27 entries · 22 interactive studies · A growing reference
Start with one house. Reveal its systems, select a part, and follow it into a detail. Explore the house →
Explore by subject
01Architectural design
Space, use, form and circulation.
3 entriesSite & ground
Soil, terrain, water and foundations.
5 entriesStructures
Loads, members and stable systems.
16 entriesEnvelopes
Walls, roofs, openings and their junctions.
3 entriesBuilding physics
Heat, air, light, sound and moisture.
4 entriesBuilding services
Water, power, heating and ventilation.
4 entriesInteriors
Partitions, finishes and accessible details.
1 entriesConstruction
Assembly, temporary works and sequence.
8 entriesExisting buildings
Diagnosis, repair, strengthening and reuse.
1 entriesRegional construction
Local materials, craft and building traditions.
3 entriesSee the collection and where it is growing →
Building a house, in order
02Follow each stage from the ground up, then compare the 29 decisions along the way in Why this, not that.
The interactive collection
03- 01Cut and fill
- 02Building a house
- 03Building systems
- 04Load path
- 05Columns
- 06Beams
- 07Trusses
- 08Lateral stability
- 09Arches and vaults
- 10Foundation types
- 11Excavation and backfill
- 12Spread footings
- 13Masonry bonding
- 14Platform framing
- 15Roof framing
- 16Truss connections
- 17Trussed rafters
- 18Wall assembly
- 19Stairs
- 20Heating and cooling
- 21Plumbing
- 22Electrical