Construction Insights

Blueprints and construction drawings can feel like a foreign language… but they don’t have to!

At Summit Architecture we have twenty years of experience building and designing to help guide you through the process.

Master Blueprints in 3 Steps: 1, Identify views. 2, Decode symbols. 3, Check specs!

Step 1: Identify the Views. Start by spotting the three key views: Floor plans, show the layout from above. Elevations, are the ‘side views’ of walls. Sections, slice through the building to reveal hidden details.

Step 2: Decode the Symbols. Look for symbols like squares for outlets, arcs for doors, and dashed lines for overhead beams. Check the legend—it’s your cheat sheet!

Step 3: Check the Specs. Circled numbers link to material details, and notes tell you exactly what to use—like ‘CMU’ for concrete blocks or ‘GYP’ for drywall.

Repeat these steps, and you’ll go from overwhelmed to in-control!

Want to practice? Grab our free beginner’s guide at SUMMIT architecture dot com.