Buildings · 3 of 4 · 7 min

A flat elevation

Not every drawing of a building is in perspective. An elevation tells the truth about height, and it is often the drawing you need.

1
No vanishing points
Verticals stay vertical, horizontals stay horizontal. If the building recedes, you have started a perspective by accident.
2
Profile over detail
The outer silhouette and the ground line lead. Windows are thinner. Ornament is thinnest, and only if the big proportions are already right.
3
Align the openings
Heads of windows share a height unless the building says otherwise. Draw the alignment line lightly and let the openings hang from it.

Critique

No accidental perspective
Ground and silhouette outweigh the windows
Window heads share a line
The door is a measured portion of the width, not a dark rectangle guessed at the end

Drill

Guide

Straight on. Heavier profile and ground line, lighter windows. Keep the heads of the openings aligned.