Ultimate Must Haves For Architecture & Interior Design Students

Most Stylish and Essential Tools for Architecture and Interior Design Students. This list consists of things that you will use throughout school and a little extra. I went a little overboard, don’t judge! haha

All products listed are links… happy shopping! 🙂

1. Sketchbook / Planner / Notebook

Surely a must-have tool for architecture and interior design students. A sketchbook is an Architect’s and Architecture student’s best friend. All in all, our sketchbooks are proof of our design process, we start thinking with a pencil and sketchbook.

A Sketchbook is one of the most important tools, which you need to carry every day and everywhere. Make sure to start loving to-do list’s even if you don’t already. (they are our best friends)

2. Drafting / Sketching Pencils

You need pencils to draft and sketch your amazing ideas. Over the years you will explore different mediums to work with but pencils are always needed. Using different grades of a pencil will enhance your sketches. Staedtler is a go-to brand for architects and architecture students when it comes to pencils.

Here are some of my favorites, mechanical and non-mechanical pencils. I’ve also linked some mechanical erasers, you’ll need those too. Trust me I know! haha

3. Liner Pen Set

Architects and Designers require a pen for almost everything they do, from sketching a concept to brainstorming ideas. You can transform any basic sketch into a stunning piece of artwork if you use the right tools. When picking the best architectural pens, precision matters a lot. Because liner pens are used for different line weights they are a must-have when it comes to sketching and drafting drawings.

Again Staedtler becomes a winner, even on colorful paper, the ink’s rich, deep black tone stands out. In addition, the tips produce a smooth, flowing ink that is excellent for coloring, making them one of my favorite sets for sure!

4. Tracing Paper (My Holy Grail)

Given that, tracing papers are used to develop ideas by designers every day, your initial ideas in school should be sketched on tracing paper. In the same way, you can use it to create overlays and understand the different levels developed in the design. For example, when it comes to space planning aka building a floor plan, you need to have tracing paper in hand.

Developing a solid floor plan is not an exact science – yet requires experimenting with multiple concepts until you get it right. I usually start by laying tracing paper over the “as-builts” – and sketch my ideas over the existing plans. This tool will be highly used regardless of your experience level. Additionally, I’ve added some complementary items to your tracing and idea-developing process. Because I’m that cool – Lucky you! ♡

5. Cutting Tools for Model Making

When it comes to model making there are several tools to be used. First, let’s start with your base. Regardless of where you are working at, you’ll need a cutting mat. The grid lines will guide you in the cutting process and it also helps protect the surface below. An x-acto knife set and a handle ruler both will be used to cut your materials; and these could be balsa wood, acrylic, acetate, or foam board. Finally, I added a portable trimmer that’s good enough to cut cardstock. There you have it, I can already see you building your first model!

6. Measuring Tools

Whether you are on a site visit or you need to measure something for drawing reference. These items will serve you well. The tape and measuring laser both will become handy when you are measuring in the field. The scale ruler set can be used not only for drafting but also when you are space planning. Of course, I added the little “architect” bag just cus’ it’s cute.

7. Wireless Headphones / Earphones

Trust me when I say that you will need earphones to focus on your work. You are up against many distractions and these will keep you away from the unwanted noise from your surroundings. I’ve put together the ones I’ve used before and have worked well for me. These are also in a wide price range. The Bang and Olufsen are at the high-end price point – I know! But these are AMAZING, If you are not able to purchase them now, keep them in mind for when you are out of school.

8. My Favorite Gadgets

Without a doubt, as architects and designers we get dainty when it comes to devices that could make our life easier. A wireless mouse is an asset for us, not to mention we spend a lot of time making sure our ideas are transferred into clear drawings. This one is my favorite because is ergonomic and helps avoid wrist discomfort. I also recommend getting a USB-port tower or hub for your devices. I have this Wacom drawing tablet and I use it mostly for digital sketches that will be added to presentations. The stylus pen can be used for the same purpose if you have an iPad or tablet to pair it with.

9. All-Nighter Favorites

But first, let me take a sip of my coffee. If you’ve never heard of a coffee mug warmer, you are missing out. There’s nothing worse than having to drink cold coffee without it being a cold brew. So, if you don’t have one, please do. This memory foam mousepad will take some stress off your hands and that’s important.

As you may already know, you’ll spend most of your time staring at your computer screen and to minimize eye strain I recommend you getting some UV light protection. Also, please stay hydrated! ♡

10. Backpack / Laptop Bag / Carriers

In case you were wondering “Karisa, thank you for such a thoughtful list but where can I fit all of this?” Don’t worry – I got you! For your mouse, USB, and external drive I recommend this black case. It has many different compartments to fit all your smaller gadgets. This drawing tube can be used to store your drawings duh… but also, you can roll up your presentation boards and keep them from getting wet.

Finally, so happy you made it all the way to here. That means you are very serious about schooling and I can appreciate that. This laptop bag can fit a 15″ and has multiple pockets for extra storage. The best for last, this backpack is so wonderful you guys, you can fit everything on this list in here. If you can’t – email me for a refund! haha

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