U

Login

COURSE LENGTH
Reading time: 1hr (plus attachments)
COST  
$50 (inc. GST)

What you get

A. COURSE

Concise, easy to understand written format full of explanatory images, diagrams, and helpful links.

B. SUPPORTING ATTACHMENTS 

Material and product options to help you find what you need. For each material, I cover the standard choice, what I prefer to use and why, and eco-friendly alternatives. There’s a cost guide, important technical pros and cons and design tips. Plus I give you professional template schedule documents to help you organise your selections

  • Exterior Materials – Options
  • Exterior Materials Schedule – Template
  • Paint and Clear Finishes  – Options
  • Paint Colours and Finishes Schedule – Template
AACA
Performance Criteria for Graduates

This course addresses the following Performance Criteria from the 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects:

PC25 History and Theory of Architecture Be able to draw on knowledge from the history and theory of architecture as part of preliminary design research and when developing the conceptual design.
PC39 Material Selections / Structural and Construction Systems Understand how the integration of material selection, structural and construction systems impacts on design outcomes.
PC45 Quality and Performance Standards Understand processes for selecting materials, finishes, fittings, components and systems, based on consideration of quality and performance standards, the impact on Country and the environment, and the whole life carbon impact of the project.

Introduction

Architectural design is a wholistic process.

The best homes aren’t designed from the “inside out,” where the exterior is just a random byproduct of the floor plan. Instead, great design happens when the floor plan and the 3D form are developed in tandem.

While mastering this skill takes years, I’m sharing what I’ve learned over the last 20 years to give you a head start. In this course, we move beyond the initial concept to refine your home’s exterior so it looks fantastic, performs in your climate, and adds real value.

Key Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will understand how to:

  • Use 3D Thinking: Move beyond 2D layouts to create a cohesive, balanced 3D form.
  • Apply Climate-Led Design: Utilize elevation strategies that enhance thermal comfort and energy efficiency.
  • Source Materials with Confidence: Ideas on high-quality, local, and eco-friendly products that are both low-maintenance and cost-effective.

 

COURSE PREREQUISITES

Have your draft concept plans drawn on to the computer (or by hand) and the following drawings printed to scale.

  • Site Plan (1:100 scale or 1:200 scale)
  • Floor Plans and roof plan (1:100 scale)
  • All Elevations (1:100 scale)

COURSE CONTENT

STEP A: DESIGN

  • 1. Elevation Design Principles: The ‘why’ behind successful design and strategies to improve your home’s curb appeal and visual character.
  • 2. The Exterior Design Process: The professional workflow used to refine draft plans and conceptual 3D form into carefully resolved architectural elevations.

STEP B: SELECTING MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS

  • 3. Selection Strategy: The logistics of how and when to choose materials to prevent project delays.
  • 4. Doors & Windows: The critical information you need to know about frames, sizing, and security.
  • 5. Exterior Materials: Navigating Australian material options focusing on durability, low-toxicity, and affordability.
  • 6. Paint & Finishes: Pro advice on selecting colours and timber finishes (plus where to find free expert help

Reviews

Reviews

    Be the first to review “8. Exterior Design”
    Purchase the
    course &
    View Cart Checkout Continue Shopping