Entering architecture school is an exciting, although very challenging, journey filled with endless creative possibilities, but it also comes with a list of necessary equipment that can be quite daunting to navigate in terms of quantity and cost. While it’s crucial to have the right tools to thrive in your first year as an architecture student, there are also some clever hacks to save money without compromising on quality. In this guide, I’ll break down the essential equipment and offer some cost-effective alternatives.

The Must-Have Equipment

Drawing Supplies

Drawing Paper: Invest in high-quality drawing paper, typically A3 or A4 size (although A5 can definitely be enough in some situations), suitable for sketching, drafting, and rendering. In fact, I find it useful to have a variety of different sizes at your disposal for all your various needs. I have A5 all the way up to A2!

Drafting Pencils: Getting a set a of different grades (eg. 2H, HB, 2B, 4B) for various drawing tasks. While I personally use an 0.5mm mechanical pencil for my generic sketching, having different grades of pencils for drafting work is extremely advantageous.

Erasers and Sharpeners: Quality erasers and sharpeners are essential for precise work.

Rulers and Scales: Purchase a selection of rulers, including a T-Square and a variety of scaled rulers as well. I personally own metal rulers because they don’t get damaged as easily as wood or plastic and are a lot sturdier. I also have different sizes of rulers including 15cm, 30cm and 40cm for different needs. I have never found a 40cm T-Square useful so a normal 30cm T-Square should do you just fine.

Model Making Tools

Precision Knife: A sharp, precision knife to cut card or foam board is essential. You can never have too many. I would recommend buying one with replaceable blades to save money (and the environment).

Cutting Mat: Protecting your work surface is a must and by having a cutting mat, you’ll also extend the life of your blades.

Glue and Adhesives: Invest in good-quality glue. I personally use a range of different types of glues depending on the work I’m doing. I have quick dry adhesive glue, PVA glue, glue tapes, and a hot glue gun.

Storage and Organisation

Storage Solutions: Invest in boxes, drawers, and folders to keep your work organised. I use labelled containers stacked on a bookshelf to organise my supplies as well as a box for my modelling supplies in the rooms wardrobe.

The Equipment They Say You Need But Probably Don’t

Okay in the 6 years I’ve studied, these items I don’t think I used once. They are certainly optional but I do happen to own them as I bought them in my first year thinking they were essential. 

Architectural Triangles: While they can help for accurate hand drafting, I’ve found that a T-Square was more useful for what I needed them for.

Architectural Compass: Drawing circles and arcs are really useful in architectural design – I once designed a circle building and found a curved ruler was infinitely more helpful than the compass.

Portfolio Case: This is a tricky one. Do I think you should maybe have one sure? But realistically your portfolio is going to be digital in 2023 so access to a portfolio case isn’t particularly important. What IS important is having somewhere to store and transport your physical work to and from campus.

Money-Saving Hacks

Now I’ve covered the essentials of equipment, let’s discuss some money-saving tips and strategies to help you navigate the costs of studying architecture.

Consider Off-Brand Supplies

Not all branded supplies are necessary. In fact, I’m pretty sure I’ve stuck to generic or store-brand for most of my supplies. The only material I wouldn’t consider getting cheaper supplies of is paper. You want good quality paper, especially for your books. Do your research about the paper grain and quality of paper you need and make sure to get that.

Discoutns and Student Offers

A lot of art supply stores will offer student discounts and promotions to help with the costs of studying a creative industry degree. Software providers will also usually have student deals to reduce fees.

Maintenance and Care

Take good care of your equipment to make it last longer. Regularly clean your tools and replace blades or parts as needed.

Remember, while saving money is important, quality and functionality should not be sacrificed. It’s worth investing in the key items that will directly impact your education and future career. As you progress in your architectural studies, you can gradually expand your collection of equipment based on your specific interests and needs.

Architecture school is a challenging but rewarding journey, and having the right equipment is essential. By following these tips and hacks, you can manage the financial burden while still equipping yourself for success in your first year and beyond. Happy designing!