In the heart of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, a study is challenging the way we think about the age-old practice of hand-drawing in architecture, with potential ripples extending into the energy sector. Mario Lodeweik Lionar, a researcher from the Department of Architecture and Planning at Universitas Gadjah Mada, has been delving into the relationship between architectural students’ hand-drawing abilities and their design performance. His findings, published in ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur (Journal of Architectural Engineering), suggest that hand-drawing could be more crucial than previously thought, particularly in envisioning and presenting designs.
Lionar’s study, conducted within the undergraduate architecture program at Universitas Gadjah Mada, sheds light on how hand-drawing ability correlates with students’ performance in design studios. The results are nuanced, with correlations varying throughout different stages of the studios. However, one trend stands out: hand-drawing ability seems to play a significant role in studios that emphasize form-space orchestration and design presentation.
“Hand-drawing isn’t just about putting pencil to paper,” Lionar explains. “It’s about spatial understanding, creativity, and communication. These are skills that translate into better design outcomes, and ultimately, more innovative and efficient buildings.”
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? As the world grapples with climate change, the demand for sustainable, energy-efficient buildings is skyrocketing. Architects are at the forefront of this challenge, and their design decisions can significantly impact a building’s energy consumption. Lionar’s research suggests that fostering hand-drawing skills could lead to better design outcomes, potentially resulting in more energy-efficient buildings.
Moreover, as digital tools become increasingly prevalent in architectural practice, there’s a risk of overlooking the value of traditional skills like hand-drawing. Lionar’s study serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of these skills, and it could influence how architecture programs are structured in the future.
The study also opens up avenues for further research. For instance, how do hand-drawing skills translate into real-world architectural practice? And how can these skills be better integrated into the design process to maximize energy efficiency?
As Lionar puts it, “The future of architecture lies in the balance between tradition and innovation. Hand-drawing is a tradition that we should not forget, especially as we strive for more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.”
In an era where technology is often hailed as the panacea for all industries, Lionar’s research is a timely reminder of the enduring value of traditional skills. As the energy sector continues to evolve, so too will the role of architects, and their tools—both old and new.
