4. Graphic Layout Guidelines
Use an invisible Grid to align and
organize information
Minimize/control “white
space” (negative space)
Leave a bit of white space border
around the edge of paper
5. Create a Visual Hierarchy:
Main Focal Point – Large image, bold,
intense color or high contrast
Secondary Foci – Medium, clear/crisp
lines, good contrast
Tertiary Information – Smaller, finer
drawings and text with more
information, but less graphic impact
6. Organize information logically
Align related drawings
Orient Floor and Roof Plans to Site
Plan (north in same direction)
Include North Arrows with horizontal
Plans only
Include Graphic Scale Bars with All
Orthographic Drawings
7. Provide a horizontal base
to “sit drawings on”
Titles are always below drawings (w/
few exceptions)
Place north arrows and scale bars
below drawings
Heavy Ground Line/Ground Cut/
Poche on all Elevations & Sections
8. Text Hierarchy:
Project Title – Largest (36 – 108 pts)
OK to use fancy font
Drawing Titles – Medium size (12-36
pts) simple, legible font
Verbal Text & Notes – Small size
(1/8” typical, 8-14 pts); use simple
font , italic or neat hand lettering is
OK
