The Archi- bit of Archistory

The Site visit

Once an Archistory order is placed we need to visit the house and meet the owners. We always bring along several examples of completed commissions mounted and framed for you to see. This will help you to decide on the final layout and size of the finished Archistory. Early on, we discuss which aspect of the house should be drawn. The side of a house facing the road, for example, may not necessarily be the most architecturally attractive or interesting aspect. The finer points of what should be included in the drawing are also discussed. Modern equipment such as TV aerials can be omitted. Alternatively some people want to see the house portrayed exactly as it is.

Measurements

Several hours are then spent on detailed measurement and observational drawing, and a photographic record is made. In order to gather precise dimensional data, we often have to take measurements from within the building, such as the sizes of windows on storeys above the ground floor. With brick buildings, each individual brick course is counted and added together to give the overall height of the building. Our visit also allows us an opportunity to examine the fabric of the property. The construction methods, along with the materials and quality of workmanship involved; all give valuable clues as to the phases of construction and possible dates when work was carried out.

Historical Background

During the site visit, we like to have as detailed discussion as possible about the history of the property. This is detailed in a separate section. It really helps us if you can make available any documents relating to the property, so we can copy them. This is important, not only for their content, but also for their graphic style. Details such as the fonts used on original documents or plans can be reproduced to add to the authenticity of the finished piece. Most Archistories are drawn with a small map or site plan to the side of the architectural elevation drawing. The information for the map can be traced from the deeds if available or from other sources such as local Ordinance Survey maps. The map can show the present layout of the house and surrounding streets, or portray the neighbourhood at the time that the building was constructed. Any copies of legal documents, whether active or simply historical, will always be handled in the strictest confidence and only used specifically as the owner allows.

Back to the drawing board

After all of the data has been gathered work will begin on the drawing and the typographical layout of the text. The optimum size for the finished drawing can be finalised once the amount of text and proportions of the drawing have been ascertained. Other graphic elements are also added to the drawing at this stage, such as a title, a compass to show the orientation of the map, and a scale to indicate the real size of the building. The style and typographical detail of these elements will reflect the architectural style and period of the building. The drawing can be printed up to A1 size (60cm x 85cm), and delivered either framed or unframed as required. You can also decide on the frame type, colour and mount. A commission can be produced from start to finish in a couple of weeks if required. However, at busy times such as the run up to Christmas waiting times may be longer.

Here are a selection of images which show the detail of an Archistory. Please click on a small image for larger view.

Below PDFs of some recent Full Archistory commissions.

The Pavilion, Hampton Court Palace .pdf 750KB
Aldourie Castle .pdf 1.8MB
Broughton Hall.pdf 481KB

Click here to Commission your Full Archistory

 

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e: info@archistory.co.uk