Unpacking Temporality through Drawing

A contribution in Architectural Affordances – Typologies of Umbau
by Francesca Serazanetti / Maike Gold (pp. 16-19)

In this contribution, we explore the concept of drawing as not just a means of representation, but also as a temporal practice that shapes architectural thinking. We distinguish three dimensions: drawing as a time-based process involving iterations, corrections and overlays; drawing as a means of depicting time in architecture, such as construction phases, material ageing and shifting contexts; and drawing as a medium that shapes temporal perception by bridging past references, present decisions and future possibilities. We also consider the limitations of conventional orthographic projection in capturing change and discuss more sequential and dynamic modes of representation. By understanding drawing as a process rather than a product, we argue that design approaches can be grounded in transformation, adaptation, and reuse.