Presentation is an integral part of an architect’s life. Both practicing architects and students must present their work to clients, stakeholders, and faculty members, graphically and verbally, to convince them of their proposals. The evaluation of a project heavily depends on the presentation. Even a well-executed project will be undervalued if it is not presented properly. Thus, designing your presentation alongside your project is crucial. A successful presentation follows the project’s concept, creating a cohesive story.

There are two parts to a presentation: graphical and verbal. Both are essential in architecture. Graphical presentations include architectural drawings, conceptual sketches, site diagrams, rendered images, and more. Verbal presentations explain these visual elements engagingly, unifying the design process into a single narrative. This article highlights tips to improve both types of presentations, aiming to double audience engagement.

Presentation Poster or Board

• Size and Orientation: Often fixed by your professor, you must adhere to the specified size and confirm whether to present in Landscape or Portrait orientation. Determine if your board serves as a single unit or if each board is individual.
• Layout: Ensure good readability for both text and drawings. A minimal and simple layout with adequate breathing space is essential, avoiding complexity.
• Element Placement: Place elements according to the presentation pathway. Prioritize important elements and place them at the focal points.

Drawings and Rendering

• Background: Maintain consistency with the background, which holds all drawing elements together and reflects the project’s original color. White is often the best choice.
• Color: Use a consistent color scheme that enhances your theme. Carefully choose colors to align with your story and highlight focal elements.
• Visual Focus: Highlight the strongest points of your project through hierarchy, color, scale, and contrast.

Universal Tips for Presentation

• Minimize text on your board, replacing it with graphical elements like icons and symbols.
• Use a maximum of two font types to create a hierarchy with scale and boldness.
• Avoid overcrowding your board to maintain readability.

Verbal Presentation

• Make it Short: Keep your presentation within 5 to 20 minutes to maintain audience concentration.
• Make it Simple: Present complex stories as simply as possible.
• Present Beautifully: Good pronunciation, word choice, and short, clear sentences are key.
• Think About Your Audience: Tailor your script based on your audience’s psychology.
• Practice: Rehearse at least two or three times before the actual presentation, preferably in front of a mirror.

Becoming a good presenter requires effort and stepping out of your comfort zone. Constructive criticism is invaluable. Analyze and record your presentations to identify areas for improvement. This gradual process will enhance your presentation skills, benefiting your future career as an architect.