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Housesketching: Learn to Create Energetic and Expressive Architectural Drawings
Explore creativity while learning how to draw lively, unique sketches of your favorite houses, shops, landmarks, and other buildings. Learning to sketch can be intimidating, especially when drawing subjects like architecture that seem to rely on perfect perspective, straight lines, and complex forms. In Housesketching, artist and instructor Albert Kiefer (Housesketcher) shares his signature techniques that will enable and empower you to abandon perfectionism and learn to sketch and express yourself creatively, like his tens of thousands of students have done. Whether you work in pen and ink and alcohol markers like Albert, or use your favorite medium, you will learn how to create amazingly expressive drawings. From his whimsical linework to his playful use of perspective to his energetic colorwork, Albert’s approach can be applied to any type or style of building—or any subject at all! Housesketching shows how to go beyond representation to create sketches that are evocative, vibrant, and completely unique. With this encouraging guide, you will learn how Find inspiration and choose subjects to sketch—either en plein air or from photos Compose your sketch with placement, contrast, techniques for guiding the eye, and balance Use perspective—but only as much as you need to know!—to create a convincing sketch Make a sketch your own through editing, exaggeration, point of view, and creating a back story Use color and details to finish and embellish your sketches Share your sketches online Fifteen step-by-step projects take you through Albert’s process in detail, so you can sketch alongside him and learn what makes his drawings so dynamic. QR codes link to videos that provide further insight into essential techniques. Whether you’re completely new to sketching, interested in learning to sketch architecture, or looking to draw more expressively and creatively, Housesketching will give you all the tools, inspiration, and encouragement you need.
144 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2024
204 people are currently reading
3086 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 25, 2024
I learned so much from this! The sketches and finished drawings/paintings are phenomenal, and Kiefer breaks down each step for you. He mentions art supplies throughout the book, but if you miss something, all of his recommendations are listed at the end of the book. I love Kiefer’s, and I also think my oldest would be interested in learning how to house sketch. Additionally, the author has added tutorials that you can access by scanning certain pages.
Pick this up in August!
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group-Quarry for an advance copy! I am writing this review voluntarily.
Pick this up in August!
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group-Quarry for an advance copy! I am writing this review voluntarily.
June 18, 2024
In Housesketching, artist Albert Kiefer takes us through his process of how he creates his whimsical, dynamic artworks.
The opening sections of the book cover tools (the preferred ones used by the artist, and why), reference images, perspective, colour and shading, exaggeration of proportions, and how to keep the lines loose. I particularly liked the use of silhouettes and blocking, and the mention of the horizon lines from differing perspectives - they aren't often mentioned in other art books, and they're quite useful inclusions for architecture. The QR code links to tutorials is a nice touch - adding additional detail without cluttering the book.
The second part of the book is all about doing. We are given a reference image to make our own, and a list of the recommended markers (Copic and W&N) to get the desired effects, and then the process is broken down step-by-step, with images, to guide the reader in this way of sketching and colouring.
Finally, we end with sharing one's work - whether on social media, or monetising it, and the recommendations by the author, followed by the all important archiving.
I'm a watercolourist who works mainly with landscapes, so I'm really excited to try the techniques and methods outlined in this book to expand my own artworks.
~ Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~
The opening sections of the book cover tools (the preferred ones used by the artist, and why), reference images, perspective, colour and shading, exaggeration of proportions, and how to keep the lines loose. I particularly liked the use of silhouettes and blocking, and the mention of the horizon lines from differing perspectives - they aren't often mentioned in other art books, and they're quite useful inclusions for architecture. The QR code links to tutorials is a nice touch - adding additional detail without cluttering the book.
The second part of the book is all about doing. We are given a reference image to make our own, and a list of the recommended markers (Copic and W&N) to get the desired effects, and then the process is broken down step-by-step, with images, to guide the reader in this way of sketching and colouring.
Finally, we end with sharing one's work - whether on social media, or monetising it, and the recommendations by the author, followed by the all important archiving.
I'm a watercolourist who works mainly with landscapes, so I'm really excited to try the techniques and methods outlined in this book to expand my own artworks.
~ Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~
August 14, 2024
I am not a sketcher by any stretch of the imagination, but this book had me curious about the sketches featured in it. For someone who is learning to sketch and interested in houses, this book is a lovely way to learn. It is not for a true beginner, but for someone who has an artistic flare and may be learning to pick up another skill or focus for their work. The instructions are very clear and walk through most of the key steps, and what I particularly liked is that, for each example, there is a photo of the inspiration and then the sketch that came of it.
This book is a great addition for anyone who likes to draw houses or landscapes and wants to be more on the architecture side of things; and I also think it would be a great coffee table book for someone to flip through provided it's also available in hardcover or as an oversized.
* I received an ARC via NetGalley.
This book is a great addition for anyone who likes to draw houses or landscapes and wants to be more on the architecture side of things; and I also think it would be a great coffee table book for someone to flip through provided it's also available in hardcover or as an oversized.
* I received an ARC via NetGalley.
August 10, 2024
Book Review: Housesketching by Albert Kiefer
Rating: 4 Stars
I recently had the pleasure of reviewing "Housesketching: Learn to Create Energetic and Expressive Architectural Drawings" by Albert Kiefer, and it was a delight! As someone who loves to sketch—especially architecture—I found this book to be an inspiring guide on how to infuse life and personality into my drawings.
In Housesketching, Kiefer invites us to let go of the rigid standards that often accompany architectural sketches. With his approachable techniques, he encourages us to explore our creativity and sketch the buildings and landmarks that resonate with us. The book is packed with insights on how to create unique and expressive drawings, moving beyond mere representation to capture the essence of our subjects. Whether it’s a quaint house, a bustling shop, or a stunning landmark, Kiefer teaches us how to embrace our style, even if it means stepping away from perfect lines and precision.
What I particularly appreciate about this book is its accessibility. Kiefer breaks down each step, making it easy for anyone—whether a complete beginner or someone looking to enhance their skills—to follow along. He even provides a list of recommended art supplies, which I found incredibly helpful. The fifteen step-by-step projects are engaging and allow readers to sketch alongside him, making the learning process interactive and fun.
One of my favorite features is the QR codes scattered throughout the book that link to video tutorials. This added layer of interactivity really helps clarify some of the techniques and gives you a chance to see Kiefer’s methods in action. It’s a great way to enhance your understanding and application of the concepts he discusses.
As I sat outside sketching my surroundings, I felt a wave of relaxation wash over me. There’s something magical about capturing the world around you on paper, and Kiefer's guidance truly enhances that experience. The sketches and finished drawings featured in the book are not only beautiful but also serve as a wellspring of inspiration.
Overall, I would rate Housesketching a solid four stars. It’s an encouraging guide that equips aspiring artists with the tools they need to sketch energetically and expressively. I'm genuinely excited to try out the techniques outlined in this book and can already feel my passion for sketching architecture growing stronger. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your sketching game while enjoying the process, give this book a shot!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 4 Stars
I recently had the pleasure of reviewing "Housesketching: Learn to Create Energetic and Expressive Architectural Drawings" by Albert Kiefer, and it was a delight! As someone who loves to sketch—especially architecture—I found this book to be an inspiring guide on how to infuse life and personality into my drawings.
In Housesketching, Kiefer invites us to let go of the rigid standards that often accompany architectural sketches. With his approachable techniques, he encourages us to explore our creativity and sketch the buildings and landmarks that resonate with us. The book is packed with insights on how to create unique and expressive drawings, moving beyond mere representation to capture the essence of our subjects. Whether it’s a quaint house, a bustling shop, or a stunning landmark, Kiefer teaches us how to embrace our style, even if it means stepping away from perfect lines and precision.
What I particularly appreciate about this book is its accessibility. Kiefer breaks down each step, making it easy for anyone—whether a complete beginner or someone looking to enhance their skills—to follow along. He even provides a list of recommended art supplies, which I found incredibly helpful. The fifteen step-by-step projects are engaging and allow readers to sketch alongside him, making the learning process interactive and fun.
One of my favorite features is the QR codes scattered throughout the book that link to video tutorials. This added layer of interactivity really helps clarify some of the techniques and gives you a chance to see Kiefer’s methods in action. It’s a great way to enhance your understanding and application of the concepts he discusses.
As I sat outside sketching my surroundings, I felt a wave of relaxation wash over me. There’s something magical about capturing the world around you on paper, and Kiefer's guidance truly enhances that experience. The sketches and finished drawings featured in the book are not only beautiful but also serve as a wellspring of inspiration.
Overall, I would rate Housesketching a solid four stars. It’s an encouraging guide that equips aspiring artists with the tools they need to sketch energetically and expressively. I'm genuinely excited to try out the techniques outlined in this book and can already feel my passion for sketching architecture growing stronger. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your sketching game while enjoying the process, give this book a shot!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
May 31, 2024
𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝗮 𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿, 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗥𝗖. 𝗜 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗹𝘆.
I thought it was time for some art books again, so I downloaded this little gem.
'Light' sketching? ✔️
Architecture? ✔️
The Author (AND Artist) uses a clear, unpretentious language and gives the reader a clear and concise guide through his working process. Stage by Stage he shows and tells what he does and what we, the readers, should look for in case we want to try our hands at sketching houses, too.
While I can’t really sketch (OR draw for that matter), even if my life depended on it, this book had my fingers itching for my pens and papers.
My favourite Process piece of his in this Book, was the one called “Façade with Foliage // Venlo, Netherlands” …I have been to Venlo often and might have even seen this house in RL, though I am not 100% sure.
This gets a loving 9.4/10 Rating!
Rounded up to a full 5 Stars here on GR!
Publishing Date will be the 13'th of August 2024!
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒓𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑭𝒂𝒄̧𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆𝒔.
I thought it was time for some art books again, so I downloaded this little gem.
'Light' sketching? ✔️
Architecture? ✔️
The Author (AND Artist) uses a clear, unpretentious language and gives the reader a clear and concise guide through his working process. Stage by Stage he shows and tells what he does and what we, the readers, should look for in case we want to try our hands at sketching houses, too.
While I can’t really sketch (OR draw for that matter), even if my life depended on it, this book had my fingers itching for my pens and papers.
My favourite Process piece of his in this Book, was the one called “Façade with Foliage // Venlo, Netherlands” …I have been to Venlo often and might have even seen this house in RL, though I am not 100% sure.
This gets a loving 9.4/10 Rating!
Rounded up to a full 5 Stars here on GR!
Publishing Date will be the 13'th of August 2024!
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒓𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑭𝒂𝒄̧𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆𝒔.
August 13, 2024
I recently read a book called "Housesketching" by artist Albert Kiefer. The book covers various aspects of creating whimsical and dynamic artworks, starting with explanations of the artist's preferred tools, reference images, perspective, color and shading techniques, as well as exaggeration of proportions and keeping lines loose. I found the use of silhouettes, blocking, and the mention of horizon lines from different perspectives particularly interesting and useful. The book also includes QR codes linking to tutorials, which I thought was a nice addition.
The second part of the book focuses on practical application. It provides a reference image and a list of recommended markers (Copic and W&N) to achieve the desired effects. The process is broken down step-by-step with accompanying images to guide the reader through the sketching and coloring process.
The book concludes with a section on sharing one's work, whether on social media or monetizing it, along with recommendations from the author and information on archiving.
As a teacher, I'm excited to apply the techniques and methods outlined in this book to enhance my own artwork and teach my students new skills.
The second part of the book focuses on practical application. It provides a reference image and a list of recommended markers (Copic and W&N) to achieve the desired effects. The process is broken down step-by-step with accompanying images to guide the reader through the sketching and coloring process.
The book concludes with a section on sharing one's work, whether on social media or monetizing it, along with recommendations from the author and information on archiving.
As a teacher, I'm excited to apply the techniques and methods outlined in this book to enhance my own artwork and teach my students new skills.
June 2, 2024
I'll admit I was drawn to this book by the prettiness of the cover. I was delighted to read a thoughtfully written guide with beautiful illustrations.
The author writes with authority without it reading as overly simplified, condescending, or 'so easy a caveman can do it'.
I appreciated that in the rundown of the author's preferred supplies, he offers insight into their flaws rather than focusing solely on their positive attributes. He also acknowledges that the tools he lists are what works for him as opposed to assuming everyone will love what he uses.
Sidenote: this book is a hard book to fully appreciated on a device, I firmly believe that a physical copy would lend to a more enjoyable experience.
(Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review)
The author writes with authority without it reading as overly simplified, condescending, or 'so easy a caveman can do it'.
I appreciated that in the rundown of the author's preferred supplies, he offers insight into their flaws rather than focusing solely on their positive attributes. He also acknowledges that the tools he lists are what works for him as opposed to assuming everyone will love what he uses.
Sidenote: this book is a hard book to fully appreciated on a device, I firmly believe that a physical copy would lend to a more enjoyable experience.
(Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review)
July 22, 2024
After decades of telling myself that I’m no good at drawing, I’m discovering that when I let go of perfection, there’s very little I enjoy more than drawing.
Housesketching will pull you in even if you have no interest in learning more about this skill. The sketches themselves are full of personality and color. The author clearly delights in this art form, and his phrasing invites you into that joy. Art is fun, not fussy, throughout the book. It’s the equivalent of receiving a warm invitation to give housesketching a try.
I can’t say my outcomes compare, but I gave a few examples a shot. I had a great time, and I plan to start taking more pictures of buildings during my explorations to try some of my own.
Housesketching will pull you in even if you have no interest in learning more about this skill. The sketches themselves are full of personality and color. The author clearly delights in this art form, and his phrasing invites you into that joy. Art is fun, not fussy, throughout the book. It’s the equivalent of receiving a warm invitation to give housesketching a try.
I can’t say my outcomes compare, but I gave a few examples a shot. I had a great time, and I plan to start taking more pictures of buildings during my explorations to try some of my own.
June 4, 2024
If you like to draw I think you'll like this. If you like to draw buildings, I think you'll love this! I sketch for fun and the tips and tutorials in this book help me make my sketches more complex without being stressful.
I usually sketch the settings of whatever I'm reading, either from memory or from images online, and already I'm getting much better at perspective and colouring following the Albert Kiefer's advice.
Even though I sketch on my iPad, if you prefer to use physical art supplies there is what seems very helpful information on which supplies to invest in and tips for using them, how to achieve the colours you are going for etc.
I usually sketch the settings of whatever I'm reading, either from memory or from images online, and already I'm getting much better at perspective and colouring following the Albert Kiefer's advice.
Even though I sketch on my iPad, if you prefer to use physical art supplies there is what seems very helpful information on which supplies to invest in and tips for using them, how to achieve the colours you are going for etc.
May 30, 2024
Housesketching is a wonderful book that shows you how to sketch and color architecture. I really loved the style of the artwork in Housesketching, it was purposefully messy and chaotic. The buildings looked warmer and more welcoming in this style.
I think the author did a great job explaining what you need to start sketching, taking you through some step-by-step sketches, and even showing you how to digitalize and market your artwork when you have a portfolio.
Thanks to NetGalley, Albert Kiefer, and Quarto Publishing for the chance to read and review!
I think the author did a great job explaining what you need to start sketching, taking you through some step-by-step sketches, and even showing you how to digitalize and market your artwork when you have a portfolio.
Thanks to NetGalley, Albert Kiefer, and Quarto Publishing for the chance to read and review!
November 19, 2024
This paperback book, "Housesketching: Learn to Create Energetic and Expressive Architectural Drawings," by Albert Kiefer was just what I needed to read and learn from.
*I loved the fact one's sketches doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful.
*Shading and adding lighting techniques are explained, which are simple to apply.
* I appreciated the list of supplies in the front and back of the book to choose from.
I'm looking forward to more books written by this author.
*I loved the fact one's sketches doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful.
*Shading and adding lighting techniques are explained, which are simple to apply.
* I appreciated the list of supplies in the front and back of the book to choose from.
I'm looking forward to more books written by this author.
May 27, 2024
I have always been fascinated with architecture, although I don't have the artistic talent to sketch any of it. This book piqued my interest, and I quickly flew through it. I love how the author gives detailed thoughts and advice on how to draw such beautiful sketches.
I might even give it a try!
Thank you for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I might even give it a try!
Thank you for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
January 18, 2025
Love this book!
Such beautiful art. This is a welcome addition to my art library. He shows you how to do the projects step by step. This is exactly what I was looking for to bring atmosphere and a sense of mystery to my grandmothers house paintings. So much character in his artwork.
Such beautiful art. This is a welcome addition to my art library. He shows you how to do the projects step by step. This is exactly what I was looking for to bring atmosphere and a sense of mystery to my grandmothers house paintings. So much character in his artwork.
August 21, 2024
I really liked this book but I didn't have a lot of time to practice with the book.
So I put the book on my wishlist so I can practice more.
And I would love to see the drawings on paper instead of a computer screen.
So I put the book on my wishlist so I can practice more.
And I would love to see the drawings on paper instead of a computer screen.
October 3, 2025
Excellent!
This book is so well planned out and articulated. It is so helpful to understand sketching from an experienced and talented artist. Thank you for the lessons and insights.
This book is so well planned out and articulated. It is so helpful to understand sketching from an experienced and talented artist. Thank you for the lessons and insights.
October 25, 2025
I found this to be a great book for a beginning artist. The material is really inspiring and helpful, so this is a book I would want to keep in my personal collection so that I can come back to it. It's a great book if you enjoy this style of art and want to replicate it.
November 23, 2025
If you already know how to draw, this help you to add real drama to your architectural sketches. It is not a basic drawing primer. It also provides excellent commentary on contemporary sketching and colouring materials.
June 4, 2024
A creative fun guide for doing unique sketches of landmarks, buildings, shops, and homes, with 15 easy-to-follow projects. Made me feel that I could develop my own funky artistic style!
January 1, 2025
Me ha encantado el libro, tiene la explicación de los pasos para realizar cada ilustración muy claros, yo lo he seguido para hacer las ilustraciones en acuarela y tinta.
May 23, 2025
Not a how-to, but a visual inspiration!
October 21, 2025
Beautiful book with several loose and colourful illustrations of houses, explanations of the artist’s method and several video demonstrations.
August 5, 2024
Good inspiration for those wanting to explore sketching. He focuses on being creative and not perfect which will be good for beginners.
July 17, 2024
4.5 rounded up.
This was a wonderful illustration course from Kiefer, showing mainly how to reproduce his style, but in the process encouraging the reader and showing them how to develop their own. I enjoyed lessons on things like perspective, value, how much detail to put in and how much to leave out, colour, and more.
Although Kiefer draws on paper using markers, I tried out these techniques in Procreate, and that worked out fine. QR codes are available throughout the book linking to process videos, and making this a very comprehensive set of lessons.
Many thanks to NetGalley and to Quarry Books for early access.
This was a wonderful illustration course from Kiefer, showing mainly how to reproduce his style, but in the process encouraging the reader and showing them how to develop their own. I enjoyed lessons on things like perspective, value, how much detail to put in and how much to leave out, colour, and more.
Although Kiefer draws on paper using markers, I tried out these techniques in Procreate, and that worked out fine. QR codes are available throughout the book linking to process videos, and making this a very comprehensive set of lessons.
Many thanks to NetGalley and to Quarry Books for early access.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews