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What is home elevation?

Published in Architectural Design 2 mins read

Home elevation refers to the structure's exterior design, encompassing the views of a building from its front, back, and sides. It is a fundamental term used in architecture and construction to describe the visual appearance and layout of a house's outer shell.

Understanding Home Elevation in Practice

When you embark on the journey of building a new house or undertaking a significant renovation, you will frequently hear contractors and architects use the term "home elevation." This is because elevation drawings are crucial blueprints that depict how the finished structure will look from various angles.

Key Aspects of Home Elevation:

  • Exterior Design Focus: Home elevation specifically pertains to the aesthetic and functional design of a building's outer surfaces. This includes everything from the placement of windows and doors to the chosen siding materials, roof lines, and overall architectural style.
  • Views from All Sides: An elevation drawing provides a flat, two-dimensional view of a building's facade, showing the exact dimensions and details for each side. This means there isn't just one "elevation" for a house, but typically a front elevation, rear elevation, and side elevations (left and right).
  • Design Choices: As highlighted by professionals, home elevation presents homeowners with specific design choices. For instance, an architect might present two distinct exterior concepts for a house, labeling them as "Elevation A" versus "Elevation B." These options would showcase different window styles, porch designs, or material selections, allowing the client to visualize and select their preferred aesthetic. This process is vital for ensuring the final home aligns with the homeowner's vision and preferences.

Understanding home elevation is key to comprehending the visual elements of a building's exterior and collaborating effectively with design and construction professionals.