The 6 principles of two-point perspective in interior sketching

In my previous blog article, I covered the principles of one-point perspective in interior sketching.

Today we will talk about the second most used and popular in architecture and interior drawing — the two-point perspective. It is also referred to as an oblique view since here we are viewing the object, interior, architecture from a corner, we literally see that corner.  

---

So, these 6 principles of two-point perspective in interior sketching are: 

1. All the diagonals in your drawing recede either to one or the other vanishing point.

2. All vertical lines are perpendicular to the horizon line

3. There are no horizontal lines except for the horizon line and the lines of the objects which are precisely at its high

4. The closer the pieces of furniture or decor elements to us, the more details we can see.

5. All objects decrease in size as they recede into the distance.

6. All furniture and other interior design elements along the converging lines (or the lines of convergence) become foreshortened.

“Perspective is the key to what you see in our 3D world. Mastering perspective will improve your sketching skills and make your drawings look professional. ”

— Olga Sorokina

My interior drawing in two-point perspective and oblique view grid from BASE

Resources:

• If you want to dive deeper and become a professional in interior drawing, join my online course BASE.

Read also related blog article: “What is perspective in drawing“.

P.S. My dear Creative, I hope you enjoyed this article, please share it on your social media so more people can learn about perspective drawing. Thanks in advance!

---

"BASE": a Course Which Teaches All the Basic Techniques You Need to Implement Sketching in Your Interior Design Practice

(For Interior Designers & Architects)

---

READ OTHER ARTICLES ON MY BLOG:

© Olga Sorokina, 2020

The 9 principles of one-point perspective in interior sketching

One-point perspective (also referred to as frontal view) appears when we look at the object, interior, building, or street straight on, we face it.

It is the simplest type of perspective since we have only one vanishing point and one of the most used in interior drawing.

---

So, these nine principles of one-point perspective in interior sketching are: 

1. All the lines in your drawing are either horizontal, vertical, or recede to the vanishing point.

2. All horizontal lines are parallel to each other.

3. All vertical lines are parallel to each other.

4. The horizon line runs at your eye level, which is usually 1,5-1,7 m high.

5. All horizontal lines are parallel to the horizon line, and all vertical lines are perpendicular to the horizon line.

6. All diagonal lines to recede to the vanishing point, these are referred to as converging lines.

7. The closer the objects to us, the more details we can see.

8. All objects get smaller and smaller the farther away they are from us.

9. All objects along the converging lines (or the lines of convergence) become foreshortened, and their lines will reach the vanishing point if we prolong them.

“Perspective is the key to what you see in our 3D world. Mastering perspective will improve your sketching skills and make your drawings look professional. ”

— Olga Sorokina

With the last 3 principles, think about the railway: rails will recede to the vanishing point on the horizon line, and the space between sleepers will get smaller as they recede into the distance.

Perspective is the key to what you see in our 3D world. Mastering perspective will improve your sketching skills and make your drawings look professional.

The 9 principles of one-point perspective in interior sketching.

Resources:

• If you want to dive deeper and become a professional in interior drawing, join my online course BASE on Podia.

My interior drawing in one-point perspective and frontal view grid from BASE

Read also related articles on my blog:

“What is perspective in drawing“

“Perspective Drawing Explained: 7 Types of Perspective in Interior Sketching”

“The 6 principles of two-point perspective in interior sketching”

P.S. My dear Creative, I hope you enjoyed this article, please share it on your social media so more people can learn about perspective drawing. Thanks in advance!

© Olga Sorokina

---

"BASE": a Course Which Teaches All the Basic Techniques You Need to Implement Sketching in Your Interior Design Practice

(For Interior Designers & Architects)

---

Read other articles on my blog:

"BEFORE" and "AFTER": interior sketches made by my students (fantastic progress)

Recognizing your progress is essential. At times, it may seem like you're endlessly drawing without seeing improvement in your skill level. However, by comparing two drawings—one from now and one from a year ago—you'll immediately notice the changes. Allow me to showcase a few examples from my students where the results speak volumes. As I love to say: “Practice makes progress“.

---

1 Example

Take a glance at the sketches by my student, Kate, before and after enrolling in my courses. The transformation is remarkable, wouldn't you agree? We witness not only a mastery of perspective but also a skillful depiction of textures and an impressive presentation of interior design ideas. Kate successfully completed BASE and PRO courses at my Online School.

---

2 Example

Similarly, observe the watercolor works of another student, Polina. Post-course completion, Polina's drawings exhibit enhanced detail and professional rendering. Polina diligently completed all of my interior sketching courses, including Watercolur, BASE, PRO, and Textures.

---

3 Example

In the "BEFORE" photo, you'll find Anastasia's very first interior sketch from my perspective challenge. Following her completion of courses in interior sketching (BASE+PRO, Textures) witness the breathtaking "AFTER" result! It's worth noting that Anastasia's professional background lies in land surveying, without any formal training in the arts. Yet, her dedication and the guidance from my courses propelled her into a successful sketch artist.

4 Example

In the "BEFORE" photo, you'll find one of Heather’s very first interior sketches she made before enrolling in my online courses. Following her completion of my online courses in interior sketching BASE, FURNITURE, TEXTURES, PERSPECTIVE, take a look at the the outstanding "AFTER" result! I’m so proud of my students!

“Practice makes progress”

In each of these instances, my students transitioned into full-time freelance sketch artists, securing interior sketch commissions. It's inspiring to note that even with completion of just the "BASE" course, many students began receiving their first sketch commissions. This demonstrates that achieving success in this field is within reach for anyone.

For further inspiration, explore more sketches crafted by my students on Instagram using the hashtag #SorokinaStudents

---

Join hundreds of designers who are currently taking my Interior Sketching course.

"BASE": a Course Which Teaches All the Basic Techniques You Need to Implement Sketching in Your Interior Design Practice

HAVE A QUESTION?

Email me at olga@schoolofsketching.com

---

Read more from my blog:

Theatre Interior Sketching in Procreate: Behind the Scenes of My 2025 Norwegian Project

In this article, I share the behind-the-scenes story of my final 2025 project, interior sketches for a theatre in Norway. I’ll show how I worked from photographs, designed the composition and costumes for the characters, and how Procreate helped me bring the stage atmosphere to life.

---

“My theatre, my whim — and whoever steps inside becomes an actor.”

From Brief to Theatre Sketch

At the end of last year, I completed a project that felt like a quiet but powerful full stop to 2025: a commissioned sketch for a theatre space in Norway. Theatre is an endless source of inspiration for me. A place where space, costume, movement, light, and emotion merge into one living narrative. The moment this new commission from Norway appeared in my inbox, it felt like it had found its way straight to me.

The Brief: Clear Goals, Open Vision

The client reached out after discovering my work on Pinterest. They were preparing a presentation to pitch a real estate property in Oslo, as a potential theatre space. What they needed were not technical drawings or polished renders, but expressive sketches that could help their customer feel the potential of the space. There was no fully formed vision yet. Only a few references, a general direction, and a tight deadline. The brief invited interpretation and suggestion: atmosphere over detail, expression over precision.

Here’s a glimpse of the brief:

The client prepared a PDF presentation that clearly outlined what they needed. What made this commission unique was that they included examples of my own sketches from Pinterest, both fashion and interior, that they loved. From the start, I had a clear sense of the overall vibe they were looking for, which made it exciting and inspiring to start sketching.

Theatre…

Theatre has always been deeply personal for me.

Opera, ballet, dramatic theatre — all of it lives somewhere very close to my heart. Beyond architecture and interiors, I’m endlessly fascinated by the stage, by storytelling, by the moment just before the curtain rises. I even attended acting classes in Auckland, which gave me a deeper understanding of presence, movement, and emotion in space.

One of the most joyful parts of this project was designing the people themselves, their clothing, their posture, their roles within the scene. Because alongside interior sketching, I also work with fashion sketching, and I even teach a beginner fashion sketching course.

For me, this project became a rare three-in-one pleasure:

• sketching interiors,

• developing a spatial concept,

• and drawing elegantly dressed people, each carrying a small story of their own.

Those figures were never just decoration. They were narrative anchors — connecting space, mood, and imagination into one theatrical moment.

So when this project landed on my desk, it felt like a meeting of two worlds: spatial sketching and theatrical emotion.

Working With Real Photographs

An important part of this project was the fact that I wasn’t drawing from imagination alone, the client visited the building together with a professional photographer. After the visit, they sent me a selection of photographs taken from different angles and invited me to choose two perspectives that I felt would work best for the sketches.

Working over real photographs made the process both efficient and grounded. I could rely on accurate proportions, real light conditions, and authentic spatial relationships, while still allowing myself freedom in interpretation, atmosphere, and storytelling. It’s a balance I really enjoy: reality as a base, imagination as a layer.

Initial photos

Working Under Time Pressure

The timeline was tight, but strangely energising. I remember feeling incredibly charged by this assignment. It felt like an ideal project for me, so much freedom, so much trust, and so much space for interpretation. For three days straight, I worked almost non-stop, fully immersed in the process. By the end of the second day, my drawing hand was genuinely sore, but in that satisfying way that tells you you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

During those days, ideas followed me everywhere. I remember cycling through Auckland and thinking about the main colour of the sketch. Theatre interiors often lean into familiar clichés: deep wine reds, dark burgundy, emerald velvet. I consciously chose a different path.

I settled on a warm orange-brown tone, a colour with depth and nobility, but also warmth. I kept thinking about Norway, its cold climate, and how this colour could feel inviting, comforting, and human. It became the emotional backbone of the sketches.

I had to imagine the scenes:

• a lively foyer with elegantly dressed guests waiting for a performance,

• a backstage costume area with actors working behind the scenes

From Composition to Drama

Every sketch, no matter how expressive the final result, starts with structure. In the rough drafts you can clearly see that I began with composition. I treat the space almost like a stage set. I decide where the viewer stands, where the main focus sits, and how the eye moves through the scene.

At this stage, I work like a screenwriter or a theatre director. I assign roles. I decide who is in the foreground, who stays in the background, who becomes the main character, and who quietly supports the story (so much fun!). This is where the drama of the scene is built, long before colour or detail appears.

Only once this visual dramaturgy feels right do I move forward.

Backstage: Rough Sketch

Backstage: Final Sketch

Rough First, Clear Later

I always start rough. The first version of the sketches was intentionally loose and expressive. One scene was fully coloured to establish mood and direction. The second was shared as a line sketch only, a way to test composition, characters, and atmosphere before committing further.

This stage is crucial. It opens a conversation.

The client responded warmly. They loved the overall look and feel, but suggested small, thoughtful adjustments:

• making figures looser and less detailed,

• shifting costumes to feel more theatrical VS fashion,

• adjusting characters to better tell the backstage story,

• and pushing the linework to feel rougher, almost like charcoal (I actually really loved that suggestion!).

This is where sketching becomes collaboration.

What changed between the rough and final versions wasn’t the idea, it was clarity. The sketches became more aligned with the client’s vision while staying expressive and alive. Sketching is about communication, it’s a visual language.

Foyer: Take 1

Foyer: Take 2 (and the final one) with charcoal linework

Why I Use Procreate

Both sketches were created in Procreate. I love it for sketching client commissions because it allows speed, flexibility, and experimentation without losing the hand-drawn feeling.

Working digitally made it possible to:

• test ideas quickly,

• adjust line quality and mood,

• respond to feedback efficiently,

• and work confidently under tight deadlines.

It’s the same workflow I teach in my Interior Drawing in Procreate course.

What This Project Taught Me

This theatre project reminded me why I believe so deeply in hand sketching:

• It turns uncertainty into clarity.

• It allows ideas to exist before decisions are final.

• It helps clients imagine what doesn’t exist yet.

Again, sketching is a language. And sometimes, that language takes you to places you never planned (even to a theatre in Norway).

If you’re curious to learn how to build this kind of visual confidence yourself, my Procreate course is always a good place to start.

Thank you for reading and for being part of this journey.

Olga Sorokina

P.S. If you enjoyed this blog article, please share it with your peers. Thank you in advance!

---

read more from my blog:

Christmas Gift Guide for Creatives: 10+ Inspired Gifts & A Christmas Martini Card You Can Draw

With Christmas around the corner, here is my curated Christmas and New Year gift guide for Creatives…

Every December, I put together a curated Christmas collection: a thoughtful selection of gifts that reflect the values I treasure most in my creative life:
Quality · Style & Aesthetics · Timeless Design · Education

Some of the items in this guide already live in my studio and home. Others are part of my personal wish-list — things I’ve been eyeing for months because they’re truly useful, and beautiful. Together, they form a collection I genuinely stand behind: pieces that support creativity, elevate your space, and inspire you to sketch, learn, and create with more joy.

This curated list is designed for artists, designers, architects, illustrators, photographers, and creatives from all walks of life — anyone who loves drawing, learning, exploring new tools, and surrounding themselves with design-forward objects. I hope you discover something special for yourself or someone artistic in your life 🎄

Olga x

Sketchbooks, Sketchbooks, Sketchbooks…

Trust me, any artist will always be happy to receive a new sketchbook. You can never have too many of them — there’s always room for another one that feels beautiful, stylish, tactile, with paper that inspires you the moment you touch it.

From tiny A6 notebooks for quick location sketches to larger A4 formats for fully developed ideas. Tiny A6 sketchbooks are especially magical: small, light, and fitting right into your palm. If you want to sketch more often (especially on location) start with a little sketchbook. You’ll be amazed at how much more you draw, and how much more joy, presence, and creative awareness it brings into your everyday life. Here are a few of my favourites:

Here are a few I’ve curated for this season:

• (Small) Moleskine Art Collection Pocket Sketchbook & Sketch Album: link (portrait), link (landscape)

• (Medium size, Portrait) Moleskine Art Collection Sketchbook (in various colours): Link

• (Medium, Landscape) Leuchtturm Sketchbook: Link

• (Big one) Canson XL Mixed Media Pad (for markers, watercolour, all things drawing): Link

Books for Creative Minds

Books open new worlds and shape our visual thinking.

• Art history, creativity, design, and artist monographs (a couple of book title ideas you can check in this article on my blog)

• How about Harry Potter Box Set? The Complete Collection: here. You might also like this Golden Snitch bookmark: here

• My book “The SKETCH. Interior Design Drawing” — used in universities worldwide. The perfect gift for interior designers who want to master perspective drawing. Here is the Amazon link, and a PDF book

Workspace & Desk Organization for Creatives

Because structure supports creativity:

• Marker home/organizer — keeps everything visible, tidy, and easy to reach: example

• Pencil case — always handy: example

• Desk tech organizer — to keep that creative chaos a bit more tidy: example

• An easel or portable easel — for studio work or plein-air adventures. Example of portable easel for plein airs

• A big adjustable drawing table — perfect for sitting or standing during long sketching sessions: example

Fineliners & Inking Essentials

Classic, reliable tools that every artist will appreciate:

• Pigma Micron (Set of 6) — archival quality and perfect line control: Link

• STAEDTLER Liners for Sketching (Set of 6) — smooth, clean, and great for daily sketching: Link

• Copic Multiliners (Various Colours) — beautiful and expressive line work: Link

Art Supplies for Watercolour Artists

Well-chosen materials are the best kind of holiday cheer.

Here is one of my must-haves for this holiday season. If you love sketching on location, pleinairs, urban sketching, you will LOVE it:

• Winsor & Newton Pocket Box — lightweight, travel-friendly, and ideal for plein-air and urban sketching. Includes a handy travel brush: Link

• Hahnemühle Watercolour Sketchbook — with good quality 300 g/m2 paper, one of my long-time favourites; I’m ordering a few more for myself: Link

• Escoda Ultimo Brush, Size 10 — my trusted round brush for travel sketching. Soft, responsive, and beautifully made: Link

• Escoda Short-Handled Watercolour Brush Set — for those who take on-location sketching seriously. Comes in a stunning canvas case: Link

Tools & Creative Memberships

For the tech-savvy creative:

• iPad accessories — if you love drawing on an iPad, consider ProBundle from Paperlike. It is the original matte screen protector for creators that feels like you're using real paper when drawing with your Apple Pencil.

• Marker sets — I share my favourite marker sets in this article on my blog: here

• Memberships — Skillshare or Domestika, creative platform where you can learn new great skills

• Online courses — perspective drawing, interior sketching with markers “BASE“, fashion illustration, Procreate, you name it (in my Online School of Sketching you can get a course as a gift option). If you need help choosing the right course, email me at olga@schoolofsketching.com

Simple, Thoughtful Gifts

Sometimes the little things are the most meaningful:

• A gift card to your local or online art supply shop

• A museum shop card

• Skandinavisk “Hygge” mini candle — my absolute favourite, a cozy Scandinavian scent with notes of black tea, mint, dried apples, and baked cinnamon: link

• Roost V3 Laptop Stand — Link, recommended to me years ago by a graphic designer in an Auckland coworking space; it truly improved my posture. And after completing my yoga teacher training, I value it even more for long creative laptop sessions

• Skin Care for Creatives (My La Roche-Posay Favorites) — a duo I love for December-February studio days:
  Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Cream — for deeply nourishing hands and body: link, and
  Thermal Spring Water Mist — to soothe and hydrate skin (and tired eyes) after long hours at the computer: link

• Tickets to The Nutcracker — a beautiful, timeless holiday classic and a magical experience for any art lover…

Final Notes

As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work and the School of Sketching!

If you found this guide helpful, please share it on your social media — it helps my creative business grow, and I appreciate it deeply.

🍸 BONUS: Christmas Martini Card — Live Zoom Replay

Watch on my YouTube: here

Early Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Let this holiday season be filled with creativity and joy for you and yours!

Olga Sorokina xoxo

---

I welcome you to join my Xmas Drawing Challenge on my YouTube:

---

Read more from my blog:

---

check my podcast episodes

(MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS WITH ARCHITECTS, ARTISTS, AND DESIGNERs)

Custom Interior Sketches for Clients: My 3 Case Studies in Procreate

This September, I want to talk about something very practical and exciting: how to turn your sketches into real commissions.

Procreate is an amazing tool not only for practice, but also for professional client work. Over the past few years, I’ve created a number of commissioned sketches entirely in Procreate: from concept drawings to interior design proposals.

In this post, I’d love to share three case studies with you. For each project, I’ll show the line version and the colored version, and explain how the sketches evolved into final results for clients.

---

Case Study 1:

Sketch for a Designer Show House (Dallas, TX)

This commission came from a U.S. client preparing for a Designer Show House. Their request was very specific: “We need the rendering of our room to be more suggestive and less detailed.”

By the time I joined the project, the client already had a fully developed concept package:

• a detailed PDF with the floor plan, furniture layout, and action zones,

• a separate PDF with material selections,

• all furniture and textiles carefully chosen.

My task was not to design, but to translate all this information into a suggestive sketch, one that communicates the atmosphere without overwhelming detail. As always, I began with a line sketch to establish composition and proportions.

Interestingly, this project was also the first time I experimented with coloring in Midjourney. Of course, the final colored version will be fully created by me in Procreate, but I thought you might find it interesting to see some of my Midjourney experiments along the way: watch on my YouTube (3 minute tutorial)

Line version

Color version

---

Case Study 2:

Police Administrative Building Concept (Florida)

The second commission was for a future administrative building of a police station. Since the architecture was still conceptual, the client needed a sketch that would suggest possible solutions.

Here again, I started with a line drawing. Because the building wasn’t yet constructed, we went through several iterations to adjust forms and space. I worked closely with the lead architect, we even had Zoom calls to refine ideas together.

The final colored version provided a clear and expressive visualization of the concept, supporting the architectural vision while keeping the design flexible for further development.

Line version

Color version

---

Case Study 3:

Interior Redesign (Los Angeles)

The third project was especially exciting because I was both the interior designer and the sketch artist.

A client from Los Angeles wanted to completely redecorate their existing interior. I developed a proposal and presented it through sketches in Procreate. The process began with a precise line drawing, followed by a colored version that communicated the atmosphere of the redesigned space.

The client loved the result, and this project actually became a bonus lesson inside my Interior Sketching in Procreate Online Course, where I walk you through the entire process step by step.

Line version

Color version

---

Final Thoughts

Each of these projects demonstrates how powerful Procreate can be for professional sketch commissions. Starting with a line sketch and then moving into a colored visualization not only helps structure the creative process, but also gives clients clarity and confidence in the design.

If you’d like to learn how to create sketches like these, renderings that clients will pay for — my Interior Sketching in Procreate Online Course will guide you through every step.

Inside the course, you’ll discover:

• How to build your interior sketch from scratch

• Line to colour: my techniques for coloring your sketch professionally

• Real client case studies and bonus lessons

Turn your interior sketches into commissions! See program and sketches from the course:

Happy Sketching!

Olga Sorokina

Join my Newsletter here

---

Read more from my blog:

Guide "Top 10 Creative Ways for Architects and Interior Designers to Boost Their Income"

1. Sketch Artist and Commissions: Leverage your artistic skills by offering sketch commissions. You can create custom sketches of architectural designs, interior layouts, or even personalized artwork for clients.

2. 3D Architectural Visualizations: Use your expertise to create high-quality 3D architectural visualizations for real estate developers, builders, or individual clients looking to visualize their projects before construction.

3. Saatchi: Open an online shop on Saatchi, Etsy, or a similar platform, to sell artworks or prints or of your architectural or interior design drawings, creating a passive income stream from your art.

4. Public Speaking: Share your knowledge and experience by speaking at conferences, seminars, or webinars. You can charge speaking fees and even generate income from sponsored talks.

5. 1-on-1 Coaching: Offer personalized coaching services to aspiring architects or interior designers. Provide guidance, portfolio reviews, and career advice to help them succeed in the industry.

6. Group Mentoring/ Masterminds: Organize group mentoring sessions or mastermind groups where you can mentor a small group of individuals collectively. Charge a fee for participation in these exclusive sessions.

7. Online Courses: Create and sell online courses on platforms like Teachable, Udemy, Coursera, or your own website. Share your expertise on topics like interior sketching, architectural design principles, interior design trends, or software tutorials.

8. Admissions Consulting: Assist students in preparing their portfolios and applications for design universities. Many aspiring architects and interior designers seek guidance to secure admissions, and you can charge for your expertise.

9. Freelance Design Work: Take on freelance design projects outside of your regular job. You can work on residential or small commercial projects, helping clients with interior design or architectural planning.

10. Design Blog or YouTube Channel:  Start a design blog or YouTube channel to showcase your work, share design tips, and monetize through ads, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, or merchandise sales.

Remember that success in these endeavors may require some marketing and networking efforts to build a client base or audience. Additionally, staying updated with industry trends and continuously improving your skills will increase your earning potential as an architect or interior designer.

P.S. Please share this article with your friends.

By Olga Sorokina

Contact: olga@schoolofsketching.com

Instagram @schoolofsketching

---

Learn more about my online sketching courses, book, and 1-1 coaching here:

---

Read other articles from my blog:

Top 5 interior design schools in Europe

Where to study interior design in Europe?

In this article, I will cover top 5 design schools to become a professional interior designer.

• Do you want to become an interior designer but have no idea which school to choose?

• Wondering what are the best interior design schools in Europe?

• Do you want to avoid making the wrong choice of school?

• Maybe you are over 25 and have decided to change your life direction?

• Do you dream to make your own conscious choice and follow the path you have always longed for but did not dare (by the way, very often just because of the inability to draw)?

• Are you worried about making the wrong choice of school?

• Wondering what are the most prestigious art schools for interior design?

Keep reading to find all the answers.

---

Interior drawing form one of my online courses, learn more here

I will gladly share my findings on this issue here. I’ve decided to discuss this hot-button topic because a few years ago it also was relevant for me. As many of you know, I moved to Denmark in 2014 and lived there for almost 3 years. One day I got the idea to study for a Ph.D. (this is an analog of our postgraduate studies in Russia) at one of the universities in Copenhagen. In addition, I considered various options of studying in other European cities since in Old Europe everything is relatively close.

In Copenhagen, there is the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, and I was lucky to have there an excursion. I had such an opportunity thanks to my friend’s friend Kai who got there a bachelor's degree in Furniture Design and after 4 years of studying founded his own company where he is successfully engaged in furniture design. I have 6 years of interior design training at Saint Petersburg Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design. So I asked Kai for an excursion around his alma mater. We walked around the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and looked at the classes. At that time I didn’t know for sure whether I wanted to do a postgraduate course in architecture or art history, therefore, so to say, I was testing the waters. The first thing that caught my eye in the Academy was the gigantic white, neutral and huge spaces of the workshops that differed from ours so much (for example, in Saint Petersburg Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design there are luxurious interiors in the eclectic style). On analyzing it, I came to the conclusion that that option wasn’t my cup of tea (but despite it I’d also like to note the excellent equipment from projectors and MacBooks to 3D printers – in general, it applies to all universities in Europe). After the excursion, I began to look for options in England and the Netherlands.

By the way, as a rule, everywhere in Europe you will see exactly such academies of art with similar light and minimalist interiors having lots of air and zero decor (perhaps, Italy and France are the only exceptions). There is an expression “walls can teach” which exactly reflects our Russian universities and above all my Stieglitz Academy since we studied being surrounded by incredible interiors, so all this beauty and harmonious proportions were perceived and stored on a subconscious level. Our academy is just our Russian Hogwarts.

Here is a selection of schools I have kept since 2014:

1. England. Central Saint Martins College of Arts and Design in London / CSM (website)

In England, there is a well-known Central Saint Martins College of Arts and Design. Don’t be afraid of the word “college”, it’s a traditional historical name but, in fact, it’s a university. The College is known mainly in the field of fashion design but interior design is studied there as well. An interesting fact is that even those who study interiors are taught topics related to fashion, for example, the creation of a podium and space for holding fashion houses’ fashion shows, salons, and boutiques, i.e., everything that is about the fashion industry, indeed. It is typical for interior designers who graduate from College to stay in the fashion industry. You may also have noticed that interior designers are often interested in clothing design. Sometimes these professions overlap: fashion designers become engaged in the interior and vice versa. I observe such cases all the time. By the way, lots of Russian furniture and interior designers, whose names are often heard, studied at this London College.

2. France. National School of Fine Arts in Paris / Les Beaux-Arts de Paris (website)

Oh, Paris and its École des Beaux-Arts! It’s a famous and one of the oldest Parisian schools of art. It’s perfect, but the only thing that may cause problems is that students are taught exclusively in French. That’s why I had to reject it at once. Although I do love languages and learn them with pleasure, I speak English, some Danish (I studied Danish for a couple of years when I lived in Copenhagen), a little Spanish and French, but I wasn’t ready to learn the language for another few years to do a Ph.D. course. Sure, it would be great to know the language of the French enlighteners perfectly, but it takes a great deal of time and effort and needs great motivation. For those lucky ones who speak French, this option is undoubtedly perfect.

3. Italy. Marangoni Institute in Milan / Istituto Marangoni (website)

This institution is the largest private Italian school of fashion and design. It’s based in Milan and is known all over the world. Admission to the Marangoni Institute is a unique opportunity for students from all over the world to get a design education within the walls of a world-renowned educational institution, from where such celebrities as Franco Moschino and Domenico Dolce graduated. By the way, in general, in all Italian universities, senior students are taught in English. Marangoni Institute is an exception: the same education program is provided in both Italian and English. It's amazing, isn’t it?

4. Bergen Academy of Art and Design (website)

Talking about the Nordic countries, Bergen Academy of Art and Design is worth mentioning. It’s much larger and more famous than the one in Copenhagen which I was going to enter. The Academy has high standards of education and is quoted all over the world. So if you prefer Northern Europe, you should consider this option.

5. Design Academy Eindhoven (website)

This is a famous Dutch Academy of Design. In comparison with a lot of major cities in Europe, Eindhoven is a tiny town but it has a huge number of world-class universities. In general, the town is quite popular for any field of study. It is astonishing how such a small country has had such an enormous impact on the world of art – it has created pleiads of artists and left a great mark on the history of art. A huge advantage of this Academy is that the education programs are run by renowned modern designers who directly share their experience and professionalism. 

Interior sketch form one of my online courses, learn more here

SOME ASPECTS REGARDING TUITION FEES IN EUROPE

Concerning payment, there are some interesting nuances. In some universities, foreigners may study for free. It is possible, for example, in German universities, even despite the large entry. But all the options I’ve listed here offer paid education and the price varies from 4,000 to 17,000 euros (for the year 2014 when I did this study, now prices may vary).

---

Thank you so much for reading the article!

Do you have something to add to my list? Please let me know in the comments below.

If you enjoyed this article, please share it with your friend.

© Olga Sorokina

Read more from MY BLOG:

Summer School + Drawing Modernism: Sketching the Red & Blue Chair by Gerrit Rietvild (Zoom Replay)

There are objects in design history that go far beyond their functional purpose. They embody an era, reflect its ideology, and become a language through which we understand the past. One such object is the Gerrit Rietveld’s Red and Blue Chair — a striking symbol of modernism and the focal point of our latest live Zoom session.

Watch the Replay

In this Zoom workshop, we explored the historical and cultural context behind the emergence of modernist design. The early 20th century brought radical shifts in art, architecture, and furniture, and this chair, with its clean lines, purposeful geometry, and uncompromising simplicity, reflects it all.

As I often tell my students: this chair is more than a seat, it’s architecture in miniature. A pure example of the modernist principle, “form follows function.”

We discussed how the political, social, and technological changes of the time shaped design thinking. The idea that design should serve life, not decorate it, was at the heart of the modernist movement, and it’s still deeply relevant in today’s interiors.

If you missed the live Zoom session, the full replay is now available. It includes the lecture, and the live sketching demo. Watch it today:

Watch here

Note: This video is time-sensitive and will be available only for the next few weeks. After that, it will be exclusively accessible to students enrolled in:

• Interior Sketching Summer School

• Furniture Drawing Mastery (online course)

A Book I Recommended During the Session

For those of you who love diving into the history of interiors, I mentioned a fantastic reference during the live session:

”A History of Interior Design” by John F. Pile 

You can find it here: https://amzn.to/437ImBb

This is a must-have for interior designers and students who want to deepen their understanding of historical context.

Sketching Materials We Used

Here’s a list of the materials featured in the live demo:

• A pencil (I love using Blackwing https://amzn.to/42ugCp5)

• A ruler

• A few coloured pencils (yellow, black, red & blue)

• A black marker

• A few sheets of paper A4 (Letter size)

Join the Summer School (Starting May 14th!)

My Interior Sketching Summer School is a 5-week immersive online journey into interior sketching, design thinking, and visual storytelling. You’ll develop the skills to sketch interiors with confidence — while drawing inspiration from design history and architecture.

Whether you’re a design student or an experienced interior designer looking to refine your hand-drawing practice, this program will support your growth with step-by-step lessons, a private WhatsApp chat, and personal feedback on your drawings from me.

Start Date: May 14, 2025

Format: Asynchronous lessons + group support

Note: If you’re already my BASE course student, Summer School is available to you at a special price.

New to my courses? You’re welcome to join too — we’d love to have you.

Learn more about Summer School 2025

Questions about Summer School or my online courses?

Simply email me at olga@schoolofsketching.com

Happy Sketching!

Olga Sorokina

These sketches below were created by my students after just one lesson.

Most of them had no prior drawing experience. Some were certain they couldn’t draw at all.

And yet — with structured instruction, a clear method, and the right guidance — they achieved results like this.

This is exactly what we do inside the Interior Sketching Summer School:
Build a strong foundation, develop clarity in perspective, and translate interior spaces into compelling hand-drawn visuals.

If you’ve been wanting to sketch — not casually, but professionally — this program is designed for you.

We start May 14, 2025. Join us.

---

Read more from my blog:

Blog Archive: Read Here

My Procreate Workshop at iPad for Architects and Designers Summit 2025 (IFA25)

I have a secret project that I haven’t told you about yet…

A few months ago, my friend David from Sketch Like an Architect asked me if I was interested in teaching a workshop at the iPad for Architects & Designers Summit this year. Lots of work and behind-the-scenes communications went on for months and now I’m excited to finally let you know that…

… iPad for Architects & Designers is officially open for registration!

Click here to register for free

iPad for Architects & Designers 2025 (IFA for short) is Free 6-day Online Event with 20+ Video Workshops Focused on Helping Design Professionals Make the Most of their iPad.

I’m excited to be one of the 20+ amazing instructors in the event – in my online workshop, I’ll be teaching/sharing with you my behind-the-scenes of making an interior sketch commission in Procreate.

What you’ll learn from my session:

​
+  My full Procreate workflow – from underpainting to final details

+ How to use the right brushes and techniques to create textures like wood, velvet, and reflections

+ Time-saving methods to optimize your process and work faster

+ How to present your sketches professionally for clients

​Check All the 20+ Instructors Here

Oh, and the most important thing… this online event is totally FREE from March 25-30. That’s right, 20 workshops, one week only (March 25-30), all for free!

But, pssss, you have a secret option to enroll today wish you choose a VIP ticket during the registration.​

Can’t wait to see you there!

Olga Sorokina

---

Want to master interior sketching in Procreate from scratch?

Check also my “Interior Drawing in Procreate“ online course:

---

How to Draw Interiors Fast?

If you want to speed up your sketching, here are some of my key tips to help you draw faster without losing quality:

1. Practice Gestural Drawing:

Quick, loose sketches help capture the essence of your subject. I love practicing with live model drawings—it’s a fantastic way to improve speed and fluidity.

2. Master Marker Techniques:

Learn how to use different marker widths. For example, a wide chisel nib is great for covering large areas quickly, while a thin nib is perfect for finer details. Rotate the marker in your hand to create lines with varying thicknesses.

3. Leave White Space:

Don’t feel the need to color every single detail. Leaving white space gives your drawing air and makes it feel more alive. Let your sketch breathe!

4. Use What I Call “Enlivenings” in My Book “The SKETCH. Interior Design Drawing”:

These are quick fine-tuning touches—add accents or a few design objects to bring your sketch to life in seconds.

5. Time Yourself:

Set a time limit. Often, working under pressure forces you into your creative brain, bypassing overthinking. Quick sketching is liberating!

6. Use a Limited Color Palette:

Choose a palette of 3-4 colours and stick with it. Test your colours on a scrap of paper to make sure they work well together—keeping it simple speeds up the process.

Check the bonus tip, watch my today's video on YouTube: click here to watch

In that video, you can see 3 quick sketches I teach how to draw in my brand new lesson in PRO online course.

Learn how to draw interiors like a pro, master advanced sketching techniques, and take your skills to the next level. Check out online course PRO details here: click

Check my blog archive: here

Happy Sketching!
Olga Sorokina

Teaching at Sketching Retreat 2024

...Once upon a time, there was a little girl and a little boy who loved sketching and drawing.

They would sit for hours, sketching everything they saw—from the trees in the park to the cozy corners of their home. Every line they drew told a story, and their imagination knew no bounds.

As they grew older, their passion for sketching deepened. They decided to pursue their dreams and enrolled in architecture school. They honed their skills, mastering the art of design and architecture.

Eventually, they opened their own design firm, where creativity flowed through every project. But as time passed, they became wrapped up in the demands of daily routines, meetings, and client deadlines.

The joy of sketching, which had once sparked their creativity, began to fade. Sketching felt like a distant memory, replaced by endless tasks and schedules. But one day, they realized something important: the magic of sketching still lived within them. It just needed to be brought back to life. And so, they made a vow—to bring the fun and spontaneity of sketching back into their lives and their designs.

Now, it’s time to do the same for you!

Honestly, we, adults, are simply overgrown toddlers. The more I watch creative people in my life (myself included :-) — the more I come to this conclusion. We need fun, we need creativity in our lives.

Join the Sketching Retreat 2024, where we’re putting the fun back into interior design and architecture!

This October, we’re opening the doors to a completely free retreat with over 50 amazing workshops led by top instructors from around the world. I’m truly honored to be teaching one of these sessions, where I’ll show you how to draw interiors quickly using markers.

Let’s rediscover the joy of sketching together!

Here’s the link to join the fun:

I hope you enjoyed my little fairy-tale, my dear Creative :-)

See you on the inside!

Olga Sorokina

---

Read more from my blog:

Interior Sketching Series: A Recap of My 1-,2-,3-Point Perspective Demos

Welcome back to the blog!

Over the past few weeks, we've embarked on an exciting journey through the world of interior sketching. Our three-part series covered essential techniques to help you create stunning interior sketches with confidence and ease.

In case you missed any of the sessions, here's a comprehensive recap of what we learned.

---

Day 1: Understanding 1-Point Perspective

On the first day, we dove into the basics of 1-point perspective with a practical sketching demo focused on a bathroom.

Key Takeaways:

- Vanishing Point: The concept of the vanishing point and how all lines converge towards it.

- Horizon Line: Placing the horizon line correctly to establish the viewer's eye level.

- Drawing a Bathroom: Applying 1-point perspective to sketch a bathroom, emphasizing depth and proportion.

---

Day 2: Mastering 2-Point Perspective

Building on our foundation, day two was dedicated to 2-point perspective with a focus on sketching a dining room.

Key Takeaways:

- Two Vanishing Points: Understanding how to use two vanishing points on the horizon line to draw objects at an angle.

- Drawing a Dining Room: Moving beyond simple shapes to sketch a dining room, capturing its dynamic angles and interior elements.

- Practical Applications: Using 2-point perspective to sketch furniture, room corners, and various interior elements from different viewpoints

---

Day 3: Exploring 3-Point Perspective

Our final session introduced the advanced technique of 3-point perspective with a focus on a wardrobe interior.

Key Takeaways:

- Three Vanishing Points: Adding a third vanishing point, below the horizon line, to create a sense of height and depth.

- Drawing a Wardrobe Interior: Understanding how the addition of the third point distorts the objects, making them appear more three-dimensional.

- Applications: Practical demo of using 3-point perspective to sketch tiny interiors like wardrobes, home offices, etc.

Mastering 3 points allows you to bring a new level of dynamism and drama to your sketches, making them truly stand out.

---

Additional Resources

Materials Used: Sketchbook, Markers and Fineliners

For all days of the series, I used markers and fineliners to create the sketches. These tools are essential for achieving clean lines and vibrant colours in your interior drawings. Here are the Amazon links to the materials I used:

- Markers: I use Sketch&Art Terracotta in the videos, but here is an Amazon set of 60 Colours https://amzn.to/4bu1aLZ

- Sketchbook: I used similar to this one, Hahnemuehle size A5 https://amzn.to/4bt1Elq

- Fineliners: I used Milan Sway fineliner on Day 1 https://amzn.to/3zrs9KZ , for Days 2 and 3 I used a waterproof fineliners from UniPin https://amzn.to/4f9YBBT

Instagram Live Stream: Perspective Drawing

Between Day 2 and Day 3, we had an insightful Instagram live stream where we delved deeper into perspective drawing. We discussed tips and tricks, I answered your questions, and provided additional information on my online course BASE. Watch the replay.

Live Q&A Session: Final Thoughts and BASE Course Introduction

To wrap up the series, we held a live Q&A session on Instagram where I answered your questions and provided further insights into interior sketching. During this session, I also introduced my online course, BASE, which offers comprehensive lessons, community support, and exclusive content designed to take your interior sketching skills to the next level. Watch the Q&A replay here.

Wrapping Up the Three-Part Series

Throughout this series, we've covered the essential perspectives that form the backbone of interior sketching. From the basics of 1-point perspective to the complexity of 3-point perspective, each session built upon the last to enhance your sketching skills.

I hope you found these sessions both informative and inspiring. Sketching interiors is not only a valuable skill for designers but also a rewarding creative outlet. Remember, practice is key! The more you sketch, the more confident and proficient you'll become.

What’s Next?

If you enjoyed this series and want to dive deeper, I invite you to join my online course, BASE. It offers structured lessons, and in-depth exclusive content to help you master interior sketching. Learn more about the course here.

Thank you for following along, and I can’t wait to see the incredible sketches you create! Use the hashtag #SorokinaStudents on Instagram and tag me @schoolofsketching so I can see your drawings.

P.S. Enjoyed the article? Please share it with your creative friend, let’s spread the word about interior sketching together.

© Olga Sorokina, 2024

"BASE": a Course Which Teaches All the Basic Techniques You Need to Implement Sketching in Your Interior Design Practice

(Perfect if you are a novice in drawing interiors, interior designer, id/architecture student)

Interested in the topic of perspective drawing?

You might like to check these articles from my blog:

• Perspective Drawing Explained: 7 Types of Perspective in Interior Sketching

• “The 9 principles of one-point perspective in interior sketching”

• “The 6 principles of two-point perspective in interior sketching”

---

Read more from my blog:

Blog archive: here

Interior Drawing: My 3 Rules of Custom Sketches

Having honed my craft working with esteemed interior designers since 2007, I've distilled three essential rules for custom sketching.

These rules are the product of my experience, offering guidance for success in the custom sketching world.

Let’s dive deeper in this article.

---

Rule #1

The first rule of custom sketching is: "Never draw to order without prepayment".

It is best to draw on prepayment of 100% or 50%. With 100% it's clear, you get paid first, then you start sketching. So your nerves will remain in the most healthy state :-) Of course, the customer in this case needs some proof that you do not disappear, do not leave him and draw everything qualitatively and in time.

Rule #2

The second rule is, "Never draw for someone for free!"

If for someone this rule is not obvious, then know that drawing to order for free/for nothing/for the goodness of your heart/for a portfolio you thereby discredit yourself and other artists. It is interesting to note that when you offer to draw for free, your reputation and professionalism fall in the eyes of the customer. Incredible but true! By the way, I'll tell you in confidence that decent customers try to stay away from such sketchers-altruists, afraid that they may be let down or do not meet expectations for the quality of work and deadlines. For them it looks like just inadequacy, also it is disrespect for their labor, and often themselves from a professional point of view, plus insecurity.

Rule #3

Third rule: "Name a decent price for your sketches".

No sketches for 15 dollars. Customers, who will appear in your life for such a price, most likely, will suck all the energy out of you, you will spend a lot of time/nerves on drawings, plus, you will be constantly asked to redo something, to make new and new changes in the project and in the end, for 15 dollars you will sit for sketches for days on end, without seeing daylight, working non-stop in the equivalent of one or two working weeks of an ordinary person with an average salary. There's a very good English expression for this: "The more they pay - the less they complain”. Your clients are your mirrors, how much you value yourself, your talent and professionalism, the higher your confidence in what you do — the better and more well’ paid your clients will be. Trust me, I learnt that the hard way.

To summarise:

• Rule #1: Never sketch without prepayment to secure compensation and reduce stress.

• Rule #2: Avoid working for free, as it can harm your reputation and professionalism.

• Rule #3: Set fair prices to maintain your energy and professionalism.

Now, if you're eager to delve deeper into the art of interior sketching, I invite you to join my online course on interior drawing. Let's unlock your creative potential and take your skills to new heights. Explore my course “BASE“ and start your journey to becoming a skilled sketch artist today!

P.S. Please share this article with your creative friend.

© Olga Sorokina, 2024

---

"BASE": a Course Which Teaches All the Basic Techniques You Need to Implement Sketching in Your Interior Design Practice

---

Blog archive: here

Perspective Drawing for Beginners: Welcome to My Perspective Series

Welcome to the culmination of our 3-Day Perspective Drawing Series, where we've delved deep into the art of creating depth and dimension on a two-dimensional surface. Over the past three days, we've explored fundamental concepts, practical techniques, and creative applications of perspective drawing.

Let's take a moment to recap the highlights from each day of this journey.

---

Day 1: Perspective Drawing Basics

On Day 1, we laid the foundation for our exploration by diving into Perspective Drawing Basics. We introduced the concept of perspective, the visual illusion that allows us to represent three-dimensional objects on a flat surface. Two crucial types of perspective were unveiled: the frontal view (1-point perspective) and the oblique view (2-point perspective). Through step-by-step demonstrations, we learned how to draw boxes in both 1-point and 2-point perspective, mastering the art of creating depth in our sketches.

Day 2: Mastering Circles in Perspective

Building upon our understanding from Day 1, Day 2 challenged us to tackle the intricate task of drawing circles in perspective. We learned how to overcome common challenges and avoid major mistakes when sketching ellipses, crucial elements for rendering cylindrical objects realistically. Through detailed instructions and hands-on practice, we honed our skills in drawing circles and ellipses, unlocking new possibilities for adding depth and realism to our artwork.

Day 3: Drawing Cylinders in 1-Point Perspective for Interior Design

In our final installment, we ventured into the realm of interior design, exploring how perspective drawing principles can be applied to create immersive spaces. Focusing on drawing cylinders in a 1-point perspective, we discovered techniques for rendering cylindrical objects within architectural contexts. From furniture to decorative elements, we learned how mastering perspective drawing enhances our ability to design and visualize interior spaces with precision and creativity.

Unlock Your Potential with Perspective Drawing

As we conclude our journey, I invite you to continue exploring the endless possibilities of perspective drawing. Whether you're a beginner seeking to master the basics or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills, the principles of perspective offer a gateway to boundless creativity and expression.

Elevate Your Skills with "Perspective Drawing for Interior Design" Course

Ready to take your perspective drawing skills to the next level? Dive deeper into the world of interior design sketching with my online course, "Perspective Drawing for Interior Design." Learn in the most efficient way from someone who has actually done it – me!

In this comprehensive course, I'll guide you through easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions that fit your schedule. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, you'll gain the skills and confidence to win better projects, charge more than your competitors, and elevate your interior design game.

Don't just take my word for it – check out the rave reviews from students who have already enrolled in this course. Join us and unlock your potential with "Perspective Drawing for Interior Design" today!

One of the sketches from the course “Perspective Drawing for Interior Design“

Happy sketching!

P.S. Please share this article with your creative friend who might be interested in perspective drawing.

© Olga Sorokina, 2024

---

Read more from my blog

Check My Blog Archive: here

The Best Fineliners for Interior Sketching: A Comprehensive Overview with Sketch Examples

When it comes to interior sketching, the right tools can make all the difference. As a sketch artist deeply involved in the world of interior design, I've put together a comprehensive overview of the fineliners I swear by.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of fineliners, comparing their performance on different papers, showcasing my interior sketches, and providing a detailed analysis to help you choose the best liner for your artistic endeavors.

---

Why fineliners?

Fineliners are an essential tool for any sketch artist, providing precision and control that can elevate your sketches to a new level. They are ideal for interior sketching – from line precision to ink quality and durability.

For those who prefer visual demonstrations, I've created a video where I compare the fineliners in action. This video will give you a firsthand look at how these artist pens perform and help you make an informed decision. Explore the unique qualities each liner brings to the table and how they contribute to the overall aesthetic of the sketches.

In this video, I'll show how the liners fare on different types of paper – regular paper, marker pad, and thick sketchbook paper. You will see how the choice of paper can significantly impact the outcome of your line. Understanding their performance on various surfaces will help you choose the right artist pen for your preferred sketching environment.

In this video, I also mentioned my 16-Day Instagram 5-Minute Sketch Challenge, here is a quick overview of the sketches I did there: watch

Amazon links

Artistic tools come in various price ranges, and it's essential to find a balance between quality and cost. Here are the Amazon links for your convenience. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Liners that I show in the video (or similar):

(1) Copic Multiliner 0.5:

https://amzn.to/3T03Iuf

(2) Copic Multiliner SP 0.3 (refillable):

https://amzn.to/49c6YcA

(3) Sharpie Pen:

https://amzn.to/3SGVI0J

(4) Pentel 0.5 Liner: 

https://amzn.to/42HRbzJ

(5) Touch Liners (I had this a a set): 

https://amzn.to/49fk1tY

(6) Micron (set in black):

https://amzn.to/48ngCrE

(7) Faber-Castell Artist Pen (raw umber) B:

https://amzn.to/3urp3V8

(8) Faber-Castell Artist Pen (a good set):

https://amzn.to/4bDj3sP

(9) STAEDTLER set (even though I don’t show this liner in the video, I love it and used to use it quite a lot and plan to buy it again):

https://amzn.to/42CFP01

Are you ready to make your own choice?

In conclusion, the world of fineliners offers a myriad of choices, each with its own strengths. Based on my experiences, I recommend those mentioned above as the best fineliners for interior sketching. However, personal preferences play a significant role, so feel free to explore and find the one that resonates with your artistic style.

As you embark on your artistic journey, keep in mind that the right fineliner can be a game-changer. Experiment with different options, share your thoughts, and let the creative process unfold. I hope this overview helps you find the perfect fineliner.

Resources

Download my PDF-list of all the materials I use for interior sketching (markers, paper, etc): here

Read also related articles on my blog:

• “Which Brands and Colours of Markers are the Best Choice for Interior Sketching?”

• “Top 10 factors that affect the cost of an interior sketch” (blog article+link to my live stream)

Please let me know in the comments which liners do you use and if you are happy with them.

Happy sketching!

P.S. Please share this article with your creative friend.

© Olga Sorokina, 2024

---

"BASE": a Course Which Teaches All the Basic Techniques You Need to Implement Sketching in Your Interior Design Practice

---

Read more from my blog

Blog Archive: here

Understanding Positive and Negative Space: Elevate Your Interior Design Drawings

In the dynamic world of interior design, the principles of positive and negative space are akin to the artist's brushstrokes on a canvas, shaping the aesthetic and functional essence of a space. As we delve into the realm of interior design drawing, these fundamental concepts take center stage, serving as the blueprint for creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also harmoniously functional. Let’s dive deeper in this article.

Positive Space: Where Design Comes to Life

In the realm of interior design drawing, positive space constitutes the tangible elements that define and fill a room. Imagine the furniture, fixtures, and decor items—the elements that breathe life into the design. When sketching an interior space, positive space is the canvas upon which the designer articulates their vision, carefully placing each item to create a cohesive and purposeful environment.

Negative Space: The Unspoken Elegance

As the unsung hero of interior design, negative space plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall aesthetic. It's the open floor space, the unoccupied walls, and the areas around and between furniture. In the realm of drawing, it's the blank canvas that allows for the articulation of design, contributing to the sense of openness, flow, and balance within a room.

Strategic Applications in Interior Design Drawing:

1. Furniture Choreography:

   - The arrangement of furniture is a dance between positive and negative space. In your drawings, consider how each piece contributes to both functionality and visual appeal, creating a symphony of form and function.

2. Navigating Traffic:

   - Intelligently managing negative space ensures smooth traffic flow within a room. It's about creating paths that are free from obstruction, fostering a sense of ease and practicality in the design.

3. Harmonious Balance:

   - Achieving the perfect equilibrium between positive and negative space is the key to a visually stunning interior. Striking this balance prevents a space from feeling cluttered or sparse, fostering a sense of visual delight.

4. Artistic Framing:

   - Negative space acts as a framing device, directing attention to architectural features, artwork, or designated focal points. It's the whitespace that enhances the significance of design elements within your interior composition.

5. Visual Comfort:

   - A well-considered distribution of negative space contributes to visual comfort. It ensures that a space is inviting, providing individuals with the freedom to relax and engage with the environment.

6. Spatial Symphony:

   - Mastering the interplay between positive and negative space is the art of spatial planning. It involves not just meeting functional requirements but doing so in a way that captivates the eye and evokes a sense of balance.

In the realm of interior design drawing, understanding the dance between positive and negative space is the hallmark of a skilled designer. Just as a maestro conducts an orchestra, an adept designer orchestrates a symphony of elements on paper, setting the stage for a beautifully realised interior. As you embark on your design journey, let positive and negative space be your guiding notes, creating spaces that are as functional as they are visually captivating.

(Quick note) Elevate Your Gallery Experience:

As you embark on your design journey, consider applying the principles of positive and negative space to your appreciation of art. The next time you visit an art gallery, focus on the negative space in the paintings. Notice how the deliberate use of empty space enhances the impact of the artwork, guiding your gaze and influencing your emotional response. You'll find that this heightened awareness transforms your gallery experience, allowing you to see and appreciate art in a new and enriching light.

Happy sketching!

Olga Sorokina

---

Master drawing furniture with my online course for beginners:

---

Shadows and Light: The Interior Artist's Guide to Mastering Value Study Techniques

In this article, I'd like to underscore the significance of incorporating a value study into your interior drawings.

It's quite common to observe beginners using a pleasing colour palette for their sketches. However, a key aspect often overlooked is the variation in tones. Without a thoughtful value study, the sketch tends to appear flat and lacks the dynamic contrast that brings it to life.

The secret to enhancing your interior sketches lies in mastering the art of value study.

“Sketching teaches us to become very observant, to see nuances.”

— Olga Sorokina

---

A “value study" in drawing refers to the exploration and representation of different shades of light and dark within an artwork. 

When it comes to interior drawing, understanding and effectively depicting values are crucial for creating a sense of depth, lighting, and atmosphere.

Here is a quick guide on how to approach a value study for interior drawing:

• Identify Light Sources:

• Determine the primary light sources within the interior space. This could be sunlight streaming through windows, artificial lighting from lamps, or a combination of both.

• Note how the direction and intensity of light affect different surfaces and objects in the room.

• Define Major Forms:

• Identify the major forms and shapes within the interior, such as furniture, architectural elements, and decorative items.

• Use values to accentuate the three-dimensional qualities of these forms. Consider how light and shadow play across surfaces.

• Establish a Focal Point:

• Decide on a focal point within the interior. This could be a specific area, object, or piece of furniture that you want to draw attention to.

• Use a higher contrast around the focal points or key elements in the foreground, making it stand out within the composition. This not only directs attention but also adds to the perception of depth by making those elements visually prominent.

• Consider Material and Texture:

• Different materials and textures within an interior space will reflect light differently. Pay attention to how values can convey the characteristics of materials, such as the shine of polished surfaces or the softness of fabrics.

• Experiment with variations in shading to depict a variety of textures realistically.

• Balance Light and Shadow:

• Achieve a balance between light and shadow to create a visually appealing composition. Avoid overly bright or dark areas unless intentional for artistic purposes.

• Use mid-tones to connect light and shadow, allowing for smooth transitions and a cohesive overall look.

• Utilize Reflections:

• If there are reflective surfaces like mirrors or glossy furniture, consider how they interact with light sources and surrounding elements. Reflections can enrich your value study.

• Experiment with Different Times of Day:

• If possible, explore how the lighting changes throughout the day. Different times of day can significantly impact the mood and atmosphere of an interior space (think here “Haystacks” by Claude Monet).

• Morning and evening light, for example, may create long shadows and warm tones, while midday light can be brighter and more direct.

• Create Atmosphere:

• Use values to establish the overall atmosphere of the interior. A well-executed value study can convey the mood of the space, whether it's cozy and intimate or spacious and airy.

• Practice Depth and Perspective:

• Use values to emphasize the sense of depth and perspective in the room. As objects or surfaces recede into the background, gradually decrease the intensity of values. Darker values in the foreground will contrast with lighter values in the distance, creating a sense of depth. Emphasize the contrast between light and shadow in the foreground. Remember that objects in the distance often have softer, less defined edges due to atmospheric effects.

• Refine Details:

• Pay attention to details in your interior drawing. Use values to highlight intricate details in furniture, patterns on surfaces, and other elements that contribute to the overall realism of the scene.

Remember that achieving depth and perspective in a value study requires a balance between accurate observation and artistic interpretation. Experimenting with these techniques will help you create interior drawings that not only capture the spatial relationships but also convey a convincing sense of depth through the effective use of values. Observe real interior spaces, study how light interacts with various elements, and practice consistently to enhance your skills in depicting values in interior drawings.

P.S. Hope you enjoyed this article, please share it on your social media so more Creatives can learn about the importance of value study and interior sketching.

© Olga Sorokina, 2024

Drawings from my online course on watercolour techniques in interior sketching. Learn more here

---

Transform your interior drawings with depth and perspective in my online course “Interior Sketching in Watercolour“

---

See my blog archive: click here

Perspective Drawing Explained: 7 Types of Perspective in Interior Sketching

In this article, I'll introduce you to seven exciting perspective techniques that I employ in my interior drawings. From the fundamentals of 1-point and 2-point perspectives to the fusion of 1+2, "distorted" perspectives, and more, discover how each technique can bring depth and uniqueness to your sketches. Join me on this creative journey to the art of perspective drawing.

---

In the world of interior sketching, perspective is the key to bringing your designs to life on paper. Whether you're a budding artist or an experienced designer, mastering different perspective techniques is essential. In this article, we'll explore seven intriguing types of perspective that can add depth, dynamism, and uniqueness to your interior sketches.

(1) One-Point Perspective (Frontal Perspective):

The fundamental technique for interior sketching, that forms the backbone of interior sketching. Here, we have only one vanishing point on the horizon line, but it forms everything. 

Read also related article on my blog for a more in-depth exploration of 1-point perspective:
“The 9 principles of one-point perspective in interior sketching”

---

(2) Two-Point Perspective (Oblique View):

Here we can see two vanishing points on the horizon line, adding an extra dimension of dynamism to your drawings compared to the more static nature of 1-point perspective.

Read also related article on my blog:
“The 6 principles of two-point perspective in interior sketching”.

---

(3) Combined Perspective (1+2):

A fusion of 1-point and 2-point perspectives, with some furniture objects having their own 2-point perspective. In this sketch, you can see a blend of 1-point perspective for the room and 2-point perspective for the objects, in this case, two classic bergere armchairs. What makes this perspective truly captivating is that each chair has its own set of 2 vanishing points. Here, things get intriguing with a total of 5 vanishing points! 

In my online course BASE, I'll guide you step-by-step in drawing this French interior.

---

(4) "Distorted" Perspective:

Some love it for the dynamism it brings, while others find it challenging. It's a unique fusion of one-point and two-point perspective. I find it really profound as it brings a lot of dynamic to the sketch. With "Distorted" Perspective, the back wall (also referred to as the frontal wall at times) takes on a trapezium shape, in contrast to the rectangular form of the back wall in our 1-point perspective (please take a look at my drawing below). This transformation adds an intriguing element of dynamism to your sketches, making it a captivating technique to explore. 

You can learn how to create this captivating effect in my online course PRO.

---

(5) "Elevated" Perspective with Two Vanishing Points:

Ideal for small spaces like bathrooms and home offices, this technique can add a new dimension to your designs. 

Join me in THE CLUB and explore how to create interiors with this perspective.

---

(6) "Elevated" Perspective with Three Vanishing Points:

Take your perspective skills to the next level with three vanishing points, offering even more depth and complexity to your sketches.

Let’s draw this interior together in my online course PRO.

---

(7) Four-Point Perspective:

Think about it as two sets of 2-point perspective.

You can draw this classic oval bench with me in my online course “FURNITURE“.

In my practice, I most often utilise the fundamental 1-point and 2-point perspectives, which form the backbone of interior sketching. Remember, the best way to make good interior sketches by hand is to make a lot of them, quickly and spontaneously, until it becomes natural for you.

To further dive into the art of interior sketching and discover the nuances of these perspective techniques, be sure to check out my 35-minute Instagram live stream where I explore this topic in greater detail: watch here.

DEMYSTIFY PERSPECTIVE DRAWING

Perspective drawing might seem complicated or intimidating, but with my Perspective Drawing for Interior Design course, it becomes fun and easy.

My step-by-step approach ensures you'll finally understand perspective, transforming your sketches and boosting your confidence.

Do you want to master perspective drawing for interior design from scratch?

Welcome to my online course

“Perspective Drawing for Interior Design“

Read also related articles on my blog:

“What is perspective in drawing“

“Perspective Drawing Explained: 7 Types of Perspective in Interior Sketching”

“The 9 principles of one-point perspective in interior sketching”

“The 6 principles of two-point perspective in interior sketching”

P.S. Hope you enjoyed this article, please share it on your social media so more people can learn about perspective drawing and interior sketching.

© Olga Sorokina, 2023

---

See my blog archive: click here