Architecture paper sizes
A series paper sizes
‘A series’ are metric paper sizes defined by the ISO 216 standard.
The A-series paper sizes
Approximate size in inches
*Approximate size in inches
Oversized pages
There are some oversized variations of the A series paper sizes. Before borderless printing became common, these oversized sheets allowed you to print a full-bleed page, which could then be cropped down to a standard size.
*Approximate size in inches
Relationship between A series sizes
Many A series paper sizes are almost twice the size of the previous size. For example, A4 (210mm x 297mm) is half the size of A3 (297mm x 420mm), which is half the size of A2 (420mm x 594mm). However, this rule does not apply perfectly to all of the A series; for example, A1 (594mm x 841mm) is not exactly double the size of A2 (420mm x 594mm) – so it’s always best to check
Standard architecture paper sizes
The most common architectural paper sizes are A3, A2, and A1. Even if your work is not printed, it’s important to use a suitable paper size, especially when producing scale drawings. A digital PDF will still require a standard size, such as A3.
Architectural paper sizes are used for drawings, portfolios, presentations, and renders. The size of the paper can influence your choice of font size, layout spacing, and image resolution. Keeping the page size in mind ensures that your digital or printed work looks professional.
While A4 is common for documents, it is typically too small for presenting architectural work.
A5 is a good size for sketchbooks!
Converting between paper sizes
Although A series paper sizes are half as large as the next size up, converting between paper sizes is not as simple as multiplying or dividing by 2.
To convert between paper sizes:
- Select the long edge measurement of the two paper sizes.
For example, when converting from A4 to A3, the long edge measurements are 297mm and 420mm. - Divide the size you want by the size you have.
If you want to convert an A4 page to A3, divide the long-edge measurement of A3 (420mm) by the long-edge measurement of A4 (297mm):
420 / 297 = 1.41 - You can then print your A4 page at 141% scale to convert it to A3.
Scale factor for reduction is to divide the longer edge of the smaller size by the longer edge of the larger size (or shorter edge of smaller size by shorter edge or larger size).
Architects often need to change the scale of drawings. For instance, you might have a drawing at 1:100 on A4 but want to scale it to 1:50 on A3. In this case, you must use a scale factor to adjust the drawing rather than just converting the paper size.
Page size for architecture portfolios
Architecture portfolio sizes can vary based on personal preference, industry norms, and university or college requirements. First, determine whether your portfolio is intended for academic submissions or job applications.
YouTube offers plenty of guidance on creating a generic architecture portfolio, often with double pages (double spreads) that can be viewed online. However, these formats are often unsuitable for most architecture students or professionals.
Job application portfolio paper size
For job applications, create a landscape A4 or A3 PDF document. Avoid double-page spreads or wide pages.
- A3 landscape paper size is 297mm in height and 420mm in width.
- A4 landscape paper size is 210mm in height and 297mm in width.
If you prefer to create an A4 portrait version, this is also acceptable.
- A4 portrait paper size is 297mm in height and 210mm in width.
In the US, ANSI B (11 × 17 inches) is a suitable alternative.
Academic portfolio paper size
Your architecture school may have specific requirements, so be sure to follow these. However, as a general rule, A3 landscape, A3+ landscape, or A2 landscape is recommended.
- A3 landscape paper size is 297mm in height and 420mm in width.
- A3+ landscape paper size is 329mm in height and 483mm in width.
- A2 landscape paper size is 420mm in height and 594mm in width.
Paper size for architectural plans
The page size for architectural plans can vary depending on the building being drawn and the layout choices. Traditionally, architects would display multiple plans, sections, and elevations on a single large page, such as A1 or even A0. These could be either hand-drawn or printed using a plotter.
- A0 landscape paper size is 841mm in height and 1189mm in width.
- A1 landscape paper size is 594mm in height and 841mm in width.
Today, the industry often prefers one drawing per page, typically at A3 or A2 size. This shift is partly due to the trend of viewing drawings on-screen rather than in print. Additionally, smaller pages are easier to print.
- A3 landscape paper size is 297mm in height and 420mm in width.
- A2 landscape paper size is 420mm in height and 594mm in width.
US Arch Architectural Paper sizes
America and Canada use their own ANSI standard for architectural paper sizes, known as ARCH sizes.
ARCH C, D, E and E1 are all commonly used.
Arch A 229mm × 305mm 9in × 12in
Arch B 305mm × 457mm 12in × 18in
Arch C 457mm × 610mm 18in × 24in
Arch D 610mm × 914mm 24in × 36in
Arch E 914mm × 1219mm 36in × 48in
Arch E1 762mm × 1067mm 30in × 42in
Arch E2 660mm × 965mm 26in × 38in
Arch E3 686mm × 991mm 27in × 39in
Custom and non-standard paper sizes
There may be situations where non-standard paper sizes are needed. For example, you might want to produce square or extra-wide drawings. This is perfectly acceptable, especially if the majority of your work follows standard sizes, with a few non-standard sizes used where necessary.
