Tom Kaneko Design & Architecture: Sketch, Design / Build in Practice
Tom Kaneko is an architectural designer and SketchUp ninja specializing in bespoke residential retrofits and extensions in the United Kingdom. In this conversation, we delve into his workflow and how he uses SketchUp to deliver value to his clients within the constraints of a tight budget. For Tom, ‘SketchUp makes the means of design & communication, with client and contractor, one and the same’.
Tell us about your background as an architect and how this influences your approach to design.
Tom’s background is rooted in the technical aspects of architecture. He’s always been drawn to understanding how buildings work and the intricacies of site conditions. During his time at the University of Edinburgh, Tom gained hands-on experience that has proven invaluable in his practice. He believes that a strong technical foundation is essential for a successful designer. Knowledge gaps can quickly become apparent when transitioning from design to construction, especially when communicating with builders and subcontractors.
The “Aha!” Moment with SketchUp
Tom’s breakthrough moment with SketchUp came in 2011 while working on Jemima’s House, a Victorian terraced extension in London. With a limited budget and big design goals, Tom needed to work efficiently. SketchUp allowed him to model the design rapidly and communicate ideas clearly with the client. “We wanted to create an interesting and functional space, using inexpensive materials in a thoughtful way,” Tom explains. This ability to quickly iterate, modify designs, and make changes on the fly was essential. Through the project, he realized SketchUp could go directly from concept design to construction details, reducing reliance on other CAD software.
SketchUp model and photo of completed project showing view from dining area into garden at Jemima’s House, London.
3D details of extension frame construction
Transitioning from Concept to Construction
Tom begins each project with hand-drawn sketches to get the flow of the plan right, keeping the client’s desires and site limitations in mind. At the schematic design stage, he uses an existing building survey to create a SketchUp model. Each floor, wall, and piece of furniture is organized into separate components, making the model flexible for quick changes. He sets up key scenes and sheets early in SketchUp Pro and LayOut, including floor plans, sections, elevations, and perspective views.
As Tom continues with the design, testing ideas for rooflines and space usage is key. For example, he frequently tests the roof pitch to ensure it doesn’t cast negative shadows on neighboring properties. These tests, in both 3D and section views, help him find the best context-appropriate solution.
Once the concept is agreed upon, Tom creates a detailed construction model. The model articulates wall and roof details clearly, allowing builders to understand exactly what’s required. As the project progresses, separate models are created for each stage, ensuring constant refinement. The speed at which changes can be made is a significant benefit—Tom can update sections and views quickly, and LayOut automatically reflects these changes in the final plans.
I’ve found that showing builders assemblies and perspectives in 3D helps them really get behind the design intent. They have a clear understanding of what you’re trying to achieve and why. In my experience, clear information leads to great relationships on the building site. Some really experienced builders on previous projects have told me my construction drawings from LayOut are some of the best details they’ve ever seen!
Simplified Drawing Standards and Style Templates
Tom’s approach to drawing standards is simple and clear. He prefers using an A3 sheet size for LayOut, as it’s easy to view both on-screen and in print. His annotations are in Helvetica, making them legible and easy to read. Tom keeps graphics minimal so that the design itself remains the focal point. He’s developed his own revision clouds and drawing title blocks over time, all designed to maintain simplicity while ensuring clarity.
Early sunlight studies showing the positive impact of a context responsive roof pitch. Shadows cast by the proposal do not negatively impact the neighbouring building.
Image showing construction sequence. Dangan Road Project by Tom Kaneko Design.
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