How to Make an Architecture Portfolio Template in InDesign

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through creating a clean and stylish architecture portfolio template using Adobe InDesign. This template emphasizes imagery and geometry, making it suitable for architectural work but adaptable for various brochure design scenarios.

Step 1: Create a New Document

• Open Adobe InDesign.
• Select File > New > Document.
• Set your document size (e.g., A4 or letter size).
• Choose the number of pages and ensure you select the option for facing pages if creating a booklet.

Step 2: Work with Pages and Parent Pages

• Navigate to the Pages panel.
• Create a parent page that will serve as a template for other pages.
• Add elements like headers, footers, or guides that you want to appear on every page.

Step 3: Design a Two-Page Spread

• Select the two pages you want to design.
• Use the Rectangle Tool to create space for images and text.
• Ensure alignment and spacing are consistent to maintain a clean layout.

Step 4: Add Guides

• Go to View > Grids & Guides > Show Guides.
• Drag guides from the rulers to your pages for alignment.
• Use guides to help position images and text precisely.

Step 5: Add Text

• Select the Type Tool and draw a text box where you want to add content.
• Choose a suitable font (e.g., Preface Sans Serif) and adjust the size, leading, and alignment.
• Keep text concise to enhance readability.

Step 6: Use the Line Tool

• Select the Line Tool to create dividers or accents.
• Draw lines between sections to improve visual organization.
• Adjust the stroke weight and color as needed.

Step 7: Insert Page Numbers

• Create a text box on the parent page.
• Use the Type > Insert Special Character > Markers > Current Page Number to automatically number pages.
• Style the page numbers as desired.

Step 8: Insert Images

• Go to File > Place and select your images.
• Click to place the images in your designated frames.
• Ensure images are high resolution to maintain quality in print.

Step 9: Create Additional Pages

• Duplicate your designed pages as needed.
• Adjust the content and images for each new page while keeping the overall design consistent.

Step 10: Apply Parent Pages

• In the Pages panel, drag the parent page onto the pages you want to apply it to.
• This ensures that any updates to the parent page automatically reflect on the child pages.

Step 11: Customize Portfolio Pages

• Adjust layouts for different pages based on your content needs.
• Consider varying the design slightly to keep the viewer's interest.

Step 12: Create the Front Cover

• Design the front cover by incorporating standout images and titles.
• Use larger text and graphics to make it visually appealing.

Step 13: Create the Back Cover

• Similar to the front cover, include contact information or a simple design that complements the front.
• Keep it clean and professional.

Step 14: View the Complete Portfolio

• Use the Preview Mode to see how your portfolio looks without guides and margins.
• Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a polished final product.

Step 15: Save Your InDesign Template

• Go to File > Save As.
• Choose the InDesign template format (*.indt) to keep your original document intact for future use.

Conclusion

You've successfully created an architecture portfolio template in InDesign. This template can now be customized for your specific projects or reused for future portfolios. Experiment with different layouts and styles to best showcase your work.