Sample Download
Curious what you’re getting with your membership?
You can grab a free sample download pack here, and explore a selection of details from our library before you commit.
Our sample pack has been carefully curated to give you the best possible feel for the quality and scope of the resources available in the Detail Library. We’ve selected five of our most popular details, so you can properly explore how the library works before committing.
The sample pack includes all available detail file formats — AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp — allowing you to test compatibility with your own software, understand how the details are set up, and decide with confidence whether a membership is right for you.
Please check your inbox after filling out the form – you should receive the download link shortly.
Included in The Sample Pack
DL133 – Parapet Flat Roof Drainage with Aluminium Outlet and Hopper
DL182 – Beam and Block Ground Floor Detail
DL300 – Slate Roof Flush Eaves Detail Masonry Cavity Wall
MW20 – Masonry Cavity Wall, Door Threshold Detail
MR9 – Roof Light Detail
SL30 – Wheelchair User Dwellings / Wheelchair Adaptable WC
We’ve also included a bonus file from one of our best-loved resources — Part M Bathroom Layouts and Sanitaryware CAD Blocks — provided in Revit format, so you can further explore how our resources can be applied to your own projects.
As always, our team is here to answer any questions you may have, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need any help or clarification.
Please check your inbox after filling out the form – you should receive the download link shortly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What version of CAD will I need?
All of the CAD drawings are AutoCAD 2010. Although the dwg files may be compatible with other programs such as Vectorworks, we cannot guarantee functionality. If you are not sure whether you will be able to view the CAD file, please download a full sample set: Go to Sample Download
What version of Revit will I need?
All core Revit drawings are in version 2019. All Revit drawings published between Jan 2022 and Jan 2026 will be in version 2020. All new Revit drawings published from Jan 2026 are in version 2023. If you are not sure whether you will be able to view the Revit file, please download a full sample set: Go to Sample Download
What version of SketchUp will I need?
As of 1 October 2024 all new SKP details will be versionless, meaning that they are backward compatible with any supported versions (2023, 2024 , 2025 and 2026).
Any existing SketchUp details prior to October 2024 will remain in version 2015.
Do I have to use CAD and SketchUp?
No, you can also get the jpeg and pdf of each detail if you sign up to the Pro plan or purchase individual details. The jpeg and pdf files are for the 2d images only. The 3d details are only visible in the SketchUp files. If you are not sure whether you will be able to open any of the files - please download the full sample pack. Go to Sample Download.
Does the library include the Understanding Architectural Details books by Emma Walshaw?
The Detail Library membership does not include the books themselves, however it includes details from the Residential, Passivhaus and Loft book. It also includes a selection of details from the House Extension Details Book. It does not include details from the Commercial or North American books.
What details are included from the books?
What's the difference between the books and the library?
The books are predominantly aimed at students and new graduates (although people from all across the architectural field do purchase them) - they contain explanatory information along with a selection of details that can also be purchased alongside the book. The details are in CAD and SketchUp.
The Detail Library consists of many of the residential details from the books, but hundreds of other details that we have added. We add new details every month along with useful resources and technical guides. You can purchase one off details, or subscribe for a year to have unlimited access to all of the details, and the new ones we publish.
The Detail Library contains details from:
- Understanding Architectural Details Residential (4th Edition)
- Understanding Passivhaus
- Understanding Loft Conversions
- And some details from Understanding Architectural Details Basements and House Extension Details
The Pro membership provides the details in CAD, SketchUp, and Revit (2D).
Some people like to purchase both the books and a subscription, and if this is of interest we offer a discount to anyone purchasing both.
Can I cancel at any time?
The subscription is for one year access to the library, if you choose to cancel you will still have access to the library until your annual subscription renewal date. You can cancel at any time.
How long will I have access for?
If you sign up to the Lite or Pro plan you will receive access for one year. This will be auto renewed on an annual basis.
If you sign up for Monthly Membership you will receive access for one month, this will be auto renewed on a monthly basis.
14 Day Money back Guarantee
We understand that signing up for an annual subscription is a big decision. If you are not satisfied with the Detail Library, you can send us a message within the first 14 days and we will refund your money. Any refund will be subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Does the subscription renew automatically?
The annual subscription renews automatically every year, and you will get a reminder email before payment is due. The monthly subscription renews automatically every month, and you will get a reminder by email before the payment is due.
How many users can use an account?
Is there a subscription for teams or education institutions?
Are the details relevant in my country?
The details are all based on UK construction methods and standards.
Is it UK construction?
All details are based on UK construction and drawn in metric units. If you decide to sign up to the library from outside of the UK, we cannot guarantee how helpful the details will be for you.
