Poche

Poche

Poche is an architectural term that refers to the technique of thickening or hollowing out walls, columns, or other structural elements to create functional spaces or aesthetic effects. The term is derived from the French word poche, meaning pocket. In architectural drawings, poche is often represented by filling in the thickened elements with a solid color or hatching pattern, making them visually distinct from the surrounding spaces. This technique has been used throughout architectural history, particularly in Baroque and Neoclassical styles, to create a sense of depth, hierarchy, and spatial complexity within buildings. Poche can serve various purposes, such as concealing mechanical systems, housing staircases or storage areas, or simply adding visual weight to certain elements. It can also be used to create a play of light and shadow, emphasizing the sculptural qualities of architectural forms. The use of poche allows architects to manipulate the perceived thickness of walls and other elements, creating a rich interplay between solid and void, mass and space. This technique contributes to the overall composition and experience of a building, influencing how users navigate and perceive the built environment.

Architectural drawing, Baroque, Neoclassical, spatial complexity, visual weight, light and shadow, sculptural

— John Armstrong

CITATION : "John Armstrong. 'Poche.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/poche?E=433135 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"