About Archtoolbox

Technical Reference

Archtoolbox started as an online technical reference for architects and interior designers. It makes your life easier by hosting detailed articles about the building systems and materials used in architecture and construction projects. 

The website was born after my co-workers and I started keeping a binder of information that we didn’t commit to memory, but that we routinely looked up. We each had our own three-ring binder and we would swap data sheets that we picked up at seminars or lunch-and-learns. We had sheets for in-wall plumbing fixture dimensions, door swing/handing, and duct shaft layouts. Many of the sheets were illegible because they were fifth or sixth-generation copies. I thought this was the kind of information that should be made available to all architects in a searchable digital version.

Not to mention that everyone still used Architectural Graphic Standards, the famous hardcover book that you may see collecting dust in your office. Websites offer so much more than a hardcover book can and they can be updated when new information becomes available.

Professional Practice Reference

Building from the technical reference, I set out to provide information about managing architecture projects and the process for realizing a building from ground up. Articles focus on everything from project planning, team planning, client management, team building, project finances, and more.

Since Archtoolbox is all about YOU, it only makes sense that it also helps you meet your career goals. The website covers credentials, compensation, portfolio and resume tips, and general career growth.

Wiley no longer publishes The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, but that’s OK. Archtoolbox has you covered.

Who Is Responsible for Archtoolbox?

My name is Michael Noll and I founded Archtoolbox.com in April 2009. I am an architect in Boston, Massachusetts with a passion for understanding how the elements of a building come together to form a working whole. I spent 15 years working at various positions in different architecture firms and in 2016 I shifted to become an Owner’s Rep so I know both the architecture and client sides of a project. You can follow me on LinkedIn.

Editorial Guidelines

I strive to provide reliable and accurate information. It is critical that you can trust a reference because the health, safety, and welfare of the general public depends on your skill and knowledge.

Articles are written by people with experience in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. As editor, I fact check them for accuracy. Articles are regularly reviewed after publication to make sure they are correct and complete.

While I do have affiliate relationships with some of the providers of recommended products, all of their course material is reviewed prior to suggesting them so that I am comfortable that you will get the value you deserve. For more information, please review the Terms of Service.

The Future

As you can see, I have some lofty goals and Archtoolbox is not there yet. There is a lot of work needed to become The Architect’s Reference, but I hope you agree that this is a good start!

Thanks for coming and remember, this is YOUR reference so please let me know if there is anything that would help you out.

Archtoolbox is wholly owned by Aggregate Digital LLC.