First in Architecture

First in Architecture is an online learning platform that helps architecture students and professionals build practical, technical knowledge they can apply straight away. Founded by Emma Walshaw, it began as a small blog sharing study tips and grew into a wide resource hub covering the design process, construction detailing, building fabric and sustainable design.

The platform publishes a new blog article each week and offers downloadable guides, technical resources and CAD blocks, alongside a growing collection of construction detailing books and a dedicated Detail Library. Topics range from site analysis and concept development to U-values, standard brick sizes and Passivhaus detailing, giving students and practitioners a clear reference when technical detail starts to feel opaque.

First in Architecture reflects Emma Walshaw's own route through the profession, from working in and around practice to running the platform full time, and its focus stays fixed on making complex construction and design information easier to understand and quicker to use.