Ask An Architect : How To Read Architectural Plans with Matt Imperato

Learning how to read construction documents, architectural plans, floor plans (or "blue prints") for the first time may make you want to bang your head.

That's where Matt Imperato comes in.

Matt is a gifted, Philadelphia-based architect whose TikTok videos simultaneously take viewers through his home remodeling project and provide entertainingly inventive architectural lessons that may not be for the faint of heart.

You'll just have to follow him to see what I'm talking about

https://www.instagram.com/architect__talk/

"I try to target people like me—those who appreciate a mix of architecture, humor, and maybe a little heavy metal. It's always great to hear it's resonating." says Matt about his career as a full time architect and part time architecture instructor on his social channels.

The Road to Architecture

Imperato got his professional start at his home town Philadelphia University, where he graduated in 2016. He started with K-12 and higher-ed projects before moving to residential work in 2020, just as the pandemic reshaped the industry.

"I've focused on everything from single-family homes to larger-scale multifamily developments," said Imperato. Along the way, he's also renovated houses and built a vibrant online community through social media.

Imperato's engaging content—infused with personality and expertise— is a place where Matt has a "platform to share insights, answer questions, and entertain".

Learning the Language of Plans

A key focus on Matt's content is teaching viewers the importance of understanding architectural plans and how to interpret them. He has even created courses to help homeowners grasp the basics.

"It's like learning a new language," says Matt "But I believe empowering homeowners to make informed decisions is essential. When clients understand the process and trust their team, everything flows more smoothly," he said.

Inspiration in Everyday Surroundings

Imperato environment in Philly shapes his designs, provides content for his channel and gives him ample opportunity to talk about two of his great loves: architecture and the city.

Living in Philadelphia provides a rich tapestry of inspiration—from historic carriage houses to cutting-edge modern structures. "Just walking around my neighborhood, I'm constantly inspired,".

When it comes to his architectural design process, "It's about breaking things up visually with facades, materials, and proportions," he explained, emphasizing the importance of creating dynamic and inviting structures.

Heavy Metal Humor as a Gateway to Connection

For Imperato, heavy metal, architecture, and humor all go hand in hand but they are much more than a tool for entertainment; it's a way to make architecture relatable.

"Humor breaks down barriers," he said. "When you make people laugh, they're more likely to engage and be less intimidated about things like floor plans."

Advice for Aspiring Homeowners

Imperato's advice for homeowners was one of the most practical takeaways from my interview with Matt. He stressed the importance of consulting an architect, even if plans are downloaded online.

"Plans are just the starting point," he said. "Architects guide clients through decision-making, help them navigate codes, and ensure the design fits their lifestyle."

Follow Matt (Architect Talk)