A Sketch of Universal Wisdom

...is noticed to be otherwise than it should be, it remains possible to add, take away, or change things, according to necessity or whim. Likewise, a more exact calculation of expenses can be undertaken when, from such an Outline Sciagraphia: a technical term for a cross-section or architectural profile, the length, width, and height—along with the required Materials, Form, Workers, Tools, and Time—are foreseen. By comparing these with his own resources, the Architect judges whether he can safely undertake the Work. This is done so that what Christ warns of in the parable does not happen to him—that he be mocked by those who might say: This man began to build, and was not able to finish (Luke 14). The biblical reference is to Luke 14:28-30, where Jesus speaks of the cost of discipleship and the importance of planning.

Architects are accustomed to conceive the form of a future work in the mind and express it in a model original: "typo" in three ways. First, in the ground plan original: "in plano", as the foundations are laid; second, in the elevation original: "in fronte," referring to the front view or facade, as it will be seen in the raised walls; and finally, most fully, as all things will hold together through all dimensions, both inside and out.