Poche
The term poche (or poche’ in French) refers to areas on architectural drawings that are filled, hatched or shaded to indicate that they slice through a component (generally, but not always solid), such as a column, beam, floor and so on. This technique is typically used to simplify and clarify sections or plans cut through buildings or other assets, helping distinguish between occupiable space and non-occupiable or solid areas.
The word is derived from from the French past participle of ‘pocher’, meaning to sketch roughly.
Recesses in solid walls may be referred to as poche’ spaces.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.
Recognition, influence and growth
SocEnv identifies three strategic pillars in new strategy to 2045.
Discover the future of roofing, cladding and insulation.
New guidance for professional practice, cultural change and regulation in social housing.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.


















