Portfolio
The work 'portfolio' is thought to be derived from the Italian 'portare' meaning ‘carry’ and 'foglio' menaing ‘leaf’. In this sense, a portfolio is a large, thin, portable case used to store and carry drawings, paintings and other loose papers. It usually comprises two identical halves, usually made of plastic or leather, that are zipped together. A handle ensures it can be easily carried around. In size, portfolios as cases can range from A1 to A4.
However, the term portfolio can also be used more widely to refer to a collection:
- A student of architecture or qualified architect may be asked to bring their portfolio of work to a job interview. The portfolio will usually include a selection of drawings or projects completed by the applicant over a period of time which represents their design skills and abilities. Or, a writer or journalist may be asked to show a portfolio of their writings and articles.
- In another sense, the term portfolio can be used to signify a grouping of financial assets held by an investor. Their portfolio may comprise shares, stocks, currencies or bonds, or all of them.
- Alternatively, a rental landlord may have a portfolio of properties, a developer may have a portfolio of projects and so on.
- The Green Book, Central Government Guidance On Appraisal And Evaluation, Published by HM Treasury in 2020, suggests that a portfolio: ‘is a collection of programmes and/or projects it may be used to structure and manage investments at an organisational or functional level to optimise strategic benefits and/or operational efficiency.’ For more information see: Portfolio management.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.