Abstract: A method of describing the structure of a building which includes first selecting a core structural information template, determining the orientation of the core structure, determining dimensions for the core, and reviewing and adjusting default dimensions for the core. Second, addition structural information templates are selected if the building has a composite structure, with the additional structures being additions to the core or to other additions. Third, for each addition, the orientation of the structure is determined, dimensions are determined, default dimensions are reviewed and adjusted, and the position of attachment to the core or to other additions is determined. Finally, the predefined core and addition structural information templates are used to process the collected information from the foregoing steps for the purpose of calculating areas of surfaces and volumes of spaces.