This review of Paul Clarke's book, 'Notations' examines how a highly innovative publishing format aligns itself to the natural leanings of the creative processes of a group of diverse architect/artists based in Ireland who have national and ( in some cases), international profiles. In doing so, it reveals the sense of spontaneity of the authors in generating and developing ideas as well as the diverse ways in which the sketchbook/notebook/journal is used in their respective observation and design processes. It makes explicit that despite in some cases working within highly digitised professional environments, the act of mark making in small notebooks or on transparent paper has endured as a vital part in creating highly sophisticated architecture.