Design Applications

What Is a Floor Plan in Designing?

A floor plan is a scaled diagram of a room or building viewed from above. It illustrates the horizontal relationships of interior spaces, walls, and features at a single level of a structure. Floor plans are typically drawn in orthographic projection and usually represent the layout as if viewed from approximately 4 feet (1.2 m) above the finished floor.

The level of detail in a floor plan depends on the design phase. Early schematic plans may show only major spatial divisions and rough square footages, while construction‑ready plans include wall types, dimensions, fixtures, finishes, and electrical symbols. Floor plans may also include notes, material callouts, and renderings depending on the intended use.

Applications I Use for Floor Plan & Design Work