Creating accurate floor plans is a crucial skill in production design. It involves mastering architectural symbols, measurements, and room layouts to visually communicate spatial information. This foundational knowledge enables designers to effectively plan and represent interior spaces for various projects.
Floor plans serve as blueprints for bringing designs to life. By understanding wall details, furniture placement, and lighting considerations, designers can create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. These skills are essential for translating conceptual ideas into practical, buildable environments.
Floor Plan Basics
Architectural Symbols and Measurements
Top images from around the web for Architectural Symbols and Measurements Module 40: Layouts – Part 2 – Introduction to Drafting and AutoCAD 2D View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Architectural Symbols and Measurements Module 40: Layouts – Part 2 – Introduction to Drafting and AutoCAD 2D View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Architectural symbols represent various elements on floor plans using standardized shapes and patterns
Common symbols include rectangles for doors, double lines for walls, and triangles for electrical outlets
Measurements provide precise dimensions of spaces and elements on the floor plan
Use consistent units throughout the plan (feet and inches, or metric)
Include overall dimensions for rooms and building footprint
Indicate wall lengths, window sizes, and door widths
Orientation and Legend
North arrow orients the floor plan within the site context
Place north arrow in a visible corner of the drawing, typically upper right
Arrow should point to true north, not magnetic north
Legend explains symbols, line types, and other notations used in the floor plan
Organize legend items logically, grouping similar elements together
Include scale information in the legend (1/4" = 1'-0" or 1:50)
Room Elements
Wall and Opening Details
Wall thickness varies based on construction type and function
Exterior walls typically thicker than interior walls to accommodate insulation
Represent walls with parallel lines, filling the space between with a pattern or solid color
Door swings indicate the direction doors open when in use
Show door swings with a curved line from the hinge side to the open position
Window placement affects natural light, ventilation, and views
Represent windows with a break in the wall line and additional details for frame and glazing
Room Layout and Circulation
Room layout organizes spaces based on function and flow
Consider traffic patterns and circulation paths between rooms
Indicate clear pathways with sufficient width for movement (minimum 36" for accessibility)
Label rooms with their intended use (bedroom, kitchen, living room)
Include closets, built-in storage, and other architectural features
Show plumbing fixtures in bathrooms and kitchens (toilets, sinks, showers)
Interior Design
Furniture Layout and Space Planning
Furniture layout demonstrates how rooms will be used and occupied
Include essential pieces like beds, sofas, dining tables, and work surfaces
Consider traffic flow around furniture pieces (allow 30-36" for walkways)
Show appropriate clearances for doors and windows (avoid blocking with furniture)
Indicate area rugs to define spaces within larger rooms
Include built-in elements like bookcases or entertainment centers
Lighting and Electrical Planning
Represent lighting fixtures with appropriate symbols (ceiling lights, wall sconces, lamps)
Show locations of electrical outlets and switches on walls
Consider task lighting for specific areas (kitchen counters, desks, reading nooks)
Indicate ceiling fans or other mechanical elements that affect the space
Plan for adequate general, task, and accent lighting in each room