Built Environment
Built Environment
Embedded Files
Buildings come in all shapes and sizes. Some are designed to get the job done, while others are like works of art, inspiring the people who live and work in them.
In this topic, you'll explore the basics of graphic design processes used in architecture and construction drawings. This will help you understand how ideas on paper become real-world structures.
Scale
Scale
Scale drawings enable us to represent large objects (like houses) and small objects (like screws) clearly on paper.
Scale refers to dividing or multiplying an object's dimensions by the same factor to make it fit the page.
1:1 – Full-Size2:1 – Double the Size1:2 – Half the Size
Scale refers to dividing or multiplying an object's dimensions by the same factor to make it fit the page.
1:1 – Full-Size2:1 – Double the Size1:2 – Half the Size
Three things influence the scale:
Three things influence the scale:
📄
The size of the paper
🏢
The size of the object
🔍
The amount of detail you wish to show
Location Plans
Location Plans
The location plan is the first drawing you need. It shows where the new building will go with everything else around it.
This plan helps builders figure out how to layout the new building and is required by local government officials who decide if the project can move forward.
Scale: 1:1250 or 1:2500
This plan helps builders figure out how to layout the new building and is required by local government officials who decide if the project can move forward.
Scale: 1:1250 or 1:2500
What kinds of professions use location plans?
What kinds of professions use location plans?
Architects
Conservation Bodies
Town Planners
What is shown on a location plan?
What is shown on a location plan?
- Neighbouring plots
- Plot numbers
- Pavements, roads, footpaths, railways and bridges
- Rivers, woodlands, parks and fields
- Contours show slope in the land
- Street names and plot (house) numbers
- A north-direction arrow and drawing scale
Site Plan
Site Plan
A site plan is a detailed architectural drawing that illustrates the property's location and layout, including any new buildings or structures' boundaries, shape, and positioning. This is a crucial reference for builders, enabling them to determine the construction area accurately, plan the excavation of trenches for drainage systems, and strategically place manholes for effective water management. Additionally, a site plan often includes essential details such as access points, landscaping elements, and utility connections, ensuring that all aspects of the project are clearly outlined for efficient and precise implementation.
Scale: 1:200
Scale: 1:200
What kinds of professions use location plans?
What kinds of professions use location plans?
Architects
Landscape Architects
Construction Trades
What is shown on a site plan?
What is shown on a site plan?
- Proposed building with the property boundaries
- Size and position of the building
- Position of drainage
- Landscape elements
- Gas, electrical and water supplies
- Contours show the slope in the land
- Trees (existing, proposed, and to be removed)
- North Symbol to show the direction the building is facing
- Size of the building and site to scale
Floor Plan
Floor Plan
A floor plan is a blueprint for a building. It shows what the building looks like from above. A floor plan is a sectional view, with the roof and a few layers of bricks removed to see the layout inside. A floor plan is a critical design tool that clearly and precisely represents how spaces will function together. It also includes dimensions, furniture placement, and key features, providing architects, builders, and clients with a comprehensive understanding of the building's functionality and flow before construction begins.
Scale: 1:50
Scale: 1:50
What kinds of professions use location plans?
What kinds of professions use location plans?
Construction Trades
Estate Agents/ Landlords
Interior Designers
What is shown on a floor plan?
What is shown on a floor plan?
- Arrangement of rooms
- Position of windows and doors
- Internal and External walls
- Dimensions of each room
- Layout of water pipes
- Electrical sockets and switches
More detailed floor plans show the layout of kitchens and bathrooms, as these rooms have fixtures and appliances.
BSI Symbols
BSI Symbols
BSI Symbols are used to simplify the drawing of common features. You must be able to identify all of these symbols.
Symbols are used in graphics because:
You can download a copy of the drawing symbols by clicking the button below.
Symbols are used in graphics because:
- They are understood in all languages
- They are easier and quicker to read
- They ensure all work is accurate (standardisation)
You can download a copy of the drawing symbols by clicking the button below.
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