Terminology
Common Words
Common Words
Definitions of common words and phrases used in the measurement photography and scanning, CAD and BIM documentation process.
A Symbol and Abbreviation Guide
Architectural blueprints, while visually rich, can often be perplexing due to the intricate details and specialized symbols employed. To demystify these technical drawings, we've created a comprehensive guide to common abbreviations and symbols found in floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, and elevations. Not all abbreviations are included here this is a basic overview of typically used symbols and words.
ACT Acoustic Ceiling Tile
AFF Above Finished Floor
BOB Bottom of Beam
BOD Bottom of Deck
BSMT Basement
CH Ceiling Height
CIP Cast In Place
CL Centerline
CLG Ceiling
CMU Concrete Masonry Unit
COL Column
CONC Concrete
DBL Double
DEMO Demolish or Demolition
DIM Dimension
DIMS Dimensions
DR Door
DWG Drawing or AutoCAD file
EL Elevation
ELEC Electrical
ELEV Elevator or Elevation
EXIST Existing
FF Finished Face or Finished Floor
FFL Finished Floor Level
FL Floor Level
FLR Floor
GWB Gypsum Wall Board
HVAC Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning
INT Interior
MAX Maximum
MECH Mechanical
MEP Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing
MO Masonry Opening
MIN Minimum
OC On Center
RCP Reflected Ceiling Plan
RM Room
SD Smoke Detector
TEL Telephone
TELE Telephone
TEL/DATA Telephone/Data
TO Top Of
TYP Typical
WC Water Closet
WH Water Heater
W/ With
A scope of work contract is a legally binding agreement between a consulting designer and their client. It outlines the services that the consulting designer will provide, as well as the terms of those services. The ‘Scope of Work’ document defines general work responsibilities. From the initial design phase where clear delineation of responsibility is needed, through to the execution phase final.
The contract should be as specific as possible, so that there is no room for misunderstanding. For example, if hired to design a new home, a contract should specify the size of the home, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the style of the home, etc.
Your project is unique, and so is our approach. From Commercial Space to empty warehouses, each building presents distinct challenges. Whether you're preparing for lease or a major renovation, our work is tailored to your specific goals. The scope of your project drives our process, and Our team is available to help you.
Several key factors influence the cost of services, include:
Location
Square footage
Building access
Building occupancy
Project schedule
Delivery speed
Days required on site
Time on site (total)
Types of drawings needed
Level of detail required
Architectural Complexity
Complexity of the interior
Complexity of the exterior
Complexity of the total spaces
Number of personnel
Tools required to measure
Tools required to scan
Special access: overnight or weekend
Special requirements (other)
Our collaborative approach ensures you receive the exact building data you need. By deeply understanding your project, we deliver tailored solutions that optimize costs and efficiency. Whether you're an architect, consultant, builder, or broker, our expertise empowers you to excel.
Building information modeling
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a sophisticated digital process that creates and manages detailed virtual representations of physical structures. BIM generates comprehensive models encompassing a building's physical and functional attributes. These digital blueprints serve as a collaborative platform for architects, engineers, contractors, and owners to make informed decisions throughout a project's lifecycle.
A key advantage of BIM is its ability to function as a living database. Any modification to a model element, whether a wall, door, or electrical system, is automatically reflected throughout the entire dataset. This dynamic feature eliminates the need for manual updates and ensures consistency across all project documentation. Consequently, BIM empowers teams to explore design alternatives, analyze potential conflicts, and optimize resource allocation with unprecedented efficiency.
Autodesk's BIM software
Autodesk Revit is a comprehensive Building Information Modeling (BIM) platform that empowers architects, engineers, and construction professionals to design, visualize, and construct high-quality buildings.
This powerful software goes beyond traditional 2D drafting, providing a dynamic environment to model building components in detail and analyze their interactions. Revit's centralized database ensures data accuracy and consistency throughout the project lifecycle.
Autodesk's CAD software
AutoCAD is a cornerstone software for architects, engineers, and designers across various industries. It provides a robust platform for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings, with unparalleled accuracy and flexibility.
Ultimately, AutoCAD is a versatile and powerful software that streamlines the design process, enhancing productivity, and delivering high-quality results.