Understanding Plan and Elevation
How to read your architect’s drawings so you can contribute and draw your own.
I have seen so many people sit with their architect discussing their extension or new plans without any real idea of what they are looking at. They feel difficult to ask for an explanation and yet this would always be willingly explained, however, sometimes it is good to have independent advice and take the time to digest at your own pace and prepare your questions. Without real knowledge, decisions based on guesswork, lead to misunderstandings. Clients can often feel ‘not in control of their project’ and unable to make suggestions
What You Will Learn:
- What is ‘plan’ and where does it start and finish?
- What is an Elevation?
- Understanding how to read them as architectural drawings
- Gain confidence in challenging the presentation with all agencies
Who This Module is for:
- Anyone working with professionals for the first time
- Producing your own technical drawings
- A starting point for those unfamiliar with this type of drawing


Image: A CAD drawn and rendered plan and elevation
What to expect...
Plans and Elevations are the basic drawings needed to design your floor layouts and any planning applications. These are fundamental. There are additional drawings but these can come later.
The next step is to understand the Scale Rule and how it is used because then your basic needs to appreciate plan, elevation and planning space effectively, will just need a bit of practise. These are invaluable skills. We have a video dedicated to the Scale Rule.

Image: The Scale Rule and Drawing Equipment

Image: A hand drawn plan and elevation
What is Included

This video is part of the ‘must-haves’ if you are planning any building works to extend, but is equally useful for planning ‘layouts’ not only at floor level but also the walls, which will complete your design. The next stage is to take on the challenge of the services and design your ceiling to match your plan. Design Help has this covered too!
Supported with a 1200 word Fact Sheet
See our great deals below or sign up to become a member at a special discount
Understanding Plan and Elevation
-
Easy to understand video
-
Back up Information for Reference
-
Professional Tips
Simple Technical Drawing Bundle
-
The Scale Rule
-
Drawing your Survey using the Scale Rule
-
Understanding Plan and Elevation
Membership
Cancel after 3 months, or earlier-
Access to the Home Renovation Masterplan
-
Access to the Kitchen Renovation Course
-
Access to All Modules & Videos
-
Downloadable Factsheets
-
Monthly Newsletter with Professional Tips & Trends
Other products that you might be interested in

Lighting and their
Symbols