Essential Guide to As-Built Drawings for Interior Design

Transform your interior design projects with our detailed as-built drawings. Measure Built provides tailored solutions to help you plan accurately and execute stunning designs while meeting all regulatory requirements.

AS BUILT DRAWINGS

Emil Jordan

6 min read

Interior design is about transforming spaces, but success starts with understanding every detail that is already there. This is where as-built drawings come in. These detailed documents capture the current layout, structure, and features of a space, providing the foundation for accurate planning and seamless execution.

At Measure Built, we understand the unique needs of interior designers. Our as-built drawings are tailored to help you work efficiently, meet regulatory requirements, and create stunning designs. Here’s a closer look at what we include in our standard packages for interior designers.

1. What Must Be Included in As-Built Floor Plans?

As-built floor plans are detailed representations of an existing space, capturing its dimensions, layout, and features. They serve as a foundation for renovation, design, or construction projects, ensuring accuracy and minimizing errors. Here's a comprehensive list of what must be included in as-built floor plans to meet professional standards and project requirements:

Walls and Structural Elements

Accurate placement and thickness of interior and exterior walls.
Structural columns, beams, and supports.
Load-bearing walls and partitions.

Openings (Doors and Windows)

Exact locations and dimensions of doors, windows, and openings.
Swing direction and type of doors (e.g., single, double, sliding).
Window types and sill heights.

Room Dimensions and Layouts

Clear labeling of all rooms, spaces, and zones.
Measurements of room dimensions (length, width, and square footage).
Placement of fixed installations, such as built-in cabinets or shelving.

Fixtures and Features

Placement of plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, and bathtubs.
Kitchen and bathroom layouts, including counters and appliances.
Location of HVAC components, like vents and grilles.

Electrical Details

Location of outlets, light switches, and electrical panels.
Placement of ceiling fixtures, recessed lighting, or pendant lights.
Identification of specialized circuits (e.g., for appliances).

Ceiling Heights and Features

Dimensions of ceiling heights in each room.
Details about bulkheads, dropped ceilings, or soffits.

Staircases (If Applicable)

Placement and dimensions of staircases.
Number of steps, riser heights, and tread depths.

Materials and Finishes

Indication of floor materials (e.g., wood, tile, carpet).
Notes on wall finishes, such as paint or wallpaper.
Details about ceiling materials.

Utility and Service Details

HVAC ducting and equipment placement.
Water supply and drainage lines.
Gas lines and shutoff valve locations.

Miscellaneous Elements

Furniture placement (if provided or required for planning purposes).
Emergency exits or pathways for compliance with safety codes.
North arrow and scale for reference.

A well-prepared as-built floor plan ensures:

Accurate Planning: Designers and contractors can confidently build or renovate.
Regulatory Compliance: City permits and building codes are easier to meet.
Reduced Errors: Fewer surprises during the project, saving time and money.

2. What Must Be Included in Exterior Elevations?

Exterior elevations are detailed drawings that provide a visual representation of a building’s exterior. These drawings are essential for design, construction, and regulatory compliance, offering a precise depiction of the building’s facade and structural elements. Here’s what must be included in exterior elevations to ensure accuracy and completeness:

Building Orientation

Clear labeling of the building’s elevation (e.g., North, South, East, West).
Indication of the direction the elevation is facing for context.

Wall Features

Dimensions and placement of exterior walls, including materials and finishes (e.g., brick, siding, stucco).
Details about decorative elements, such as cornices, trims, and moldings.

Doors and Windows

Precise location and size of all doors and windows.
Door and window types (e.g., sliding, casement, fixed).
Notes on materials, trims, and sills.
Window sill and header heights.

Roof Details

Roof slopes and pitches.
Overhangs, eaves, and fascia details.
Roofing materials (e.g., asphalt shingles, metal panels).
Chimneys, vents, and other roof-mounted features.

Ground and Site Details

Finished grade lines and ground slopes.
Indication of existing and proposed grades.
Landscaping elements, retaining walls, and pathways (if required).

Building Height and Levels

Total building height from ground level to roof peak.
Floor-to-floor heights and placement of levels.
Key reference points for height measurements (e.g., grade plane, parapets).

Openings and Facade Elements

Skylights, louvers, or other facade openings.
Balconies, decks, or terraces with dimensions.
External shading devices, awnings, or canopies.

Structural and Decorative Elements

Columns, beams, and supports (if visible on the exterior).
Railings, balustrades, and other safety features.
Any artistic or decorative features, like sculptures or murals.

Utility Features

Downspouts, gutters, and drainage systems.
HVAC equipment, such as wall-mounted units or louvers.
Utility meters and service panels visible on the exterior.

Compliance Information

North arrow and scale for reference.
Notations for material specifications, textures, and finishes.
References to building codes, zoning regulations, and compliance standards (e.g., unprotected opening calculations).

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3. What Must Be Included in As-Built Reflected Ceiling Plans (RCPs)?

An as-built reflected ceiling plan (RCP) is a critical drawing that captures the existing layout of the ceiling. It provides an overhead view of the ceiling's elements as if reflected in a mirror. This document is essential for interior designers, architects, and contractors to understand and optimize ceiling features for functionality and aesthetics. Here's what must be included in an as-built RCP:

Ceiling Layout

Overall ceiling dimensions and shape.
Type and height of the ceiling (e.g., flat, sloped, or vaulted).
Ceiling materials and finishes, such as drywall, tiles, or wood panels.

Lighting Fixtures

Location, type, and size of all lighting fixtures (e.g., recessed lights, pendants, chandeliers).
Switch locations and circuiting details.
Notes on lighting specifications, such as wattage or bulb type.

HVAC Components

Placement of ceiling-mounted HVAC elements, including:
- Air vents and return grilles.
- Ductwork and diffusers.
- Any visible equipment integrated into the ceiling design.

Fire Safety Equipment

Locations of sprinklers and fire suppression systems.
Smoke detectors, fire alarms, and other safety features.

Ceiling Penetrations

Openings for skylights, hatches, or ceiling-mounted speakers.
Bulkheads, soffits, or other structural elements affecting the ceiling.

Decorative Features

Placement of decorative beams, coffers, or ceiling tiles.
Any architectural details, such as crown molding or trims.
Acoustic panels or soundproofing materials.

Electrical and Communication Systems

Ceiling-mounted outlets for projectors, speakers, or cameras.
Wiring for smart systems or integrated technology (e.g., motion sensors).

Ceiling Height Notations

Heights of different ceiling levels (e.g., dropped ceilings or bulkheads).
Transition points where the ceiling changes height or slope.

Annotations and Labels

North arrow and scale for reference.
Clear labeling of all ceiling elements with corresponding notes.
Key or legend for symbols used in the plan.

Compliance Information

Fire safety code references (if applicable).
Notes on accessibility features, such as elevator shaft openings or emergency lighting.
Details required by local building codes or permitting authorities.

Why Interior Designers Need Comprehensive As-Built Drawings

Interior designers are tasked with transforming spaces into functional, beautiful environments that meet their clients' needs. However, every successful project begins with an accurate understanding of the existing conditions. Comprehensive as-built drawings play a crucial role in making this possible.

Accuracy Eliminates Guesswork

Provide precise measurements of the current space, including walls, doors, windows, and fixed installations.
Avoid errors caused by incorrect assumptions.
Enable confident design aligned with the actual structure.

Streamlined Design and Planning

Include essential components like floor plans, exterior elevations, and reflected ceiling plans (RCPs).
Optimize space usage and identify potential challenges.
Reduce time spent revisiting the site for additional measurements.

Simplified Collaboration with Contractors and Stakeholders

Act as a universal language for designers, contractors, engineers, and clients.
Provide clear communication about design intentions and existing conditions.
Facilitate a smooth project workflow.

1. Accuracy Eliminates Guesswork

As-built drawings provide precise measurements of the current space, including walls, doors, windows, and fixed installations. This level of detail ensures that designers:

Have a clear understanding of the spatial dimensions.
Avoid errors caused by incorrect assumptions.
Design with confidence, knowing the plans will align with the actual structure.

By starting with accurate data, designers can focus on creativity without worrying about costly surprises during execution.

2. Streamlined Design and Planning

Comprehensive as-built drawings include essential components like floor plans, exterior elevations, and reflected ceiling plans (RCPs). These details allow designers to:

Visualize the layout and identify potential challenges.
Optimize space usage and plan layouts more effectively.
Coordinate elements like furniture placement, lighting, and HVAC integration.

With all critical information in one place, as-built drawings reduce time spent revisiting the site for additional measurements or clarifications.

3. Simplified Collaboration with Contractors and Stakeholders

As-built drawings act as a universal language, ensuring that all parties—designers, contractors, engineers, and clients—are on the same page. They provide:

A detailed reference for construction and installation teams.
Clear communication about design intentions and existing conditions.
A solid foundation for discussing changes or resolving issues during the project.

This streamlined collaboration helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps the project on track.

4. Compliance with Building Codes and Permits

Many design projects require approval from city authorities or compliance with building codes. Comprehensive as-built drawings include the necessary details, such as:

Exterior facade measurements for zoning regulations.
Window and door placements for calculating unprotected openings.
Reflected ceiling plans for fire safety compliance.

Having accurate as-built documentation ensures a smoother permitting process, reducing delays and potential roadblocks.

5. Cost and Time Efficiency

Investing in as-built drawings upfront saves both time and money by:

Reducing costly mistakes caused by inaccurate measurements.
Minimizing changes or rework during the construction phase.
Accelerating the design and approval process.

This efficiency allows designers to focus their energy on delivering exceptional results for their clients.

6. Enhancing the Designer’s Reputation

Delivering flawless designs that align with the existing structure not only satisfies clients but also elevates a designer’s reputation. Comprehensive as-built drawings:

Show professionalism and attention to detail.
Help achieve better project outcomes.
Build trust and credibility with clients and collaborators.

Comprehensive as-built drawings are more than just technical documents—they’re a critical tool for reducing guesswork, improving efficiency, and achieving design excellence. From streamlining workflows to ensuring compliance, as-built drawings set the stage for success in any interior design project.

At Measure Built, we specialize in delivering accurate, BOMA-compliant as-built drawings tailored to your needs. Let us provide the foundation you need to create stunning, functional designs.

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