In architecture, a plan is a two-dimensional graphic representation of a three-dimensional space. It is a fundamental tool used by architects and other design and construction professionals to communicate ideas and details about the configuration, layout and features of a building or architectural project. Architectural plans usually show an aerial view of the building or space, and contain detailed information about dimensions, room layout, location of windows and doors, building systems, structural elements, finishes and other important elements. Plans may also include annotations, symbology, and legends that aid understanding of the information presented.

In architecture, there are several types of blueprints used to represent different aspects of a project. Some of the more common ones include:

Blueprints of the floor

These plans represent an aerial view of the building or architectural space, showing the distribution of spaces at ground level. Floor plans are essential for understanding the layout of rooms, hallways, circulation areas, and other spaces in a building. They can also show the location of doors, windows, stairs and other important elements.

Elevation plans

These plans represent the facades of the building, showing how the building looks from the outside. Elevation plans may include details on the height of floors, the location of windows, doors, siding, and other architectural elements. Elevation plans are useful in understanding the appearance and layout of a building from the outside.

Section plans

These plans show a vertical section of the building, providing information on the internal layout of the spaces, the height of the ceilings, the location of structural elements, construction systems and other details. Section plans are especially useful for understanding how spaces inside a building are organized and constructed.

Detail drawings

These plans provide detailed information on specific elements of the building, such as construction details, finishes, carpentry, lighting, among others. Detail drawings are used by contractors and builders to understand the technical and construction elements of the building and ensure that they are executed correctly.

Facility plans

These plans represent the location and design of the building’s installation systems, such as electricity, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, among others. These plans are essential to coordinate the installation of services and systems in a building and ensure that they comply with applicable design and regulatory requirements.

These are just some of the types of plans used in architecture. Depending on the project and specific requirements, there may be other types of additional plans used to represent different aspects of the design and construction of a building.