We need to retain the ability to put together a set of Plans
I mentioned this before so this is an expansion on that comment. You should be thinking about how a set of plans are used and then group them for maximum efficiency and clarity. The entire set should tell a story that starts off with the overall story and then gets in the details as you march to the back of the set. Think smaller scale to larger scale as you zoom in from the overall plot plans to the minute construction details.
Keep it as simple as possible. Do not duplicate information on more than one sheet. Avoid multiple callouts of the same thing. Avoid over dimensioning and duplicate dimensioning form one sheet to another. Avoid adding superfluous detail that is not needed to communicate what you are trying to show. Sections should not extend beyond the area of focus. Data beyond a match line should not extend too far. Use enlarged plans only if there is too much data to display effectively on the standard plan. Reduce the replication of other disciplines information on your disciplines drawings.
Putting together a set of plans first includes defining what drawings come before others. Getting things is the right order is critical. In general, it follows the flow of trades on the construction site or processes in a manufacturing flow.
Here is a typical order for the building design process. This may change from industry/building type, etc.
General Drawing Set Order
- Titles and general information sheets
- Civil
- Landscape
- Architectural
- Structural
- Mechanical
- Fire Protection
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- ID
- Interiors / furniture layout
- Equipment Schedules
- Signage / Wayfinding
- Security
Here is an expansion of the Architectural bullet above that will show what might be done in other disciplines also.
- General sheets and notes (cover sheet, drawing index, project description, governing codes, architect and consultant addresses)
- Code analysis, exiting
- Overall and enlarged site plans
- Demolition – Existing conditions
- Floor plans
- Reflected ceiling plans
- Roof plans
- Exterior elevations
- Building sections, wall sections
- Enlarged room plans, enlarged toilet room plans, enlarged circulation drawings (stairs, escalators, lifts, etc.)
- Interior elevations
- Schedules (door, window, finish)
- Details
Do you have other ideas on the order? Comments?
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November 4th, 2011 at 11:36 AM
Don’t forget the “T” drawings. Special systems is no longer the red-headed step child of electrical.
November 8th, 2011 at 5:03 PM
You are correct – sorry for leaving them out.
December 6th, 2011 at 2:01 PM
I’m glad to see this posted Mark. Your statement about keeping it simple and avoiding duplication reminds me of something that I’ve carried with me for the last 25+ years. It was one of the first things I learned in the real world and still holds true today…MINIMUM ESSENTIAL DESIGN.
I saw it plastered on every Title Block I looked at while working for one of the largest and oldest chemical companies in the world. Too often we forget the basics…or were just never taught in a lot of case. If more people/companies followed this directive, the AEC world would be a better place!
December 15th, 2011 at 10:47 AM
Tim, Thanks for the comment. I recall seeing “Value Engineering” splattered all over title blocks also.