In architecture and interior design, a floor plan is a 2D drawing that represents the layout of a building or a single floor as seen from above. Floor plans are one of the most essential and widely used types of architectural drawings, providing a clear and concise overview of the spatial arrangement, circulation, and functionality of a building.

A typical floor plan shows the walls, doors, windows, stairs, and other fixed elements of a building, as well as the rooms, corridors, and other spaces that make up the interior layout. Floor plans are drawn to scale, using standard architectural scales and conventions, and may include dimensions, annotations, and graphic symbols to indicate materials, finishes, and other important details.

Floor plans serve several important purposes in the design and construction process:

1. Spatial Planning: Floor plans are used to explore and refine the spatial arrangement of a building, including the size, shape, and relationships between different rooms and areas. They help architects and designers to optimize the layout for functionality, efficiency, and user experience.

2. Building Code Compliance: Floor plans are used to demonstrate compliance with building codes and regulations, such as fire safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency requirements. They provide a clear and verifiable record of the building's layout and features.

3. Construction Documentation: Floor plans are a key part of the construction documentation package, providing detailed information for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. They are used to coordinate the work of different trades and to ensure that the building is constructed according to the design intent.

4. Communication and Visualization: Floor plans are used to communicate the design to clients, stakeholders, and the general public. They provide a clear and intuitive way to visualize the layout and functionality of a building, and to evaluate and discuss different design options and alternatives.

Floor plans can be created for different levels of detail and complexity, depending on the stage of the design process and the intended audience. They may range from simple bubble diagrams and schematic layouts to detailed construction drawings and as-built plans.

In addition to the basic layout and features, floor plans may also include additional information and graphics, such as:

• Furniture and equipment layouts

• Electrical and mechanical systems

• Finish and material schedules

• Accessibility and wayfinding details

• Sustainable design features and strategies

With the advent of computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) tools, floor plans can now be created and managed digitally, allowing for greater accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration in the design and construction process. However, the ability to create and interpret hand-drawn floor plans remains an important skill for architects and designers, as it allows for greater flexibility, creativity, and communication in the early stages of the design process.