Floor Plan

• Floor plan
  
  The floor plan of the room is drawn to scale. The typical scale used is 1/4 inch to equal 1 foot. Locations of doors and windows are included in the plan, allowing the designer to visually account for these elements. To this floor plan, the designer adds symbols representing chairs, sofas, tables, cabinetry and plants--any element that will be a part of the furniture layout. Designers sometimes employ small "cut outs" to represent these elements, so they can be moved around the floor plan. Once finalized, the designer will draw in the representative shapes.
  
  The furnishings are then marked with their respective measurements. This ensures that when the elements are placed in the room, they will fit according to the designer's plan.
  
  

Elevation

• Elevation
  
  An elevation is a sketch. It represents one portion of the room, and is the view that will be seen from a certain vantage point. A designer may have several elevations, such as an east wall elevation or north wall elevation. These sketches are artistic renditions, allowing the client to visualize the final results more clearly. An elevation can be a line drawing or a full-color computer-generated image of the view. Designers may use both of these tools to express their vision to the client.
  
  

Sample Board

• Sample board
  
  The sample board is a collection of samples brought together to show the client the color scheme, fabric and flooring choices, and paint choices. The sample board may display a few elements for a simple decorating makeover, or it may be a large board that includes photos of the furniture and accessories intended for the room. The sample board also may include a copy of the floor plan.
  
  

Do It Yourself

• If you want to approach your next design project using the tools professionals use, but are intimidated by drawing to scale and creating elevations, you can simplify the process for your personal needs.
  
  Measure your room and make a rough sketch of the space, marking the position of doors and windows. Mark the length and width of the room on your sketch. Using a pencil, draw in your furnishings. Double check the measurements of the piece and the space where you wish to place it if you have any doubts about it fitting.
  
  Draw by hand or on the computer what you want each wall to look like. For example, draw your couch with the end tables and coffee table. These rough sketches will help you in determining if the room flows in the same way you envisioned when drawing your floor plan.
  
  Keep your sample board simple. Keep your samples somewhat proportionate to their use in the room. For example, use larger swatches to represent the sofa fabric and draperies and a smaller swatch for the upholstered wing-back chair. Use the paint sample cards from the home improvement store to represent your paint colors. Add samples of any element of importance in the room.
  
  These tools will guide you through your project. They will provide you with a clear direction when you actually begin your redecorating. Measure any new pieces you're purchasing, so you can include those measurements in your floor plan. Use your elevations to ensure the room will come together the way you envision it and your sample board to guide you in your final decisions for your design.