A drawing set is a compilation of all conceptual drawings related to a specific project, often organized to facilitate planning and submission for permits. These sets can be grouped by various criteria, such as project phase or type of drawing, to streamline the submission process for acquiring necessary approvals.
In more detail, a drawing set is essentially a collection of architectural, engineering, or construction drawings that, together, completely describe a project. Here's a breakdown:
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Purpose: The primary purpose of a drawing set is to clearly communicate the design intent, technical specifications, and construction details of a project to all stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
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Content: A typical drawing set includes a variety of drawings, such as:
- Architectural Drawings: These drawings depict the overall design of the building, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and details.
- Structural Drawings: These drawings show the structural components of the building, such as foundations, walls, beams, and columns.
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Drawings: These drawings illustrate the building's mechanical systems (HVAC), electrical systems (power and lighting), and plumbing systems (water and drainage).
- Civil Drawings: These drawings show the site layout, grading, drainage, and utility connections.
- Landscape Drawings: These drawings detail the landscaping elements of the project, including planting plans, irrigation systems, and hardscape features.
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Organization: Drawing sets are typically organized according to a standardized numbering system and are bound together in a logical sequence. This makes it easier for users to find the specific drawings they need. Drawings may also be organized by project phase (e.g., schematic design, design development, construction documents).
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Permitting: One of the most important uses of a drawing set is for submitting plans to local authorities for building permits. These sets must comply with all applicable building codes and regulations.
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Example: Imagine a new office building project. The drawing set would include architectural plans showing the layout of each floor, structural plans showing the steel frame, MEP plans showing the HVAC and electrical systems, and civil plans showing the site grading and drainage.
In essence, a drawing set is a comprehensive collection of visual and technical information that enables the successful planning, design, and construction of a project.
