As an introduction to our services at Peninsula Plan Service and Michael Hall Designs we would like to illustrate the distinction between a Floor Plan and a Set of Plans.

Compare the two halves of the sample plan to the right.     

FLOOR PLANS:   When you look at floor plans and elevations in a plan book or on a web site, you are looking at the bare bones of a full set of detailed plans, as needed for obtaining permits and building the home. Note the amount of detail in the left half of the sample plan, compared with the right side.  A floor plan is a clean, simple drawing usually showing the layout of the walls, room names, windows, doors and interior items including cabinetry and fixtures in the kitchen and baths. Often a few notes are attached indicating special design features.

These simple drawings make it easy to select a floor plan. Rarely is it exactly what you want but is a good starting point. Often you may find you like different parts of different floor plans, and want the elevations – the outside appearance – to be something different. The ideas you generate can then be used in discussions with your Designer.

A SET OF PLANS:   This contains many more details and instructions about what to build and how to build it. It may run from a minimum of five sheets for a small plan to many sheets for a custom plan.

A full set usually includes Site Plan, Foundation Plan, Framing Plans, Floor Plan(s), Roof Plan, Exterior & Interior Elevations, Electrical Plan and Structural Sections, Details, Engineering and Specifications. This detailed full set of plans will be used by the local permit office in issuing the permit and by the contractor and his sub-contractors to build it just the way you want it. On the right half of the sample above is shown a typically detailed floor plan that is part of the full plan set.

STOCK PLANS:   For the last twenty years or so we have specialized in Custom Home Design, so we no longer have stock plans for sale. There are others specializing in stock plans. Examples of a few of our recent custom floor plans can be seen at:

http://www.michaelhalldesigns.com/index.php?mod=home&function=show&subid=16

CALL US at Peninsula Plan Service:  If you already have a design, we can complete the construction drawings for you to submit for permits.  OR,  we can start at the design concept too!