How to read a floor plan

Most new launch showflats present floor plans as marketing documents — stylised, with furniture shown to imply scale. The technical conventions underneath remain consistent across developers, and getting literate in them answers most of the practical questions buyers ask before committing.

Reading the outline

The outer solid line is the structural envelope of the unit. Any internal walls shown as solid lines are load-bearing and cannot be removed. Dashed lines typically indicate partition walls or sliding doors that can be reconfigured. Thin dotted lines mark the boundary between unit-private space and common property.

Areas and orientation

• Strata area: the total floor area of the unit including any enclosed balcony
• Balcony: usually shown with a distinct line and may be open or enclosed; balcony area is included in strata area but calculated differently for some developer comparisons
• A/C ledge: where the condenser units go; matters for noise and maintenance access
• Yard: service area, usually off the kitchen; check whether it's enclosed or open

Orientation cues

Developers indicate direction with a small compass mark, typically in the bottom-right of each plan. In Singapore, a north-south orientation is generally preferred for the main bedroom (avoiding direct east/west sun). East-facing units get morning sun but afternoon relief; west-facing the opposite. Your preference depends on your daily routine more than any absolute rule.