How to Read a House Plan Like a Pro
House plans can feel a bit like a foreign language if you’re not used to looking at them. Lines, symbols, dimensions—what does it all mean? Whether you’re planning your dream home or reviewing designs with a builder, learning how to read a house plan will help you make confident, informed decisions. Here’s a simple guide to help you read a house plan like a pro.
1. Start with the Title Block
The title block is usually located at the bottom or lower-right corner of the plan. It includes important info like:
The name of the project or house plan
The scale (e.g., ¼” = 1’-0”)
The drawing date and version
The designer or architectural firm (like Peer House Design LLC)
This section helps you know what you’re looking at and whether you’re viewing the most up-to-date version.
2. Understand the Floor Plan View
A floor plan is a bird’s-eye view of the house. Think of it as if the roof was removed and you’re looking straight down.
Here’s what to focus on:
Walls are usually solid lines (interior vs. exterior may look different)
Doors are shown as arcs (indicating how they swing open)
Windows are thinner lines or breaks in walls
Rooms are labeled clearly (e.g., “Kitchen,” “Primary Bedroom”)
Stairs will be marked with directional arrows
3. Read the Dimensions
Dimensions are crucial—they tell you the size and spacing of everything.
Look for overall dimensions of the building
Room dimensions are often shown inside the plan
Wall thickness and window/door sizes may be noted in feet and inches
Pro tip: Always check the scale to know how to interpret the drawings accurately.
4. Learn Common Symbols
House plans use standardized symbols. Some of the most common include:
Toilets, sinks, and showers (seen in the plumbing layout)
Electrical outlets and switches
Light fixtures and ceiling fans
Stairs (often shown with arrows for up/down)
Most plans will include a legend or key—use it!
5. Check the Elevation Drawings
These are side views of the home’s exterior. They show:
Roof slopes and exterior finishes
Window and door placements
Material details (siding, stonework, trim)
This is where you’ll get a feel for curb appeal and architectural style.
6. Review the Foundation & Roof Plans
These technical drawings show how the house is supported and protected:
Foundation plans reveal footings, slabs, and structural support
Roof plans show the shape, slope, and structure of the roof system
These are key for builders, but it’s good for homeowners to know what they’re looking at, too.
7. Don’t Skip the Notes & Details
Designers often include callouts, notes, and construction details in the margins or on separate pages. These might cover:
Insulation specs
Framing notes
Building code references
This is where the technical magic happens—contractors rely heavily on this information.
8. Ask Questions!
Still not sure what you’re seeing? That’s what we’re here for.
At Peer House Design LLC, we believe great design should be understandable and approachable. Whether you’re selecting a stock plan or customizing a layout, we’ll walk you through every detail—so you feel confident and excited about the process.
Ready to dive into your dream home design?
Contact Peer House Design LLC to browse plans, request a custom layout, or get expert guidance on what works best for your lot, lifestyle, and budget.