Draw the lines before choosing the cuts.

Use this concept setting-out desk to think about what the eye will see. A final layout needs confirmed tile dimensions, actual room measurements and the installer’s project review.

What happens beneath the finish.

Follow one explanatory room section from the surface you can see to the questions beneath it.

One project section · four conversation stages

The room as it stands.

Start with the visible surface, the adjoining finishes and the records you already have. Keep uncertain construction details as questions.

Look closely

A hairline in a drawing cannot diagnose the actual surface. Describe what is visible and ask what needs investigation.

Ask the installer

What needs checking before the finish is selected?

Discussion focus: existing surface

Illustrated relationships only. A qualified installer confirms the actual construction and specification.

Take this into my brief

What anchors the pattern?

Pick a discussion starting point.

Choose a starting point.

Mark the whole elevation.

Outline
Draw the surface and add openings, returns and the items staying in place. A rough sketch is enough for an initial discussion.
Annotate
Mark the most visible edges and any desired alignment. Separate preferences from fixed constraints.
Review
Ask the installer to explain the proposed layout, cuts and junctions using the actual site information.

Your setting-out note.

Record the priority view and the things the layout must respond to.

Look at the junction records.

Each meeting point can change the reading of the surface.

Read the finish details