What is FAR Calculator?

FAR stands for Floor Area Ratio. Floor Area Ratio, is a design and architectural term that refers to the ratio between the height and area of buildings. FAR is determined according to the construction method and is estimated on the basis of construction area. It is used to allow planning and construction of new construction projects. FAR Calculator is a tool that helps in calculating this ratio easily. This tool is extremely important for construction plans, as it helps to understand options and support the construction process.

 

How to Calculate FAR

To calculate the Floor Area Ratio (FAR), follow these steps:

1. Determine the Total Floor Area: Sum the total floor area of all floors in the building. Include all usable spaces such as residential units, offices, and commercial areas. Exclude areas such as parking, basements (if used for storage or parking), mechanical rooms, and other non-usable spaces unless local regulations specify otherwise.

2. Measure the Total Plot Area: Measure the total area of the land on which the building is situated. This is the horizontal area of the plot, not including vertical dimensions.

3. Apply the FAR Formula:

 

Example:

Step 1: Determine the Total Floor Area

• Ground floor: 5,000 square feet
• First floor: 5,000 square feet
• Second floor: 5,000 square feet
• Total Floor Area = 5,000 + 5,000 + 5,000 = 15,000 square feet

 

Step 2: Measure the Total Plot Area

• Plot area: 10,000 square feet

 

Step 3: Apply the FAR Formula

In this example, the FAR is 1.5, meaning the total floor area of the building is 1.5 times the area of the plot.

 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. What is FAR Calculator?

FAR stands for Floor Area Ratio. Floor Area Ratio, is a design and architectural term that refers to the ratio between the height and area of buildings.

Q2. Why is FAR important?

FAR is important because it helps regulate the density of buildings in a given area. By controlling the FAR, urban planners can ensure that buildings are not too tall or too large for the area they are in, helping to manage population density, traffic congestion, and the availability of light and air.

Q3. What is the difference between FAR and FSI?

FAR (Floor Area Ratio) and FSI (Floor Space Index) are essentially the same concept but with different terminologies used in different regions. Both measure the ratio of the building’s floor area to the plot area.

Q4. How to calculate FAR?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to calculate FAR:

1. Determine the Plot Area: Measure the total area of the land plot. This is typically given in square feet (sq. ft.) or square meters (sq. m.).
2. Determine the Total Floor Area: Calculate the total floor area of all the floors in the building. This includes the floor area of each level or story of the building.
3. Apply the Formula: Divide the total floor area by the plot area to get the FAR.

Q5. What factors influence FAR?

Several factors can influence the FAR of the property, including plot size, location, property type (residential, commercial, industrial), local building codes, zoning regulations.