# Welcome to laiout Your complete guide to AI-powered commercial space planning. laiout transforms how landlords, tenants, brokers, designers, and flex operators plan and visualise office spaces. This Knowledge Hub covers everything you need to get started, design layouts, export deliverables, and manage your organisation. ## Quick links | I want to... | Go to | | -------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Understand what laiout does | [What is laiout](/welcome/what-is-laiout) | | Get set up and create my first plan | [Sign In & Account Setup](/getting-started/sign-in-account-setup) | | See how laiout works for my use case | [How Tenants Use laiout](/explore-by-customer/how-tenants-use-laiout) | | Learn about upload options | [Uploading Floor Plans](/getting-started/uploading-floor-plans) | | Design and edit layouts | [Generating Layout Options](/designing-your-space/generating-layout-options) | | Export to PDF, CSV, CAD, Revit, or IFC | [PDF Export](/sharing-and-exporting/pdf-export) | | Understand compliance settings | [Supported Countries & Standards](/compliance-and-regulations/supported-countries-standards) | | Manage my team and organisation | [User Roles & Permissions](/organisation-settings/user-roles-permissions) | ## Need help? If you cannot find what you are looking for, reach out to our team at . # What is laiout
What is laiout? laiout is the world’s only fully automated AI platform for commercial floor planning. It is used in more than 36 countries and generates millions of square metres of layouts every month. Upload a PDF or DWG, press Generate, and review multiple credible layout options in seconds, each adapted to real building constraints and ready for human refinement. Every layout is designed to give your team a fast, reliable starting point for planning decisions. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / From empty plan to resolved design in under 10 minutes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at9txcVFgOI)
Who is laiout for? laiout serves multiple audiences: landlords who want to accelerate leasing and reduce vacancy, tenants planning new workplaces and comparing spaces, brokers creating instant test-fits during tours to close deals faster, designers and architects who want to automate repetitive work and focus on creative judgment, and flex/coworking operators standardising and marketing their spaces at portfolio scale.
What file formats does laiout support? For uploads, laiout accepts DXF, DWG and PDF floor plan files. For exports, the platform supports PDF presentation reports, DXF/DWG CAD files, IFC for BIM coordination, Revit (.rvt) for native Revit workflows, OBJ for 3D visualisation, and CSV for data export. Shared links can also be generated for browser-based stakeholder collaboration.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # How It Works
What is the right laiout option for me? laiout offers several options tailored to different needs and scales. With laiout Lite, you can upload a PDF floor plan, work on it within the platform, and export as a PDF. With laiout Pro, you have full control over the design process: upload in any supported format (DXF, DWG or PDF), access advanced editing tools, and export to CAD, Revit, IFC or PDF. For organisations that prefer a managed approach, laiout Service handles the floor plan cleaning and setup, so you can focus on generating and refining layouts. Contact the laiout team at to discuss which option suits your requirements.
What is the typical workflow in laiout? The standard workflow follows five steps: (1) Upload your floor plan in DXF, DWG or PDF format. (2) Draw corridors and set your space preferences, including room types, desk counts and density targets. (3) Click Generate to produce multiple AI-optimised layout options in seconds. (4) Edit and refine zones, furniture and room assignments. (5) Export your final plans as PDF, DXF, Revit, IFC or OBJ, or share via interactive live links.Note: There are two workflows - (1) Pro/Lite mode where you clean the file yourself, or (2) Serviced mode where you upload and wait for laiout to clean it for you - you'll receive an email when it's ready. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / From empty plan to resolved design in under 10 minutes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at9txcVFgOI)
How fast can laiout generate a floor plan? laiout generates multiple fully furnished, regulation-aware layout options in approximately 3 to 5 seconds. What traditionally requires days or weeks of manual CAD work, briefing cycles and consultant coordination can be completed in minutes. A full 3D model is also generated in around 4 seconds. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Quick Start Guide
How do I get started with my first floor plan? To get started: (1) Sign in at app.laiout.co and create a new project from your dashboard. (2) Upload your floor plan file (DXF, DWG or PDF). (3) Draw your corridors using the corridor editor. (4) Set your preferences for rooms, desks, amenities and density in the Preferences panel. (5) Click Generate and review your AI-created layout options. You can then edit zones, compare metrics, save favourites and export or share your results. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / From empty plan to resolved design in under 10 minutes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at9txcVFgOI)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Traditional Process vs laiout
How does laiout compare to the traditional test-fit process? In the traditional process, getting a single test-fit layout takes one to three weeks. A tenant or landlord briefs an external architect, the architect draws one or two options in CAD, revisions go back and forth by email, and the cycle repeats for every change. With laiout, the entire process collapses to minutes. You upload a floor plan, set your space programme (headcount, room types, density), and the platform generates multiple regulation-aware layout options in seconds. Instead of waiting weeks for one option, you can explore dozens of scenarios in a single session, compare them side by side with real data, and share results with stakeholders immediately via a live link or branded PDF. The architect is still valuable later for detailed design, but laiout removes the bottleneck that slows early-stage decisions.
How much time and cost does laiout save? Customers typically report 50 to 80 percent time savings on early-stage space planning. A traditional test-fit that takes two to three weeks and costs several thousand pounds per iteration can be replaced with instant generation at a fraction of the cost. For landlords, this means faster leasing cycles and shorter void periods. For tenants, it means comparing buildings and making confident decisions in days rather than months. For brokers, it means responding to client requests during a call rather than after a two-week wait. The exact savings depend on your workflow and volume, but the consistent pattern across our customers is that laiout compresses weeks of consultant-led work into minutes of self-service output. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / From empty plan to resolved design in under 10 minutes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at9txcVFgOI)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # How Tenants Use laiout
What can tenants do with laiout? Tenants use laiout to explore and compare potential workspaces before committing to a lease. The platform lets non-technical team members (real estate leads, operations, HR, finance) visualise how their organisation fits into a space, without needing CAD skills or external consultants. Tenants can run side-by-side comparisons of multiple buildings, view cost and capacity data, and share interactive plans with internal stakeholders to align decision-making.
How does laiout help with workplace planning? laiout helps tenants make faster, more confident workplace decisions by providing instant visibility into how a space performs. Instead of waiting weeks for an architect to produce a test-fit, tenants can see multiple layout options immediately, complete with desk counts, room allocations, cost estimates and carbon data. This lets real estate teams present options to senior leadership and finance stakeholders with data-backed clarity, reducing the back-and-forth that typically slows down lease negotiations and fit-out planning.
Which features matter most for tenants? The features that matter most for tenants include: multi-building comparison through side-by-side projects, the 3D modeller and walkthroughs for helping non-technical stakeholders understand spaces, shared live links for circulating options to internal teams (real estate, finance, operations, HR), cost and carbon metrics for budget and ESG reporting, branded PDF exports for board presentations, and the ability to adjust preferences (density, room mix) and regenerate instantly to test different workplace strategies.
How do tenants typically use the platform? A typical tenant workflow starts when the real estate team receives shortlisted floor plans from their broker. They upload each option into laiout, set their space programme (headcount, room types, density target), and generate layouts for each building. Using the comparison metrics, they evaluate which spaces best meet their requirements. The best options are saved as favourites, and shared links are sent to key stakeholders for review. Feedback is incorporated by adjusting preferences and regenerating, until the team reaches alignment on the preferred space.
Can I compare multiple buildings side by side? Yes. You can upload floor plans for each building on your shortlist, apply the same space programme and preferences to all of them, and generate layouts for each. The statistics panel shows metrics like desk count, efficiency, cost and area distribution for every option, making it straightforward to compare buildings on a like-for-like basis. You can save your preferred option for each building as a favourite and share them with your team via separate links or a combined PDF.
How do I share layout options with stakeholders who do not have a laiout account? Use the Shared Links feature. Save any layout as a favourite, then generate a shared link that opens in any web browser without requiring a laiout account. Stakeholders can explore the 2D layout, switch to 3D, view statistics, and navigate the space. You can restrict access by email whitelist, set expiry dates, and track who has viewed the link. For more formal presentations, export a branded PDF with your company logo, floor plan, 3D views and key metrics. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Can laiout help me build the business case for my board or CFO? Yes. The platform generates quantified data that strengthens any real estate business case: desk counts and capacity per floor, cost estimates for fit-out, area efficiency percentages, carbon impact figures, and side-by-side comparisons between buildings or layout scenarios. You can export this data as a CSV for your own financial modelling or present it in a branded PDF that is ready for board-level review. The ability to show multiple tested options with hard numbers moves the conversation from opinion to evidence. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
Can I model different workplace strategies for the same floor plan? Yes. You can change the density, desk ratio, room mix and zone types in your preferences and regenerate as many times as you need. For example, you could generate one layout optimised for full-time office attendance at 8 sqm per person, another for hybrid working at 12 sqm per person with more collaboration space, and a third with hot-desking ratios applied. Save each as a favourite and compare the data to see how different strategies affect capacity, cost and spatial balance on the same floor. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
How does laiout handle multi-floor or multi-building requirements? Each floor is uploaded and planned individually within a project. You can create one project per building and add all floors to it, setting preferences per floor or copying them across floors for consistency. For multi-building evaluations, create separate projects for each building and compare the aggregated statistics. This approach scales to portfolios of any size and lets you manage headquarters relocations, regional offices and satellite sites from a single account.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # How Landlords Use laiout
What can landlords do with laiout? Landlords use laiout to generate instant test-fit options for prospective tenants, add interactive layouts to listings with Live Listings, run acquisition feasibility studies, and reduce reliance on external architects for early-stage planning. The platform helps landlords showcase the flexibility of their floor plates and demonstrate how different team sizes can occupy the space, directly accelerating the leasing conversation.
How does laiout help with leasing? laiout accelerates leasing by removing the bottleneck of waiting for external test-fits. Landlords can generate multiple layout options during a prospect meeting, showing exactly how a tenant's team would fit the space. Interactive shared links let prospects explore layouts and 3D walkthroughs independently, maintaining engagement after the tour. This visual clarity helps tenants see themselves in the space, reducing decision time and shortening void periods. Clients like British Land and Workspace use laiout to accelerate tenant decision-making.
Which features matter most for landlords? The features that matter most for landlords include: instant AI generation to produce test-fits live during tours, Live Listings for digital listings and marketing suites, the 3D modeller and AI Renders for immersive prospect presentations, multi-tenancy tools for demonstrating flexible floor splitting, real-time metrics (capacity, cost, efficiency) to support negotiations, and branded PDF exports for professional tenant packs.
How do landlords typically use the platform? A typical landlord workflow begins by uploading floor plans for their portfolio of available spaces. When a prospect enquiry arrives, the landlord opens the relevant project, adjusts preferences to match the prospect's brief (team size, room requirements), and generates options in seconds. During the tour, layouts are shown on a tablet or screen. After the meeting, a shared link or branded PDF is sent to the prospect and their internal stakeholders. As negotiations progress, layouts are refined based on feedback, keeping the deal moving.
Can I add laiout layouts directly to my property listings or website? Yes. Live Listings place an interactive, explorable layout directly on your property listing page, marketing website or leasing portal. Prospective tenants can view the floor plan, switch to 3D, and explore the space without leaving your site. This turns a static listing into an interactive experience that differentiates your building from competitors.
Can I use laiout for acquisition due diligence on new buildings? Yes. Upload the floor plans for a building you are considering acquiring and generate layouts to test capacity, efficiency and fit-out feasibility before committing. This gives you quantified data on how many tenants the building can support, what the likely density is, and whether the floor plates work well for the market you are targeting. It replaces the guesswork that often accompanies acquisition decisions with concrete, testable evidence.
# How Brokers Use laiout
What can brokers do with laiout? Brokers use laiout to generate instant test-fit layouts during tours, calls and pitch meetings. Instead of waiting days for an architect to produce options, brokers can show prospects how a space works for their specific team size and requirements in real time. The platform produces branded PDF reports, interactive 3D walkthroughs and shareable live links, giving brokers professional-grade collateral to differentiate their pitch and maintain deal momentum.
How does laiout help win more mandates? laiout helps brokers win mandates by demonstrating value upfront. When pitching to landlords, brokers can show how they will use AI-powered test-fits to market spaces more effectively and reduce time-to-lease. During tenant conversations, brokers generate personalised layout options on the spot, proving they can deliver insight faster than competitors who rely on traditional manual processes. This speed and visual clarity builds trust and positions the broker as a proactive, tech-enabled advisor.
Which features matter most for brokers? The features that matter most for brokers include: instant layout generation to show options during tours, the shared live link feature for sending interactive plans to prospects after meetings, PDF exports with branding for professional follow-up packs, the 3D modeller to help prospects visualise the space, comparison metrics (capacity, cost, efficiency) to support data-backed advice, and multi-tenancy tools for showing sublease or floor-sharing scenarios.
How do brokers typically use the platform? A typical broker workflow starts by uploading a floor plan for a listing and generating several layout options showing different team sizes or configurations. During a tour, the broker pulls up the project on a tablet or laptop, adjusting preferences live based on the prospect's brief. After the meeting, the broker shares a live link or sends a branded PDF pack. As the deal progresses, the broker can refine layouts based on feedback and generate updated deliverables, keeping momentum through every stage of the transaction.
Can I use laiout during a live property tour or client call? Yes, and this is one of the most common broker workflows. Because laiout generates layouts in seconds, you can open the platform on a laptop or tablet during a tour, adjust the space programme to match the prospect's brief in real time, and show them multiple furnished layout options on the spot. This turns a passive viewing into an active, consultative experience and demonstrates your value as an adviser rather than just a tour guide.
How do I brand outputs for my clients? When exporting a PDF, you can add your company logo, select custom fonts, and include branded cover and end pages with your own images. Shared links also display your organisation's branding. This means every deliverable you send to a client or prospect carries your firm's identity, reinforcing your professional positioning. Set up your branding once in your company profile and it applies across all exports. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # How Designers Use laiout
What can designers do with laiout? Designers and architects use laiout to automate the repetitive, early-stage work of space planning. The platform generates credible first-draft layouts in seconds, complete with furniture placement, room allocation, and compliance checks. Designers can then export to Revit, IFC or DXF and refine the output in their preferred design tools. This lets them explore more concepts faster, respond to briefs more competitively, and focus their time on the creative judgment and detail that clients value most. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / From empty plan to resolved design in under 10 minutes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at9txcVFgOI)
How does laiout complement design tools? laiout integrates into existing design workflows rather than replacing them. Outputs can be exported as DXF for AutoCAD, as native Revit files, or as IFC for open BIM coordination. Designers use laiout to generate the initial spatial arrangement and zoning, then take the exported files into their CAD/BIM software for detailed design development. The platform handles the repetitive calculation work (quantities, compliance, density) so the designer can concentrate on narrative, materiality and client engagement. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Which features matter most for designers? The features that matter most for designers include: instant multi-option generation to explore spatial concepts quickly, Revit and IFC export for seamless handoff to BIM workflows, the regulation checker for fire safety and custom furniture upload (RFA files) to use real product specifications, the cost and carbon calculator for early-stage budget and ESG input, and the 3D modeller for client presentations that bridge the gap between 2D plans and spatial understanding. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
How do designers typically use the platform? A typical designer workflow begins with uploading a CAD file in Pro mode for maximum control. The designer draws corridors, sets the space programme (room types, quantities, density), and generates multiple layout options. They compare these using live metrics, then select the best-performing option and refine it using zone editing tools. Once satisfied, they export to Revit or DXF for detailed design. The 3D view and PDF builder are used to create client-facing presentations that communicate design intent clearly. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Will laiout replace my role as an architect or designer? No. laiout is designed to handle the repetitive, time-consuming early-stage work that most designers find least rewarding: the initial test-fits, bulk option generation, and space programme validation. It frees you to focus on creative design decisions, client relationships and detailed design development. Think of it as a tool that eliminates the grunt work so you can spend more time on the work that requires human judgment and design thinking. Your expertise is still essential for everything beyond the feasibility stage. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
How accurate are laiout-generated layouts compared to manual design? laiout generates regulation-aware layouts that account for corridor widths, clearances, fire exit distances and density standards, based on parameters you set to match your local regulations rather than guaranteed compliance in every country. The output is a credible first draft that meets the spatial and compliance requirements you would apply manually. It is not a finished design; it is a strong starting point that typically requires 10 to 20 percent refinement in your CAD or BIM tool, compared to the 100 percent effort of starting from scratch. Customers describe the output as equivalent to what a junior designer would produce in several hours, delivered in seconds.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # How Flex Operators Use laiout
What can flex operators do with laiout? Flex and coworking operators use laiout to rapidly scope new buildings for feasibility, configure unit layouts for different client types, and maintain consistent visual marketing across their portfolio. The platform generates desk counts and capacity projections in seconds, factoring in regulations and clearances, so operators can make fast, informed decisions about whether a space works for their model.
How does laiout help with portfolio management? laiout helps operators manage portfolios at scale. When scouting new locations, operators can upload a floor plan and instantly see how many desks fit, what the cost profile looks like, and whether the space meets compliance standards. For existing inventory, operators can reconfigure units for incoming clients (changing desk counts, room mixes, or partition layouts) without needing CAD expertise. Live links can be integrated into leasing systems so prospects see accurate, branded floor plans directly on the operator's website.
Which features matter most for flex operators? The features that matter most for flex operators include: instant generation for rapid feasibility studies, the regulation checker for fire and occupancy compliance across different markets, custom branding and colour palettes for white-labelled outputs, Live Listings for integration into leasing platforms, CSV export for capacity and cost data, the bill of quantities for fit-out budgeting, and multi-tenancy tools for managing multiple units on a single floor.
How do flex operators typically use the platform? A typical flex operator workflow starts with uploading a prospective building's floor plan to assess feasibility (desk count, capacity, compliance). If the space is viable, the operator configures unit layouts for different client scenarios (e.g. a 20-person startup vs. a 50-person enterprise team) and generates branded visuals for marketing. Live Listings are added to the leasing website, and as units are leased or reconfigured, the operator updates layouts in minutes rather than commissioning new CAD drawings.
Can I add laiout to my marketing website for prospective members? Yes. Use Live Listings to add interactive, explorable floor plans directly to your website's location pages. Prospective members can see exactly how a unit is configured, explore the 3D walkthrough, and visualise themselves in the space before booking a tour. This level of transparency differentiates your brand and converts more website visitors into enquiries.
Can I standardise layouts across my portfolio for brand consistency? Yes. Set up your preferred furniture, desk sizes, zone colours and branding in your company profile and presets. These apply across all projects in your account, ensuring that every location in your portfolio uses the same design language and standards. When you generate layouts for a new building, the output automatically reflects your brand guidelines. Copy preferences between floors and projects to maintain consistency without manual duplication. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set furniture presets for your organisation](https://youtu.be/ReNTyZEms88)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Plans & Pricing
How is laiout priced? laiout is priced per square foot or square metre of floor space planned on the platform. This usage-based model means you pay in proportion to the size of your portfolio, not per user or per seat. Contact our team for a tailored quote based on your requirements.
Is there a minimum portfolio size or contract value? Yes. laiout has a minimum of 10,000 sqm per year. The platform delivers the strongest return on investment at portfolio scale where the time savings compound across multiple floors and buildings.
Can I trial laiout before committing to a subscription? Yes. laiout offers a paid trial period so you can test the platform on your own floor plans with full access to all features. This lets you evaluate the output quality, speed, and workflow fit before committing to a longer-term agreement. Contact our team to arrange a trial.
How does AI Renders pricing work? AI Renders is available as an optional add-on to your laiout subscription. Contact our team or speak with your account manager for current pricing. It is significantly more cost-effective than traditional rendering services, which typically charge hundreds of pounds per image.
Do I pay per user or per seat? No. laiout does not charge per user or per seat, but purely based on an acquired bandwidth of sqm/sqft. Your subscription covers your organisation, and you can add as many team members as you need without additional per-user fees.
What is included in my subscription? A laiout subscription covers full access to the platform's layout generation engine and a wide suite of features, which our sales team is able to talk you through in more detail. AI Renders is available as an optional add-on.
How does laiout compare in cost to traditional test-fitting? Costs difference are highly dependent, but most clients use laiout because it allows them to move faster than the competition. Deliver test-fits in an hour, create custom test-fits with your prospects while they're in the room, enhance listings with high quality and visually appealing materials, save back and forth and additional costs with our automated quantity takeoffs including costs and CO2 forecasts.
Is there a free version of laiout? laiout does not offer a free tier. The platform is designed for professional commercial real estate workflows where accuracy, compliance, and export quality matter. A paid trial is available so you can evaluate the platform before subscribing.
How do I get a quote? Contact our team or [book a demo](https://laiout.co/contact) to discuss your requirements. Pricing is tailored to your portfolio size and usage needs.
# Sign In & Account Setup
How do I sign into the laiout app? To log into the app for the first time, find the invitation email you received from , click on the "sign in to laiout " button, insert your email address and create a password.
I don't have an account yet. How do I get access to laiout? You need to request an invite link from your organisation's Admin. You will then receive an invite on your email from (Check Spam folder as some IT filters block the email the first time)
I didn't receive an invitation email. What do I do? If you didn't receive an invitation, please first check your Spam folder. Otherwise, you can click on "forgot password" and request a new one to login.
How do I set up an organisation? When beginning your journey with laiout, our team will create a new organisation environment and provide you access to it. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to navigate your dashboard & create new projects](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVJPfnaXXT0)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %}
How do I change my password? On the login screen, click "Forgot password?" below the login button. Enter your email address and click "Send magic link." You will receive an email to reset your password. Alternatively, if you are already logged in, open the side panel by clicking on your initials, click on the 3 dots next to your email address at the bottom of the panel, and select "Reset Password."
How do I set up 2FA? To set up 2-Factor Authentication, open the side panel by clicking on your initials, click on 3 dots next to your email address at the bottom of the panel, and select "Configure 2FA".
I lost access to my account/organisation. What do I do? Please contact your organisation's Admin, they will be able to invite you again to your account or reach out to your .
# Interface Overview
What are the main sections of the laiout interface? The laiout interface has several core areas. The Dashboard is where you manage all projects, create new ones, assign clients and organise your portfolio. The Project View shows all floors within a project and their status. The Floor View is the main workspace where you draw corridors, set preferences, generate layouts, edit zones and compare options. The Preferences Panel (accessed from the left sidebar) lets you configure rooms, density, workstation types, and advanced settings. The Favourites Bar stores saved layout options for comparison. The Export and Share panels let you produce deliverables and create interactive live links. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to navigate your dashboard & create new projects](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVJPfnaXXT0)
How do I navigate through laiout? After logging into laiout, you land on Project page where all projects are displayed. Click on the button with your initial to open a side bar. Various company level settings are available there. Enter a project to see floors it contains. CLick on 3 dots on a floor card to access its settings and favourites. Enter one of the floors to work on it. On the left side bar you can open and set up the preferences by clicking on 3 horizontal lines. On the top bar you will find a couple of editors, such as Overlay, Circulation or Multi Tenancy editors. Click on the laiout button to generate. Newly generated options will appear. Stats panel on the right side will fill up with statistics about a floor plan you are currently hovering onto. Click on one of the options to edit it. On the left side you can access Furniture Library now. In the top bar you will find some visibility options and other useful tools/toggles. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to navigate your dashboard & create new projects](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVJPfnaXXT0)
Where can I adjust company settings? All company-level settings are located in the menu that opens after clicking on your Initials button, on the top-left side. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to manage company settings and profile information](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWj9tvaVCQo)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Creating Your First Project
How do I add a project? To add a new project, click on the "Add Project" button in the top right corner of the window. Specify the name and location of your project. Optionally (if available) you can assign a client to the project. Projects help you organise your floor plans uploaded to the app. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to navigate your dashboard & create new projects](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVJPfnaXXT0)
How do I upload a file? To upload a file, enter an existing project or create a new one. Click on a square with upload symbol. In the pop-up window choose a file from your computer you want to upload. You can also drag and drop the files you want to upload. Currently you can upload max 5 files in one batch. In the modal, from the available buttons select which mode do you want to use (Lite/Pro/Serviced). Optionally you can add a note that can for example explain which part of the file has to be uploaded or which rooms have to be retained.
Can I edit project's name and location? Yes. You can edit project details by clicking on on the 3 dots on the right of the Project row. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to navigate your dashboard & create new projects](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVJPfnaXXT0)
How can I sort my projects? You can sort your projects by name, address, client, size and number of floors. By default the projects are sorted by the time of creation, the newest appearing on the top of the list. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to navigate your dashboard & create new projects](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVJPfnaXXT0)
Is the total sqm displayed GEA or NIA? The area displayed in the Projects page is the total GEA of all floors uploaded into that project. NIA and GEA calculations follow either RICS or GIF measurement standards, which you can configure in Advanced Preferences.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Uploading Floor Plans
What file formats can I upload? For serviced floors you can upload a DXF or DWG file. Additionally you can attach a note or a PDF for us to understand your needs better.
How do I upload? The upload process depends on which laiout option you are using. See 'What is the right laiout option for me?' in the How It Works section for guidance on Lite, Pro, and Service modes and their supported input and output formats.
What is the maximum file size I can upload? The maximum file size for uploads is 25MB for floor plan files and 85MB for furniture uploads. If your file exceeds these limits, try simplifying the floor plan by removing unnecessary layers or splitting large buildings into separate files.
# laiout Flow
What is laiout Flow? laiout Flow is an AI assistant built into the laiout app that answers your questions and shares product updates, so you can get help without leaving your workspace. It is designed to give you quick answers to common questions instantly, rather than searching elsewhere or contacting the team.
How do I open laiout Flow? After logging in, click the chat icon at the bottom right of the screen. A panel opens where you can read announcements or ask a question.
What can I ask laiout Flow? You can ask how to use any part of laiout, from setting up your account and creating your first project to questions about a plan you are working on, such as how capacity numbers work or how to save a design as a favourite. Where helpful, it can also point you to short demo videos for common questions.
What are announcements in laiout Flow? The announcements section shows new functionality and product updates as they are released. You will get a notification when there is something new, so you can keep up with changes without leaving the app.
Does laiout Flow replace the Knowledge Hub? laiout Flow is the fastest way to get answers while you work, and it covers most common questions directly in the app. This Knowledge Hub remains available for more detailed guidance whenever you want it.
*** ## Video Guides ### laiout Flow - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Pro Mode
What file formats can I upload to Pro? You can upload DXF and DWG formats to Pro.
Can I upload PDF to Pro? No, it is not possible to upload PDF in Pro, however it's possible in Lite.
Are there any limitations with Pro? Pro mode supports all core laiout functionalities including the Fire Regulation checker.
Can I edit floors in Pro after generating? Yes, to do so, go to the empty floor view that appears before generating and click on "Edit floor" button to enter the edit mode again.
Can I edit circulation in Pro? Yes, you can edit circulation by entering Circulation mode in floor view, available in the top bar.
Can I view 3d in Pro? Yes, you can open 3D view it Pro. All generated elements will be properly displayed. Representation of original building elements, such as core and external walls will be derived from 2D in the best way possible and is dependent on the level of detail applied during the cleaning process. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I add tenancy splits in Pro? Yes, you can add tenancy splits in Pro mode. Multi Tenancy is available across all upload modes. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://youtu.be/MPWJOF7qDwg)
Can I export revit file with Pro? Yes, you can export Revit file from a floor uploaded in Pro mode, however it will only represent objects generated within the app (external walls and core won't be parsed into Revit elements) **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Lite Mode
What does Lite Mode do when I upload a file? Lite Mode uploads your file as-is, without reading its individual layers. The file appears exactly as it was given to you, so you can skip any cleaning workflow and get straight to a test fit.
When would I use Lite Mode? Lite Mode is built for quick test fits. Use it as soon as you receive a file to check whether a building is worth spending more time on, before committing to a full workflow.
What file formats can I upload to Lite? You can upload DXF, DWG and PDF files.
Can I upload PDF in Lite? Yes, you can. You will have to specify the scale though.
Can I crop my floor plan when uploading in Lite Mode? Yes. Cropping is useful when your file contains several floors on one page. You can either crop to the specific area you want to work with, or use the entire file.
How do I set the scale in Lite Mode? When you upload your file, measurements are shown on screen. If the scale looks correct, confirm it and continue.
How do I mark the area I want to zone in Lite Mode? Use the plus tool to include the area you want to zone. You have two ways to select: polygons for precise selections, or rectangular selection for quicker, rougher work. You don't need to be super precise, as Lite Mode is designed for speed.
How do I exclude areas from the layout in Lite Mode? Use the minus tool to exclude regions where you don't want laiout to place desks or other elements, such as pillars or walls. If you don't exclude an obstruction, laiout will place items wherever it can regardless.
What happens if I don't exclude a pillar or obstruction? If you leave an obstruction inside your included area, laiout may place a desk or other element on top of it. For a quick test fit, this is often acceptable. For a cleaner result, exclude those elements manually.
How do I add a corridor in Lite Mode? Once your areas are marked, draw a corridor. For simplicity, you can just draw one straight down the middle of the space.
Can I set preferences before generating in Lite Mode? Yes. You can specify preferences such as how many people you want to fit, and laiout will factor these in when generating.
How long does a Lite Mode generation take? Less than a minute. Lite Mode is built for speed so you can quickly assess whether a floor plan is worth developing further.
Can I edit floors in lite after generating? To edit a floor you've once completed and generated on, go to the Floor page by clicking on Floor name in the breadcrumbs. Select 'Edit floor plan" to edit it further.
Can I upgrade to Pro Mode after using Lite Mode? Yes. Once you have verified through Lite Mode that a building is suitable, you can upgrade to the full Pro Mode workflow to develop a more detailed layout.
# Serviced Mode
What does laiout service mean? laiout service means that your CAD drawing is prepared by laiout team for the upload. The results are very accurate.
Are there any limitations with laiout service? No, laiout-serviced floorplans are free from any functional limitations.
How long do I need to wait for the file to be serviced? We aim to deliver serviced floor plans as quickly as possible, usually within 24 hours from the upload on working days. If you upload more than one file, it might take longer to deliver all of the floor plans.
What file formats can I upload? For serviced floors you can upload a DXF or DWG file. Additionally you can attach a note or a PDF for us to understand your needs better.
# Cleaning Your Floor Plan (Pro)
Where should I click to start working in laiout PRO? To begin using laiout Pro, navigate to your project folder and click Upload. Select laiout Pro as your upload mode. The file will load and the Pro editor will open automatically, ready for you to start preparing your floor plan. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
How long does file cleaning take? A typical file takes about 18 to 20 minutes to clean. With practice, this can come down to around 5 minutes.
Why is it asking me to choose between "entire file" or "crop"? Architectural files often contain layers and information that are not needed for workplace design. In laiout Pro, you can click and drag to select only the area you need (typically the floor plan itself) and choose to crop. This excludes title blocks, notes and other extraneous elements from your working file. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
Why is it asking me to scale the file? Architectural files can be saved in different units. The unit selection step allows you to verify that the building is displaying at the correct scale. The dimension lines shown in the plan view represent the effective dimensions that will be used in the design process. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
How do I confirm the units on my uploaded file are correct? Toggle the grid overlay to check. Each square represents 1x1 metre. As a quick sanity check, compare against a doorway on your plan: a standard office door is approximately 920mm wide.
I see a warning triangle when I upload my file. Is something wrong? No, this is expected and safe to ignore. The warning simply means the layer names in your file do not exactly match laiout's standard checklist. Click "Go Pro" to proceed to the cleaning workflow as normal.
Do I need to remove furniture from my file in CAD before uploading? No. You can delete furniture layer by layer directly inside laiout, with one click per layer. This is faster than removing it in CAD beforehand, so upload the file as-is and clean furniture within laiout.
What are the elements on the left panel? The left panel contains a series of tools organised into categories. Draw, Trim and Delete allow you to divide spaces and adjust the floor plan geometry. The Layers panel lets you assign specific lines to specific layers (such as walls, pillars or glass). Selection modes help you speed up the assignment process by enabling different selection behaviours. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
Which selection mode should I use when cleaning? Start with Layer, which is the fastest and most reliable option when your file is well-organised. If Layer does not work well for your file, try Block next, then Normal, then Entity (single line) as a fallback for one-off selections.
Which elements do I need to assign before I can start cleaning? Only two: pillars (or columns) and glass. Everything else, including furniture, kitchens, and bathrooms, can be cleaned quickly inside laiout with a single click per layer. There is no need to prepare these in CAD before uploading.
How do I assign glass correctly, and what is the most common mistake? Select only the physical glass panels themselves, not the surrounding frames or mullions. If mullions are included in your initial selection, use Shift-click to deselect them before confirming the glass assignment. The most common mistake to avoid is marking the entire facade as glass rather than just the glass panels. This breaks laiout's room alignment logic and will lead to poor generation results.
What do I do after assigning layers? After assigning layers, proceed to the next step: Regions and Circulation. This is where you define the spaces within the floor plan and draw the main corridors that will guide how laiout generates layout options. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
How do I assign regions? When you enter the Regions and Circulation tab, the region selector is automatically active. Click and hold on a region to flood-fill it, similar to the paint bucket tool in image editing software. Repeat this process until you have selected and marked all the regions on your floor plan. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
How do I assign external regions? To mark the external space, click and hold outside the floor plan boundary. This fills the external area, allowing laiout to recognise where natural light enters the building. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
Does laiout recognise lightwells? laiout does not automatically recognise lightwells in a floor plan. To mark a lightwell, select the region using the region selector (click and hold), then change its layer to Lightwell using the dropdown menu. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
Can I mark other regions in laiout PRO? Yes. You can mark any region by clicking and holding when in region selection mode, then change the layer type using the dropdown menu. This allows you to designate areas as specific zone types such as core, amenity or lightwell. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
How do I exclude areas I don't want furnished, such as skylights, double-height voids, or light wells? Use the Edit Region Tool to mark these zones as areas laiout should ignore. Excluded regions will not receive furniture or zoning during generation.
What if I only want to furnish part of a floor? Draw a line across the floor before flood-filling with the Edit Region Tool. This isolates the zone you want to furnish, and only that area will receive furniture and generation. The full floor plan will still appear on export, so you keep the visual context of the wider space.
How can I draw the circulation? Click on the Circulation button to activate corridor drawing mode, then click, hold and drag directly on the floor plan to place corridors. Corridors can be deleted with a double-click, moved by dragging, or resized by clicking and holding the circle at the centre of each segment. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
What is the difference between Save and Mark as Clean? Save preserves your work-in-progress without finalising the file. Mark as Clean signals that the file is ready to generate, and this step is required before you can produce any output. Use Save to pause and return to your cleaning later, and Mark as Clean when you are fully ready to move to generation.
What do I do after cleaning the floor plan? Once the floor plan setup is complete, click the checkmark to mark the floor as complete. This finalises the configuration and enables you to start generating layout options. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
Do I need to annotate stairwells, core rooms etc in Pro? No, it is optional to mark stairwells, core rooms etc. in Pro. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
How to clean a floor in Pro? First, crop the part of the drawing you want to proceed with. This is especially useful if there is more than one floor in the drawing you uploaded. Then assign correct units of the drawing. Within Labeller tool, using various selection modes, delete unwanted elements, label glass panes as Glass, pillars as Pillar, door arcs as Door and anything you want to keep visible but not collidable as Misc or Furniture. Close the door openings with a Draw tool to enclose the space you want to generate in. If there are any openings in walls or windows, close them as well. This will prevent mistakes in the next step, which is filling regions. Open the Regions & Circulation tool and long-click within the area you want to generate in to add an AI-generated region. You can add multiple AI regions if the floor consists of more than one part. Click and hold outside of the building to indicate where the outside is (the region marking outside should be called Exterior). If there are any lightwells or floor openings in your floor, fill them and assign the regions as Lightwell. Optionally you can add other annotations, such as Stairwell or Core Room. As the last step, draw some corridors with Edit Circulation tool. Remember to save your file to not lose your progress. When you're done, mark the floor as clean by clicking on the checkmark button. If any requirements are not fulfilled, you'll get a message listing what needs to be done in order to proceed. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Clean a Complex DWG File with laiout Pro](https://youtu.be/ZnqTNGi5yJY)
My floor plan doesn't work. Why? To ensure floor plan uploaded in Pro works, several steps must be followed. First you need to make sure the Units are correct. There has to be at least one AI-generated region added and Exterior has to be defined within the Region tool. Additionally, at least one corridor (circulation line) has to be drawn. Pillars have to be properly assigned as Pillars in Labeller tool. Frequent cause is an AI-generated region with small holes caused by floating elements within it, such as improperly annotated pillars or small lines which cause an error. If you ensured all of those requirements are met and your floor plan still doesn't work, contact the laiout team and we will assist you with finalising or fixing the floor plan.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Cleaning DXF or DWG Files
How do I clean DXF or DWG in Lite? To clean DXF or DWG in Lite you have to specify its original units first. Then mark the regions you want to generate on, optionally exclude some regions like pillars or core of the building using include/exclude toggle and polygon.rectangle tool. At last, draw the spine of circulation using the circulation tool. Save the progress and you're ready to generate.
*** ## Video Guides ### DWG Cleanup - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Cleaning PDF Files
How do I clean PDF in Lite? To clean PDF in Lite you have to specify its scale first by marking a known dimension with the dimension line. Then mark the regions you want to generate on, optionally exclude some regions like pillars or core of the building using include/exclude toggle and polygon.rectangle tool. At last, draw the spine of circulation using the circulation tool. Save the progress and you're ready to generate.
How do I ensure the scale is correct in the PDF? To ensure your PDF is scaled correctly, it is best to have a confirmed reference dimension of some object in your floor plan, so you can scale the PDF based on that reference. If you don’t know exact dimensions, you can scale your PDF by assuming a default dimensions of some object, fo an instance size of stairwell/bathroom door to be 0.9 m / 3 ft.
# Drawing & Editing Corridors ## Drawing corridors
Is the corridor generated automatically or manually? The corridor is drawn manually at the start of your workflow, giving you full control over its position and path. We are working on automations that will allow you to generate an optimised corridor as a starting point in future updates. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
What is the default corridor width? The default corridor width is 1.5m (60in), which meets most accessibility standards for wheelchair use. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
Is the corridor legally compliant? The default corridor width of 1.5m (60in) is considered the standard width for two wheelchairs to pass next to each other. This is designed to meet common accessibility requirements out of the box, though specific compliance depends on your local regulations. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
Can I have different corridor widths on the same floor? Yes. You can draw multiple corridor segments on the same floor, each with its own width. Use the corridor editor to add any corridor you would like and generate on it. Once done, save the file to have that corridor available at all times. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
Can I draw non-linear or organic corridors? Yes. Create several segments of a corridor and connect the end points to each other. This lets you build curved, angled, or organic circulation paths rather than being limited to a single straight line. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
## Editing corridors before generation
Can I edit the corridor before generating a floor? Yes. Enter Circulation edit mode from the floor page and customise the position, length, and width of each corridor. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
How can I change the corridor width? In Circulation edit mode, click, hold, and drag the circle at the middle of the corridor line. Drag inwards to make the corridor narrower, outwards to make it wider. The number displayed indicates the current width in metres or inches. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
How can I make the corridor longer or shorter? Click, hold, and drag the blue circles at the endpoints of a corridor line. This adjusts the length and positioning of the corridor. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
How can I move the corridor? In Circulation edit mode, click and hold the corridor line you want to move, then drag it to the new position. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
How can I delete a corridor? In Circulation edit mode, double click on the corridor you want to delete. It will be removed from the layout. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
Can I undo the deletion or moving of a corridor? Yes. Use the Undo button on the top bar, or press Ctrl+Z on your keyboard to reverse the change. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
Can I create more than one corridor option? Yes. Create one corridor option, save the resulting layout as a favourite, then create a different corridor version, generate again, and save that as a separate favourite. You can then compare your saved options side by side. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
## Editing corridors after generation
Can I edit corridors after a floor plan has been generated? Yes. With Editable Corridors, you can move, adjust, and refine corridors at any point in your design after generation. The layout automatically regenerates around the updated corridor so you do not need to start again from scratch. **Video guide:** [laiout - Editable Corridors](https://youtu.be/JY5Z4NJ4TXk)
How do I move a corridor on a generated floor? Click and hold the corridor you want to move, then drag it to the new position. When you release the click, the corridor drops into place and the layout regenerates around it automatically. **Video guide:** [laiout - Editable Corridors](https://youtu.be/JY5Z4NJ4TXk)
Does the layout regenerate automatically when I move a corridor? Yes. As soon as you release the corridor in its new position, the layout adjusts around it automatically. There is no need to trigger regeneration manually, and you can see the changes update live as you work. **Video guide:** [laiout - Editable Corridors](https://youtu.be/JY5Z4NJ4TXk)
What happens to zones adjacent to a moved corridor? Adjacent zones adapt to the new corridor position. Smaller rooms may disappear if there is no longer enough space for them, and some zones may merge with neighbours. You will see these changes happen live as you move the corridor, so you can decide whether to keep the new position or undo it. **Video guide:** [laiout - Editable Corridors](https://youtu.be/JY5Z4NJ4TXk)
What are the minimum corridor width constraints? The minimum corridor width is 1m. You can set any width above this threshold to suit your accessibility requirements and space plan. **Video guide:** [laiout - Editable Corridors](https://youtu.be/JY5Z4NJ4TXk)
Does Editable Corridors work in both Pro and Lite mode? Yes. Editable Corridors is available in both Pro and Lite modes, so you can refine circulation on any floor plan regardless of the upload mode used. **Video guide:** [laiout - Editable Corridors](https://youtu.be/JY5Z4NJ4TXk)
In Multi Tenancy mode, how do I set up corridors? Corridors are set up in Circulation edit mode first. Enter Circulation edit mode from the floor page, adjust your corridors as needed, save your file, then enter Multi Tenancy mode to work with tenancy splits. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://youtu.be/MPWJOF7qDwg)
*** ## Video Guides ### Editable Corridors - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Corridor Setup - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Setting Your Preferences
Where can I find preferences? The Preference tab is represented by 3 horizontal lines on the left side of the app. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
How can I set my own requests? All the requests are added in the Preferences tab. This is where it's possible to control the first inputs to generate options. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
Where can I add rooms to my request? In the Preferences panel, it's possible to add Closed Offices, Meeting Rooms and Breakout areas. Once clicked on the label "Closed Offices" it will open a first sub menu where users can add room types, simply clicking on the Plus button. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
Where can I add my space program/requirements? The space program can be added in the Preference tab. You can also upload a brief document and laiout will extract your requirements automatically using Brief Autofill. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
Can I import my space program using Brief Autofill? Yes. Upload a brief document such as a PDF, image, DOCX, or CSV and laiout will read it, extract the requirements automatically, and populate your preferences for you. Uploaded briefs work across multiple languages and various formats. Once the requirements have been extracted, you can review them, edit anything you want to change, and then generate. This removes the manual step of copying details from a brief into laiout by hand. **Video guide:** [laiout - Brief Autofill](https://youtu.be/Y6F60_2LFoI)
What file formats does Brief Autofill support? Brief Autofill supports PDFs, images, DOCX documents, and CSV spreadsheets. If your file is any of these formats, laiout can read it and extract your requirements automatically. **Video guide:** [laiout - Brief Autofill](https://youtu.be/Y6F60_2LFoI)
How do I upload my brief to laiout? You can either drag and drop the file directly into the Preferences panel, or use the file picker to select it from your computer. Both methods work the same way. **Video guide:** [laiout - Brief Autofill](https://youtu.be/Y6F60_2LFoI)
Can I review and edit the extracted preferences before generating? Yes. Once Brief Autofill has extracted your requirements from the uploaded document, they appear in the Preferences panel for you to review. You can adjust any preference before pressing Generate, exactly as if you had entered them manually. **Video guide:** [laiout - Brief Autofill](https://youtu.be/Y6F60_2LFoI)
What kind of briefs work best with Brief Autofill? Brief Autofill is designed to be flexible and works with a wide range of formats. Structured briefs tend to give the cleanest extractions, but the system handles plain-text briefs, tables, and mixed formats too. If you would like example briefs to compare against your own, get in touch with the laiout team. **Video guide:** [laiout - Brief Autofill](https://youtu.be/Y6F60_2LFoI)
Can I combine an uploaded brief with manually set preferences? Yes. Brief Autofill and manual preferences are not mutually exclusive. You can upload a brief to get started and then adjust or add to the extracted preferences by hand before generating, or start with manual preferences and add a brief later. **Video guide:** [laiout - Brief Autofill](https://youtu.be/Y6F60_2LFoI)
Does Brief Autofill work with briefs in different languages? Yes. Brief Autofill supports briefs written in multiple languages and is designed to extract detailed requirements regardless of language. **Video guide:** [laiout - Brief Autofill](https://youtu.be/Y6F60_2LFoI)
How do I set maximum occupancy or desk count? In the project page, where you can see all the floor cards, click on the three dots in the top right of each card. Click again on Set Max Occupancy. You can set a maximum number of occupants or a maximum number of workstations. The algorithm will generate layouts that respect these limits. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
How can I set a maximum number of occupants? In the project page, where you can see all the floor cards, you can click on the 3 dots on the top right of each card. Once clicked you can click again on Settings. Here you can set parameters such as Max Occupancy. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
How do I add more workstations? To add more Workstations you can add them in the Preferences tab, in the field Number of Workstations. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Multiple Workstation Types in One Layout](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lhnPzFRA2o)
Can I add more space typologies with same number of people but different size? Yes. Open the Preferences tab and add each typology as a separate entry, setting the same number of people but a different size for each. This is useful when you want to explore variations of the same space type without changing the overall headcount. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
Can I add more spaces to my request? Yes. Open the Preferences tab and use the Plus button to add additional spaces to your request. You can add as many as you need before generating. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I add spaces not on your list? Yes, through custom zone kinds. Your organisation can define its own zone types beyond the default list, such as a Cinema Space, Gym, or Storage area. Once a custom zone kind has been created, it becomes available in the Preferences panel and can be requested before generation just like any default zone. If you need a space that hasn't been set up yet, you can either create a new custom zone kind first, or add it after generation by editing the floor plan directly. See [Zone Editing Overview](/editing-your-layout/zone-editing-overview) for the full custom zone kinds workflow. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I add custom zones to my request? Yes. Any custom zone kinds already created for your organisation can be added to your preferences and requested before generation. Set the area you want for each instance, and laiout will generate them into your layout automatically. If you need to create a new custom zone kind first, click on any zone while editing your floor plan, select the change icon, and choose Custom to define a new one. See [Zone Editing Overview](/editing-your-layout/zone-editing-overview) for the full workflow. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
How can I set density? Yes. It's possible to set density in the Preferences tab. You can change the density in the Open Workspace area, and in each typology of space editing the sqm/sqft per person. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
How do I adjust sqm/pax? It's possible to set different sqm/sqft per person in the Preferences tab. You can change the density in the Open Workspace area, and in each typology of space editing the sqm/sqft per person. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Why there are some values already filled for meeting rooms or breakout? We aim to help all users to expedite their workflow. Based on the size of the floor plate preferences are prefilled with a request defined in the Company Table. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
How do I change my input? Open the Preferences tab from the left panel, then adjust any input directly. Changes take effect the next time you generate, so you can iterate on your requirements without needing to start again. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to customise default room sizes & occupancy](https://youtu.be/VSMZJ2ksk_U)
Can I edit my request? Yes. Open the Preferences tab and edit any part of your request directly, whether that is adjusting quantities, changing sizes, or removing entries. Your updated request will be used the next time you generate. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I change preferences after generating? Yes. You can just add new requests in the Preferences tab and click on Generate again. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I save my preferences somewhere? The preferences are saved on the floor plan once clicked on Apply in the Preferences tab. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I copy preferences? Yes. It's possible to copy preferences between one floor and another one within the same project. The button is on the top bar of the Preferences tab. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://youtu.be/2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I save my preferences as a template? Yes. You can copy and reuse your floorplan criteria across floors and projects using the copy preferences feature. This lets you duplicate your preferred setup (room types, quantities, density targets, desk types) and apply it to other floors or buildings in seconds, maintaining consistency across your portfolio without re-entering settings each time.
*** ## Video Guides ### Brief Autofill - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Preferences - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Generating Layout Options
What are options? Options are different floor plan solutions built on the requested Preferences. As a rule, they need to differ at least 10% from one another. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
Where do I click to generate? "Generate" button is placed in the middle of the left side bar (represented by laiout logo). It becomes available when you're in the floor view. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
How many options do I get when I generate? When you click "Generate", you get three different layout options each time you click. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
Can I generate more than 3 options? Yes, you can generate more than once, every new click on the Generate button will create three new options. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
What are the symbols on option cards? Symbols visualised in the corners of option cards mark the option that performs the best in some aspect, such as Lowest Cost, Lowest Carbon Footprint, Max Number of Workstations and Highest Area per Employee. Hover over the icon to see what it means. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
Why are stats changing when I hover over the options? When you hover over an option, its individual stats are displayed in the stats panel. This way you can compare stats of different options before opening one of them. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Multi-Tenancy
How to add tenancy regions/tenants? In the Multi Tenancy edit, Just clicking on an empty space will start to create a new region. Click on empty space to add the first vertex (control point) of the region. Continue clicking to add more vertices. You will see that they create a region covering a part of your floor plan. Finish creating the region by clicking on the first vertex to close the shape. When one region is finalised, you can add another one. Remember to save the progress in the top bar. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPWJOF7qDwg)
Can I edit a tenancy region? It's possible to edit a tenancy region in Multi Tenancy edit. Once active, it's possible to drag and edit the position of each vertex/control point of the tenancy region. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPWJOF7qDwg)
How can I make a tenancy region area more precise? In the Multi Tenancy edit, you can use more control points/vertices (each click adds a new control point) to define the perimeter better. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPWJOF7qDwg)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %}
Can I edit a tenancy partition wall? No. The tenancy partition is generated following the tenancy region borders. Moving the tenancy region boundary will move the partition wall position. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPWJOF7qDwg)
How to generate in one tenancy region? In the Multi Tenancy edit, you select one tenancy region and then click generate. This will generate options for that specific region. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPWJOF7qDwg)
How to generate in multiple tenancy regions at once? It's not possible at the moment to generate in more than one tenancy region at the time. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPWJOF7qDwg)
I wanted to generate a tenancy region but it generated the full floor, what should I do? This happens because in the Multi Tenancy edit mode, no specific region was selected. If no region is selected the app will generate on the whole floor. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPWJOF7qDwg)
# Using Overlays
How do I add an overlay? Open the floor you want to add an overlay to, then click Overlay in the top panel. An Upload button will appear. Click it, select the file you want to upload, and adjust the overlay to match the scale of your layout by dragging the corners in or out.
In which upload modes can I use overlays? Overlays are available in both Pro Mode and Serviced by laiout, so you can use them whether you are working on your own floor plan in Pro or reviewing a serviced layout.
What file formats can I upload as an overlay? You can upload overlays as PDF, JPG, or PNG files. This covers the most common export formats from CAD software, image editors, and PDF viewers, so you can bring in almost any reference drawing directly.
Can I upload engineering layers, ceiling drawings, or other reference drawings as an overlay? Yes. Any PDF, JPG, or PNG can be used as an overlay, including engineering layers, ceiling plans, MEP drawings, or any reference visual you want to compare against your layout. Upload the file the same way you would any other overlay, then adjust the scale to match your plan.
How do I turn my overlay on or off? After you upload an overlay and generate a layout, the overlay will automatically turn off so you can see your layout without any obstruction. To turn it back on, click the Overlay button in the top bar. From there you can also adjust the opacity to your preference.
How do I change the opacity or transparency of my overlay? In Overlay mode, adjust the opacity by moving the slider next to the Upload button in the top bar. Lower opacity makes the overlay more transparent, so you can see your layout underneath more clearly.
Can I have more than one overlay uploaded at a time? Currently, one overlay file can be uploaded at a time. If you upload a second file, it will replace the first. Support for multiple overlays is something we are actively working on for a future update.
# Clearance & Spacing Standards
How can I define distances between objects in my floor plan? You can define clearances at company level, in tab Clearance under Presets, available after clicking on your Initial in the upper left corner. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to configure clearance and spacing standards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiLbef8KWEM)
Can I edit workstation clearance? Yes. It's possible to edit workstation clearance by setting new parameters in Presets/Furniture. Once set and updated, the furniture models can be refreshed to reflect the updated data. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Multiple Workstation Types in One Layout](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lhnPzFRA2o)
Can I define max number of desks in a row? Yes, you can define it in Advanced Preferences by inserting the number in the "Max Number of Rows" field. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to configure clearance and spacing standards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiLbef8KWEM)
How can I automatically distance desk rows? It's possible to change the distance between rows of desks by accessing the Advanced Preferences and adjust the Desk to Desk clearance. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to configure clearance and spacing standards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiLbef8KWEM)
Can I set a distance between desk rows? It's possible to change the distance between rows of desks by accessing the Advanced Preferences and adjust the Desk to Desk clearance. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to configure clearance and spacing standards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiLbef8KWEM)
Can I add space between desks to have shelves? It's possible to change the distance between rows of desks by accessing the Advanced Preferences and adjust the Desk to Desk clearance. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to configure clearance and spacing standards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiLbef8KWEM)
Can I define how far from windows furniture can be placed? It's possible to change the distance from windows by accessing the Advanced Preferences and adjust the Window clearance. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to configure clearance and spacing standards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiLbef8KWEM)
Are the distances in my layout legally compliant? The clearance and spacing parameters you can set in the app help you work towards compliance with local regulations. Always verify your layouts against the specific requirements for your region. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to configure clearance and spacing standards](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiLbef8KWEM)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Advanced Preferences
How do I set distances/clearance? It's possible to change the clearances by accessing the Advanced Preferences on floor level, but it's also possible on company level (clearance tab) **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I change the way areas are measured? You are able to choose between GIF/RICS standards. For now you are not able to customise it further. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I define how I want GEA/NIA to be calculated? You are able to choose between GIF/RICS standards. For now you are not able to customise it further. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set & adjust advanced floorplan preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2GQkj6Zx_hA)
Can I define a country my building is in to get the fire exit regulations checked? At the moment we have fire regulations for UK, UAE, China, Germany, USA and Singapore, so you can select one of those in Advanced Preferences. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
What is Enhanced Precision mode? Enhanced Precision mode allows the algorithm to work a bit longer on fullfilling your request so you can get even more accurate results. Toggle it on if you're okay with waiting a little bit longer.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Zone Editing Overview
How do I edit zones? You can adjust zones in multiple ways: change zone types, split or merge zones, adjust their size and position, add or remove walls, and place furniture within them. See the specific pages under Editing Your Layout for each of these workflows.
Can I know details of a space? Yes. Click on any zone to open its details panel, which shows the zone type, area, capacity, and any related metadata.
Can I add walls to a zone? Yes. Use the wall drawing tools to add walls within a zone or along its edges.
Can I change wall type in a zone, i.e. solid to glazed? Yes. Select the wall and change its type using the wall properties menu.
Can I move doors? Yes. Doors can be moved by clicking and dragging them along the wall.
Can I move walls to edit zones? Yes. Select the wall and drag it to a new position. Adjacent zones will resize accordingly.
Can I move circulation to adjust zones? Yes. Corridors can be edited at any point in the design. Move a corridor and the layout regenerates around it automatically.
How do I add an Event Space zone for auditoriums or town halls? Event Space is a native zone type with its own properties and constraints. Add it via the zone picker in the same way as any other zone kind, and it will size and configure appropriately for large gathering areas.
How do I add a Pod Area (Booth) zone for calling pods? Pod Area is a dedicated zone type separate from meeting rooms, with its own icon and colour. Add it via the zone picker and place it wherever you need calling pods within your layout.
What are pre-existing zones? Pre-existing zones are core spaces defined in your floor plan before generation, either drawn in AutoCAD or added in the Pro cleaner. They include Stairwell, Elevator Shaft, Bathroom, Core Room, Terrace, Balcony, and Kitchen. Unlike zone kinds you request in your preferences, these are set in the base file rather than generated by laiout.
Can I edit a pre-existing zone after a layout is generated? Yes. Once a layout is generated, you can change a pre-existing zone to any kind available in the zone change dropdown, which includes default and custom kinds. For example, a Bathroom can be changed into a Breakout. You can also split and merge pre-existing zones like any other. Note that you cannot change a zone into a kind that is not in the dropdown, such as Elevator Shaft.
Can I change a pre-existing zone back to its original kind? Once you change a pre-existing zone to a selectable kind, you cannot switch it back to its original core kind, because pre-existing kinds are not in the zone change dropdown. To reverse an unintended change, use Undo, or return to an option or an empty floor plan where the change was not made. The original kind is always preserved in the base file.
Do my zone changes affect the original floor plan? No. Changes apply only to the option you edited, to new options generated after the change, and to any favourites you save in that state. The base file is untouched. If you return to an empty floor plan, the zone appears as it was originally defined. For example, if you change a Bathroom to a Breakout and save it as a favourite, new options show it as a Breakout, but the empty floor plan still shows a Bathroom.
Can I predefine regular zone kinds, not just core zones? Yes. Alongside core pre-existing zones, you can predefine regular zone kinds in your base file, for example a shape intended as a Meeting Room. This can be done in the Pro cleaner or in AutoCAD. Zones predefined in AutoCAD disappear once circulation is edited, so the Pro cleaner is the more reliable option for these.
What is a Terrace zone and how does it differ from a Balcony? Terrace is an outdoor zone kind that behaves almost identically to Balcony. The key difference is that a Terrace has no ceiling in the 3D view, so it renders as a fully open outdoor space. Both Terrace and Balcony remain available. During cleaning, choose whichever matches the space you are working with: Balcony if the outdoor area has a ceiling above it, Terrace if it is fully open to the sky.
Where in the zone picker do Terrace and Balcony appear? Terrace and Balcony are not zones you request in preferences or select through zone change. Like Bathroom, Stairwell, and Elevator Shaft, they are pre-existing zones defined before generation, either drawn in AutoCAD or added in the Pro cleaner.
Can I place furniture on a Terrace or Balcony zone? Yes. Furniture can be placed on Terrace and Balcony zones in the same way as on interior zones.
Does Terrace count towards NIA or GEA? Yes. Terrace is counted towards both NIA and GEA, the same as Balcony.
In 3D view, is the Terrace fully open or is there partial covering? A Terrace is rendered as fully open in 3D view, with no ceiling above.
What is a custom zone kind? A custom zone kind is a zone type your organisation has defined in addition to the default zone kinds included in laiout. Examples include a Cinema Space, Bike Room, Gym, or Storage area, any space type that reflects how your team plans regularly. Once created, custom zone kinds behave the same way as default zone kinds and can be used across your projects.
How do I create a custom zone kind for my organisation? Click on any existing zone in your layout, select the change icon, and choose Custom. From there you can define a name for the new zone kind and add a symbol so it becomes part of your organisation's zone library.
How do I request a custom zone kind in my preferences? Open the Preferences panel and add your custom zone kind alongside the default zone types. You can create a brand new custom zone kind directly in the panel by selecting Add, then Custom, and naming it and choosing an icon. Any custom zone kinds already created in your organisation also appear here for you to select. Add either to your request before generation, so laiout can generate them into your layout automatically.
How do I set the size of a custom zone request? Custom zone requests are area-based. In your preferences, specify a total area for each instance of a custom zone kind. For example, request a 100 sqm Gym, or five 10 sqm Storage rooms, depending on how you need each space to be sized.
Can I request multiple instances of the same custom zone kind? Yes. Add as many instances of a custom zone kind as you need within the same preferences setup, each at whatever size you require. This is useful when you need several rooms of the same type, such as multiple Storage rooms or a set of identical Gyms.
Do custom zone kinds appear differently from default zones in my layout? Custom zone kinds appear in your generated layout at the sizes you requested, styled according to how you set them up (name, symbol, and any other properties defined at creation). You can identify and interact with them in the same way as default zones.
Do custom zone kinds work in both Pro and Lite mode? Yes. Custom zone kinds are available in both Pro and Lite modes, so you can create and request them regardless of the upload mode you are working in.
Can I still add custom zone kinds manually after generation? Yes. The manual placement workflow is fully supported. You can request custom zones in your preferences to have them generated automatically, add them manually after generation by editing your floor plan, or combine both approaches within the same project.
# Changing Zone Types
How do I change zone typology/type? You can click on a Zone and this will activate the Zone edit options. Once clicked on the Change button, it will show you different space types to choose from. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use the Zone Menu for Edits and Adjustments](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KnWQ1swh2g)
How do I add a custom zone? Click on a zone, click on change icon and then select Custom. This will allow you to create a custom zone. You can also add them in Zones and Colours tab. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use the Zone Menu for Edits and Adjustments](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KnWQ1swh2g)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Splitting & Merging Zones
How to use Manual Split? In the Zone edit settings you can click on the Manual Split button, then you can select two points on the zone boundary that will split the space. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Manual Split For Zones](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Znf3iBnAW10)
Can I edit multiple zones at once? Yes. It is possible to change the use of multiple zones at the same time or merge zones that are adjacent and of the same typology. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Manual Split For Zones](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Znf3iBnAW10)
How do I split zones in a way that they have an exact area/dimensions? Yes, it is possible to split manually spaces to align with your needs.
Can I split multiple times at once? No. It's possible to do one zone split at a time. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Manual Split For Zones](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Znf3iBnAW10)
Can I have non-rectangular zones? Yes. It is possible also to manually split a space using the Manual Split button in the Zone edit, then you can select two points on the zone boundary that will split the space. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Manual Split For Zones](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Znf3iBnAW10)
Can I merge zones of different types? No. It is not possible to merge zones of different types. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Manual Split For Zones](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Znf3iBnAW10)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Freezing Zones
What does the freeze button do? The freezing locks the selection to preserve the zone(s) selected.
Can I keep some zones in the newly generated options? Yes. It's possible to select a Zone, click on the lock button to freeze a zone. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate floorplans and review the best options](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kafCZMHpeRw)
Can I save zones I like? Yes. It's possible to select a Zone, click on the lock button to freeze a zone.
I want to change zone type but save the furniture. What do I do? There is no direct way to change zone type but save the furniture. When changing the zone type, the furniture will be refreshed.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Furniture Overview
How does furniture work in laiout? laiout includes a built-in furniture library with a range of standard desk sizes, meeting tables, breakout furniture and amenities. You can also upload your own custom furniture using RFA (Revit) files via the Furniture Catalogue in your organisation settings. Furniture presets let you configure default desk dimensions (S/M/L) or your own at the company level. During layout generation, furniture is placed automatically based on your preferences. After generation, you can edit, swap or adjust individual pieces using the zone editing tools. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set furniture presets for your organisation](https://youtu.be/ReNTyZEms88)
Can I see furniture in 3D? Yes. When you switch to 3D view, all placed furniture renders in full 3D with accurate dimensions and proportions. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Furniture Library & Drawer
What is a furniture piece/group? A furniture piece is a furniture item, like a chair, sofa, table, reception counter. A group is a set of furniture pieces. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set furniture presets for your organisation](https://youtu.be/ReNTyZEms88)
Where can I find furniture pieces? You can find furniture drawer/library by clicking on a sofa button on the left side panel. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set furniture presets for your organisation](https://youtu.be/ReNTyZEms88)
How to use furniture drawer? Find the furniture drawer in the left side panel. There you can see furniture organised into 2 categories: laiout- and company-uploaded. Each of those is divided into pieces and groups. Use the search bar to navigate through various categories of furniture. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set furniture presets for your organisation](https://youtu.be/ReNTyZEms88)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Placing & Editing Furniture
How do I copy a furniture piece/group? To copy a furniture piece or group, click on it. A menu will appear. Click on the "copy" button and drag the copy of your furniture to place it where desired. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
How do I create furniture groups? You can select some pieces or groups and group them by clicking on a "Group" button, however currently you cannot reuse groups created in this way in other floor plans. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Can I mirror furniture? You can mirror furniture pieces and groups that have "mirrorable" attribute. Flip action places a copy of the furniture rotated by 180 degrees. For laiout furniture we define which ones are mirrorable, users can add this attribute to the uploaded pieces. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Can I save furniture set and use it across my floors? No, currently you cannot save a furniture set and use it in other floor plans. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Can I copy furniture between floors? No, currently you cannot copy furniture between floors. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Can I move furniture precisely by some distance? No, currently you cannot move furniture precisely by some distance, however you can use ruler to measure the distance between objects in your floorplan. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Can I replace/swap furniture? You can replace/swap furniture. To do so, drop an item you want to have onto the item you want to replace. In case of pieces, you can either replace just one or all instances. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - In Practise / The key design principles for creating a successful floor plan](https://youtu.be/VO8xFWsU1TQ)
Can I place furniture on balconies and terraces? Yes. Balconies and terraces are identified as external zones during the upload and cleaning stage, either automatically or by you. Once identified, you can place furniture on them just like any internal zone. There are no hard restrictions on furniture type, though outdoor-suitable items are recommended for realistic planning. This functionality works in both Pro and Lite mode.
Why do furniture and doors now stay unassigned until I deselect them? Furniture and doors now stay unassigned until you deselect them. Previously, they were automatically assigned to the nearest zone the moment they were placed. This change gives you more control during placement, letting you freely position items that span multiple zones or sit in transitional areas without being prematurely locked to a specific zone. The item is assigned to the appropriate zone once you click away or confirm the placement.
How do AutoDimensions work when moving objects? AutoDimensions show dynamic dimension lines when an object is selected, displaying distances to nearby walls and other objects. The lines update in real-time as you move the object, helping you maintain clearances and align elements precisely. AutoDimensions apply to most placeable objects including furniture, doors, and partition walls. You can toggle AutoDimensions on or off at any time.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Desk Sizes & Workstation Types
Can I create my desk sizes? Yes, you can edit existing workstation types and add new ones in Presets > Furniture. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Multiple Workstation Types in One Layout](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lhnPzFRA2o)
How do I preset furniture? You can preset desks in Presets > Furniture. Additionally, you can edit cost and co2 cost in Materials & Costs tab. Currently you cannot create other presets. When you upload furniture, you can set up it's attributes, category and cost in the upload window. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set furniture presets for your organisation](https://youtu.be/ReNTyZEms88)
How can I select the default desk size? To select the default desk size, go to Presets > Furniture, hover over the desk you want to set as default and click on a button "set as default" **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Multiple Workstation Types in One Layout](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lhnPzFRA2o)
Can I add multiple desk sizes? Yes, you can add new workstation sizes in Presets > Furniture. To use multiple desk sizes across one floor plan, after generating with one of the desk sizes, change the desk size in Advanced Preferences, click "Apply" and select a zone in which you want to use the new desk size and refresh it. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Use Multiple Workstation Types in One Layout](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lhnPzFRA2o)
Can I have multiple desk sizes at once within the same floor? Yes. To do so, after generating a floor with one of the desk sizes, change the desk size in Advanced Preferences, click "Apply" and select a zone in which you want to use the new desk size and refresh it.
Can I preset Meeting Room tables? No, currently you cannot preset Meeting Room tables.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Custom Furniture Upload
Can I upload my own furniture? Yes. The Custom Furniture Uploader lets you bring your own furniture into laiout. You can upload Revit (RFA) files, which the platform reads and adds to your furniture library alongside the built-in catalogue. Once uploaded, your custom furniture is available to place in any project. During upload, you set key attributes for each item including model name, brand, seating capacity, cost and carbon data. Your custom pieces then appear in the furniture drawer and are used in generated layouts, with accurate 2D and 3D representation. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Upload & Use Your Own Furniture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DO7oDdbcjA)
Do I have to provide 3d model to upload furniture? The Custom Furniture Uploader currently supports Revit (RFA) files, which include 3D geometry. When you upload an RFA file, the furniture is displayed in both 2D and 3D views and is included in 3D exports (Revit, IFC, OBJ). If you need to upload furniture that you only have in 2D format, contact the laiout team at to discuss options. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Upload & Use Your Own Furniture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DO7oDdbcjA)
What file formats are supported in furniture uploader? The Custom Furniture Uploader currently supports Revit (RFA) files. This way the platform reads the geometry for both 2D and 3D representation. Support for additional file formats may be added in future updates. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Upload & Use Your Own Furniture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DO7oDdbcjA)
Can I upload 2D furniture as well as 3D? Yes. Upload 2D furniture through the same upload modal you use for 3D, selecting the 2D format during upload. Supported formats include PNG, SVG, and DXF. 2D furniture appears in plan view as a flat representation and in 3D view as a low-profile placeholder. For best results, PNG files should have transparent backgrounds, and all uploaded furniture should be sized to match real-world dimensions.
How do I upload custom furniture? Open the Furniture Catalog from the left panel and navigate to the company-uploaded section. Click the upload button and drag and drop your RFA file into the uploader. The platform reads the file and presents a preview. You then set the item attributes: model name, brand, seating capacity, cost and carbon data. Once saved, the furniture appears in your company library and is available across all projects in your organisation. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Upload & Use Your Own Furniture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DO7oDdbcjA)
Can other team members use furniture I have uploaded? Yes. Custom furniture uploaded to your organisation is available to all users in your account. Once you upload an item, any team member with access can find it in the company-uploaded section of the Furniture Catalog and place it in their projects. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Upload & Use Your Own Furniture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DO7oDdbcjA)
Can I edit the attributes of uploaded furniture after saving? Yes. You can update the name, brand, cost, carbon data and other attributes of uploaded furniture items from the Furniture Catalog. Changes apply across all future placements. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Upload & Use Your Own Furniture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DO7oDdbcjA)
Does custom furniture appear in exports? Yes. Custom furniture uploaded as RFA files appears in all export formats: 2D in CAD/DXF and PDF exports, and 3D in Revit, IFC and OBJ exports. The original RFA families you uploaded are used in the Revit export, preserving your specifications. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to Upload & Use Your Own Furniture](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DO7oDdbcjA)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # 3D View & Walkthroughs
How do I open 3D view? The 3D view can be activated by clicking on the 3D button on the top bar after generating a floor plan. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
How do I navigate in 3D view? It is possible to navigate in 3D view by click and holding the left button of the mouse or panning by holding the right click. You can also adjust your camera with keyboard arrows. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I see zone colours in 3D view? Yes. It is possible to activate Zone Visibility while in 3D view. The Zone Visibility button is on the top bar. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
How do I start a walk-through? The Walkthrough can be activated by double clicking on the 3D model. This will allow you to enter inside the floor plan. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
How do I navigate in 1st person mode? It is possible to navigate the 1st person mode view by double-clicking on the location where you want to go or using the arrow keys on the computer. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I change camera height in 3D view? It is possible to change the camera height on the settings in the top bar of the 3D view. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I adjust the height of the floor in 3d? Yes, you can adjust the 3D view vertical dimensions in Floor Settings. In Floors page, click on the 3 dots in the upper right corner of floor card and go to Settings. There you can adjust Floor to Ceiling Height and Floor to Window Sill Height. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I share a 3D view? Yes. It is possible to share a 3D view either with a Shared Link or with the PDF export. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I export 3D view? It is possible to export 3D model representing your option. The view itself is not exportable, but you can export Revit, IFC and OBJ file. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I take screenshots of the 3D view? Yes. In the 3D view, you can capture the current perspective as an image. This is useful for including 3D visuals in presentations or sharing with stakeholders. You can also add 3D views to your PDF exports using the PDF builder, which lets you compose multi-page presentations with floorplans, 3D views, charts and branding elements. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I get a nicer render in 3D view? Yes. From the 3D viewer, click the AI Renders button to generate photorealistic visualisations of your layout. You can choose from ten predefined style presets (ranging from Industrial Modern to Luxury Executive), write your own custom prompt, upload a reference image to guide the style, or upload a photo of the actual view from the building to create realistic window scenes. Renders are generated in seconds to minutes directly within the platform. AI Renders is available as a premium add-on.
Can I change colours of 3D view? No. It is not currently possible to change colours of the 3D view, but you can toggle Schematic View on to make the model white, and turn on Zones VIsibility to see the Zone colours. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I change materials of 3D view? No. It is not currently possible to change materials of the 3D view. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I get an isometric 3D view? No. We currently have only the perspective view available **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I view my layout in orthographic or axonometric projection? Yes. Both views are available from the camera dropdown in the 3D viewer toolbar. Orthographic views show the layout without perspective distortion, meaning parallel lines stay parallel; this is particularly useful for technical drawings and architectural reviews. Axonometric is an angled projection that combines elements of top-down and side views in a single image. You can switch freely between perspective, orthographic, and axonometric during a session.
How do I switch to a 2-point perspective view? 2-point perspective is available in the same camera dropdown as the other view modes. It keeps vertical lines straight, with no convergence at the top or bottom, giving the view a more architectural and natural feel. Walkthrough functionality remains available in all camera modes, so you can move through your space in any view type.
Can I change FOV in 3D view? No. It is currently not available **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
Can I edit my floor in 3D view? No. It is not currently possible to edit the floor in 3D view **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to generate and explore 3D models of your floorplans](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjxC7PTbct8)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # AI Renders Overview
What is AI Renders? AI Renders is a premium feature that transforms your laiout floor plans into photorealistic visualisations. Accessible from within the 3D viewer, AI Renders generates static images and animated visualisations in seconds to minutes, directly within the platform. You can choose from ten predefined interior styles, write your own custom prompt, upload a reference image to guide the aesthetic, or upload a photo of the actual view from the building to create realistic window scenes. The output is comparable to low-to-mid-tier 3D visualisation agency work, produced instantly and at a fraction of the cost.
Is AI Renders included in my subscription? AI Renders is available as a premium add-on. Contact the laiout team or speak with your account manager to learn more about pricing and access.
What is the quality level of AI Renders output? AI Renders produces photorealistic output comparable to low-to-mid-tier 3D visualisation agency work. It is designed for decision-support visualisation such as stakeholder presentations, leasing materials, early-stage design exploration, and marketing assets. It is not intended to replace final construction documentation or high-end architectural photography. Think of it as the visual equivalent of what laiout does for test-fits: a credible, professional-grade starting point produced in seconds rather than weeks.
How long does a render take to generate? Renders are typically generated in seconds to minutes, depending on the complexity of the layout and the style applied. This compares to the traditional process of briefing an external visualisation agency, which typically takes days to weeks per image.
Can I download or share renders? Yes. Generated renders can be downloaded as image files and used in presentations, marketing materials, client packs, and digital listings. They can also be included in PDF exports and Shared Links, giving stakeholders a photorealistic view alongside the floor plan and data.
Can I include AI Renders in my PDF exports? Yes. Within the PDF export view, an "AI" button on each page lets you add AI Renders to that specific page. A pop-up then appears so you can select which renders to include. You have full control over which renders appear and how they are arranged across your PDF pages, allowing you to design the document the way you want it to be presented.
Can I include AI Renders in my Shared Links? Yes. When creating or editing a Shared Link, a toggle lets you include AI Renders. This is on by default when renders exist for the layout, and you can choose which specific renders are visible to external viewers. Recipients see the renders in a dedicated gallery alongside the floor plan and statistics.
## Where to next Once you have a feel for what AI Renders can do, the following pages cover the specifics of each part of the workflow: * [Generating AI Renders](/visualising-your-space/generating-ai-renders) walks through how to produce a render, including camera control, Aerial Renders, and exterior view uploads. * [Styles and Prompts](/visualising-your-space/styles-and-prompts) covers style presets, custom styles, Lock Style, and how to save and reuse render prompts across your organisation. * [Refining Renders](/visualising-your-space/refining-renders) covers Select & Edit and reference image support, for making targeted changes to specific areas of an existing render. *** ## Video Guides ### Introducing AI Renders - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Generating AI Renders
How do I access AI Renders? From any generated layout, switch to the 3D viewer and click the AI Renders button. This opens the render panel where you can select a style preset, enter a custom prompt, upload a reference image, or upload an exterior view photo. Click generate and the render is produced within seconds to minutes depending on complexity. If you need additional support, contact us.
How do I create an AI Render from the 2D floor plan? Yes, you can now generate AI Renders directly from your 2D floor plan, without switching into the 3D or first-person view first. While viewing your 2D plan, click the AI Render button to add a camera, then position it where you want the shot taken from. The camera sets the viewpoint for your render, in the same way positioning the view does in 3D. This gives you a faster path to a render while staying in the 2D workspace, and is available where you have the AI Renders add-on.
Can I preview the render before generating it? Yes. Once you place a camera on the 2D plan, you can see a preview of the 3D scene from that camera position before you render. This lets you check the framing and adjust the camera before spending a render.
Where do I activate Aerial Render mode? Enter the 3D model view and navigate to the position you want to render from. Then press the AI Render button in your toolbar, set your preset to lock in your style, and press generate to create an Aerial Render from that view. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders Aerial](https://youtu.be/l1N-Mw_PMQE)
How do I set the camera angle, height, or position for an Aerial Render? In the 3D model view you can freely move to any camera angle, height, or position that suits your requirements. Once you have the view you want, generate your AI render directly from that position. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders Aerial](https://youtu.be/l1N-Mw_PMQE)
Can I save a preferred camera position for reuse? Saving preferred camera positions is a future capability we are exploring. For now, navigate to the view you want each time before generating the render. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders Aerial](https://youtu.be/l1N-Mw_PMQE)
Does rendering from 2D replace the 3D render workflow? No. Rendering from 2D is an additional, faster route, not a replacement. You can still enter the 3D view to position the camera and render from there whenever you prefer. Both paths produce the same AI Renders.
Does Aerial Render replace the default AI Render, or is it an additional option? Aerial Render is an additional option. You have full control to render from anywhere above your floor plan, or drop into the plan and render from within the design itself, so both aerial and interior perspectives remain available. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders Aerial](https://youtu.be/l1N-Mw_PMQE)
Does Aerial Render work with Lock Style and Select & Edit? Yes. Aerial Renders are fully compatible with Lock Style and Select & Edit, exactly like the default render view. See [Styles and Prompts](/visualising-your-space/styles-and-prompts) and [Refining Renders](/visualising-your-space/refining-renders) for more. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders Aerial](https://youtu.be/l1N-Mw_PMQE)
How do exterior view uploads work? Upload a photo taken from the window of the building, and AI Renders integrates it into the visualisation. The generated image shows the interior layout with the actual view from that specific floor visible through the windows. This creates a realistic sense of place that generic renders cannot match, and is particularly effective for leasing presentations and stakeholder alignment where location is a selling point.
Can I add my company branding to renders? Yes. You can incorporate client or company logos, preferred colour palettes, and reference imagery into the render generation process. This means visuals feel bespoke rather than generic, which is particularly valuable for landlord marketing materials, broker pitch decks, and operator website imagery.
*** ## Video Guides ### Introducing AI Renders - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Aerial Render - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### AI Renders from 2D - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Styles and Prompts
What style presets are available? AI Renders includes ten predefined interior style presets: Industrial Modern Office, Timeless Workspace, Lawyer (Executive Legal Office), Corporate (Clean Modern Executive), Startup (Creative Energetic Workspace), Scandinavian (Bright Soft Natural), Minimalist (Pure Clean Architectural), Industrial Chic (Raw Materials Stylish), Futuristic Techno-Modern, and Luxury Executive. Each preset generates a distinct aesthetic applied to your floor plan layout. You can also add more furniture items to each preset.
Can I create my own render style? Yes, in three ways. First, you can write a custom text prompt describing the aesthetic you want. Second, you can upload a style reference image of an interior style you want the render to follow (this applies to the whole render). Third, you can combine a preset with an exterior view photo from the actual building to create a visualisation that reflects both the interior style and the real location. These options give you full control over the visual output. Note that style reference images are different from Select & Edit reference images, which target specific areas of an existing render, see [Refining Renders](/visualising-your-space/refining-renders) for details.
How do I use Lock Style for consistent AI Renders? Use the Lock Style toggle in the AI Renders panel. When activated, all renders you generate from that point onwards will maintain the same visual aesthetic, including lighting, materials, mood, and overall rendering treatment. This is particularly useful for creating cohesive client presentations across multiple views or floors of the same project. Toggle Lock Style off whenever you want to vary the style again. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders Locked Styles](https://youtu.be/enjaUdNom_k)
Can I save and reuse AI Render prompts? Yes. A save icon next to the prompt input field lets you store any prompt for future use. Saved prompts are shared across your organisation and accessible in every project, appearing alongside laiout's pre-generated prompts when you open the prompts list. You can edit or delete a saved prompt at any time from the same list. **Video guide:** [laiout - Saved AI Render Prompts](https://youtu.be/XNrxviTUegs)
*** ## Video Guides ### Locked Styles - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Saved Prompts - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Refining Renders
Can I refine or iterate on a render? Yes. AI Renders supports two refinement paths. To try a completely different direction, adjust your style preset, prompt, or reference image and generate again from scratch. To make targeted changes to specific areas of an existing render, use Select & Edit to refine just that section while keeping the rest of the image intact. Both approaches are fast, so you can iterate freely until you land on the direction that works best.
How do I use Select & Edit to refine part of an AI Render? Use the freeform brush tool to draw over the specific area you want to refine. A pop-up will then appear where you can enter a new prompt describing the change you want for that area. laiout will regenerate just that section while keeping the rest of the render intact. You can undo any Select & Edit change to revert to the previous version, and Select & Edit works on any existing AI Render in your project. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders + Select & Edit](https://youtu.be/n5ZH71Aq2X0)
How do I upload a reference image within the Select & Edit flow? When drawing on the image with the Select & Edit brush, a pop-up appears where you can add a reference image alongside your prompt. Upload the image directly from the pop-up to guide the Select & Edit result. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders + Select & Edit](https://youtu.be/n5ZH71Aq2X0)
What file formats are supported for Select & Edit reference images? You can upload JPEG and JPG files as reference images for Select & Edit. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders + Select & Edit](https://youtu.be/n5ZH71Aq2X0)
Is the reference image applied only to the selected Select & Edit area? The reference image is applied to the whole image being generated rather than only to the selected Select & Edit area. This means the reference influences the overall aesthetic direction of the regeneration, not just the brushed section. If you want to guide the overall style of a render from scratch rather than refine an existing one, see the style reference image approach on [Styles and Prompts](/visualising-your-space/styles-and-prompts). **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders + Select & Edit](https://youtu.be/n5ZH71Aq2X0)
Can I use multiple reference images in a single Select & Edit edit? One reference image can be added at a time in a single Select & Edit action. If you want to explore multiple visual directions, run separate Select & Edit actions with different reference images. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders + Select & Edit](https://youtu.be/n5ZH71Aq2X0)
What kind of reference images work best? Detailed and precise images work best, rather than moodboards with lots of information. If you want something very specific, add it in the written prompt alongside the reference image, so the system has both visual and textual guidance. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders + Select & Edit](https://youtu.be/n5ZH71Aq2X0)
Can I use text prompts alongside a reference image? Yes. Text prompts and reference images can be combined in the same Select & Edit action, giving you both descriptive and visual control over the result. **Video guide:** [laiout - AI Renders + Select & Edit](https://youtu.be/n5ZH71Aq2X0)
## Related * [AI Renders Overview](/visualising-your-space/ai-renders-overview) for how AI Renders fits into the wider workflow, quality expectations, and where the output can be used. * [Styles and Prompts](/visualising-your-space/styles-and-prompts) for defining and locking the visual style of your renders before you refine them. *** ## Video Guides ### Select & Edit - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Statistics & Metrics
What metrics does laiout show? laiout displays a comprehensive set of real-time metrics including: total area (GEA/NIA), area efficiency percentage, desk/workstation count, total occupancy capacity, density (sqm per person), room counts by type, area distribution by zone type (percentage and sqm), estimated fit-out cost breakdown (furniture, partitions, custom items), carbon/CO2 estimates, and a full bill of quantities. These metrics update live as you edit your layout. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %}
What is NIA/GEA and how is it calculated? The NIA and GEA are calculated based on RICS or GIF parameters. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
What is efficiency? The utility of the space as measured in percentage of NIA. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Where can I check my room count? It is possible to check from the Zones Statistics in the Statistics Panel. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Can I check area distribution percentage? It is possible to check from the Areas Statistics in the Statistics Panel. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Can I calculate what is the floor area divided per type of zone? It is possible to check from the Zones Statistics in the Statistics Panel. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Can I export floor plan statistics? Yes. You can download the statistics of the floor plan from Export/CSV. This will have all the breakdown of data. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Can I hide costs from the list? No, costs cannot be hidden in the stats panel. It is possible to exclude the costs from the exports (PDF and Shared Links) **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
# Saving Favourites & Comparing Options
What are favourites? A favourite is a saved layout you can access at any time in the app. Favourites are available to every member of your organisation. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Can I save my layout somewhere? Yes. Save your layout by clicking the Star button in the top right panel. It will be saved under Favourites. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
How do I access my favourites? You can access your favourites by clicking the Favourites tab in the generated options panel. Alternatively, from the Project view, click the three dots next to the floor you want to look into and select Favourites. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Can I sort my favourites? Yes. Favourites can be sorted by date saved and by name, so you can quickly find the version you are looking for regardless of how many favourites you have. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Where is the sort control for favourites? The sort control sits at the top of the Favourites list, via a dropdown menu. Choose your preferred sort option to reorder the list immediately. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Does my chosen sort order persist across sessions? Yes. Your preferred sort order is remembered the next time you open your Favourites list, so you do not need to reset it every time. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Can I reorder favourites manually by drag and drop? Manual drag and drop reordering is not supported. To reorder your favourites, use the sort options at the top of the list, or rename favourites so they group differently under an A to Z sort. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Does sorting apply within a project or across all favourites in my organisation? Sort applies within the Favourites list for the current project. Each project has its own favourites list and its own remembered sort preference. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
What information is shown for each saved favourite? Each saved favourite stores the full set of statistics generated when the layout was created, including desk count, NIA, GEA, and zone breakdown. To view the detailed information for a specific favourite, click into it from the favourites list. The metrics shown are the same as those generated alongside the original layout, ensuring you can compare options on a like-for-like basis.
Can I edit saved layouts? You can edit saved favourites. To do so, open the favourite, edit it, and click Save to overwrite it, or click Save As to save it as a separate layout.
How do I save a new favourite without overwriting the original one? If you edited a favourite and do not want to overwrite the original, click Save As. Your new layout will be saved as a separate favourite. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Can I copy a favourite? Yes. Open the three-dot menu on any favourite and select Duplicate. This creates an independent editable copy of the favourite in the same favourites folder, with all metadata included (name, statistics, notes). When duplicating, you can type a new name for the copy. The copy can then be edited independently of the original. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Can I generate based on a favourite? Yes. Open a favourite, freeze parts you like, and generate new options. The app will generate based on the current request set in preferences. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Can I edit circulation in a favourite? Yes. You can now edit circulation within a saved favourite using the Editable Corridors capability. Move corridors at any point and the layout regenerates around them automatically, so you can refine circulation on a saved layout without starting again from scratch. **Video guide:** [laiout - How to Mark a Final Design](https://youtu.be/ei8Q_zZwqc8)
Can I check fire safety compliance for a previously saved favourite? Yes. The Regulations tab is available when viewing a previously saved favourite. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # laiout Hub
What is laiout Hub? laiout Hub is your centralised library for all your floor plans. It provides a single place to store, organise, and access every plan across your portfolio, making them easily searchable and usable by anyone on your team, regardless of CAD experience. It is particularly powerful for tenants and organisations managing large portfolios who need everything in one accessible place, and comes as part of your standard laiout subscription rather than as a separate product.
What does portfolio intelligence mean in laiout Hub? Portfolio intelligence is the ability to view, understand, and compare all of your floor plans in a single analytics view. Rather than opening each plan individually, you can see your entire portfolio at a glance and quickly identify trends, differences, and opportunities across your spaces.
What key metrics are available in the Hub view? The Hub view shows the information you attach to each floor plan when you upload or create it, such as location, size, and any notes you add. This flexibility means you can tailor the details you track to the specific needs of your portfolio.
Who has access to laiout Hub? laiout Hub is available to every user on your team. There are no separate access restrictions, so everyone with a laiout account can view and work within the Hub.
Is laiout Hub included in my subscription? Yes. laiout Hub is included as part of your standard laiout subscription at no extra cost. There is no separate add-on to purchase.
How does laiout Hub interact with my existing floor plans and projects? Every floor plan and project you create in laiout is automatically added to your Hub. There is no manual syncing or linking required, so your Hub always stays up to date with everything you are working on.
Can I add, edit, or archive floor plans from within the Hub view? Yes. You can add new floor plans, edit existing ones, and delete plans directly from the Hub view without needing to navigate away.
# Shared Links
How can I share my layout? To share your layout, you have to save it as a favourite first. Click on 3 dots in the upper right corner of the floor card representing your favourite or while you have it open on export button and select 'Share'. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Can I share a favourite? Yes, you can share a favourite by clicking on 3 dots in the upper right corner of the floor card representing your favourite, or while you have it open, on export button and select 'Share'. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Can I share an option that is not a favourite? No, to share an option via Shared Link functionality it has to be saved as a favourite. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
What elements can I add/hide in my shared link? In shared link modal you can customise your link and its content. You can decide what stats to include (areas, zones, co2, costs, gea and nia) or you can hide all of them. You can also decide whether to add 3d view and if you do, you can set it as default, so whoever opens the link will see 3d first. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Can I share 3d of my space? Yes, you can share 3d view of your layout. Optionally you can set the 3d layout as default by checking the "3D as default" checkbox, so whoever opens the link will see 3d first. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Where can I find my links? You can find and manage links shared by your organisation in share links tab, available after clicking on your Initial in the upper left corner. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Where do I access my shared links? You can access your links in Share Links tab, available after clicking on Initial button. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
How do I restrict access to my link? You can restrict access to your link by creating a whitelist of emails and requiring the viewer to input their email address. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
How do I add a whitelist to my link? When you create your link, under Viewing requirements select "Require email to view" from the dropdown list and check the "List emails allowed to access the link" checkbox. The viewers will be able to view your link only after inserting one of the email addresses listed there. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
How do I make my link never expiring? To create a link that never expires, mark the "No Expiry" checkbox when creating a shared link. For existing links, go to Share Links tab, click on the 3 dots next to a link you want to update, and choose "Remove expiration date" **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
How do I check visitors of my link? To check visitors of your link, you have to have Share Links tab activated for your organisation. You also need to change viewing requirements to "require an email to view". Visitors of your link will be listed in Share links tab. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Can I embed a link onto my website? Yes. It is possible to add the Shared Link to your website. While creating the link, remember to set the accessibility to everyone. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Can stakeholders edit layouts via shared links? Shared links are view-only by default. Stakeholders can explore the 2D layout, switch between favourites, view 3D models and review metrics, but they cannot edit the layout directly. This ensures your design remains intact while giving stakeholders the interactive experience they need to provide feedback and make decisions. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
Can I include AI Renders in my Shared Link? Yes. When creating or editing a Shared Link, a toggle lets you include AI Renders. The toggle is on by default when renders exist for the layout, and you can choose which specific renders are visible to external viewers. Recipients see them in a dedicated gallery alongside the floor plan and stats. For more details on AI Renders, see the [AI Renders page](/visualising-your-space/ai-renders-overview).
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Live Listings
How do I create a Live Listing? There is no separate code to generate. Any Shared Link you create through the export view also works as a Live Listing. Copy the Shared Link URL and use it as the source in your webpage's iframe. See [Shared Links](/sharing-and-exporting/shared-links) for how to create a Shared Link. **Video guide:** [laiout - Shared Links and Website Embeds](https://youtu.be/A-_p3sKrXZE)
What format do Live Listings use? Live Listings use a standard HTML iframe. Paste the Shared Link URL as the src attribute of an iframe on your webpage and your live floor plan will appear within your site. **Video guide:** [laiout - Shared Links and Website Embeds](https://youtu.be/A-_p3sKrXZE)
Are there recommended sizing or aspect ratio guidelines for a Live Listing? There are no fixed size or aspect ratio requirements. Your Live Listing automatically adapts to fit the dimensions of the iframe you place it in, so you have complete flexibility to size it however works best for your page. **Video guide:** [laiout - Shared Links and Website Embeds](https://youtu.be/A-_p3sKrXZE)
Does a Live Listing require any additional permissions or a specific type of shared link? Any Shared Link can be used as a Live Listing without additional setup or permissions. If the link works as a Shared Link, it works as a Live Listing. **Video guide:** [laiout - Shared Links and Website Embeds](https://youtu.be/A-_p3sKrXZE)
If the underlying plan is updated, does the Live Listing reflect the update live? Yes. Any changes you make to the plan in laiout are reflected in the Live Listing automatically, so your webpage always shows the latest version of your floor plan without needing to update it. **Video guide:** [laiout - Shared Links and Website Embeds](https://youtu.be/A-_p3sKrXZE)
Where can I place a Live Listing? Live Listings work across popular website platforms including Webflow, WordPress, custom-built sites, and internal portals. laiout is designed to work anywhere that supports standard HTML iframes. **Video guide:** [laiout - Shared Links and Website Embeds](https://youtu.be/A-_p3sKrXZE)
Can I hide or show specific elements in a Live Listing? Yes. Element visibility, including branding, navigation, and other interface elements, is configured when you create the Shared Link within the export view in laiout. Once set, the Live Listing reflects your preferences automatically. **Video guide:** [laiout - Shared Links and Website Embeds](https://youtu.be/A-_p3sKrXZE)
*** ## Video Guides ### Live Listings - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # PDF Export
How do I generate a PDF? To export a PDF, open an option, click on the Export button on the top bar and select "Export PDF". alternatively you can click on 3 dots on option card and select "export PDF" there. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
Can I add multiple pages to my PDF? Yes, you can add multiple pages to PDF export, showcasing different information, stats and views of your layout. You can also add a cover and end page where you can upload your own images. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
Can I add 3d views in my PDF? Yes, you can add 3d views to your PDF export. To do so, when in PDF export modal click on the 3d button in the upper right corner. It will change your view to 3D, where you can set up the desired frame. You can also add multiple 3D views on one page by hovering onto the 3d button and selecting one of the grid options. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
Can I show multiple elements on one page? You can add multiple elements on one page, selecting from different statistics, views, and floor plan information to display. You can also add multiple 3D views on one page by hovering onto the 3d button and selecting one of the grid options. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
Can I add my own photos to the PDF? You can add your own photos on the Cover Page and End Page. To add them, drag and drop your images or click on the upload window to select files from your device. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
How do I set scale for my PDF export? You can select one of the default scales listed in the dropdown called "Scale" or insert a custom scale in the input field. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
Can I adjust PDF style to match my branding? You can add your logo, change the font and import images onto cover and end page to make the PDF feel more branded. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create a data rich, client ready PDF presentations](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNX9WAbXhng)
Can I include AI Renders in my PDF export? Yes. Within the PDF export view, an "AI" button on each page allows you to add AI Renders, and a pop-up lets you select which renders to include. You have full control over how renders appear and how they are arranged across your PDF pages. For more details on AI Renders, see the [AI Renders page](/visualising-your-space/ai-renders-overview).
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # CSV Data Export
What data is included in the CSV export? The CSV export includes layout statistics such as room counts, area breakdowns by zone type, desk quantities, occupancy figures, cost estimates and carbon data. This allows you to import the data into your own spreadsheets or analysis tools for further comparison, reporting or integration with internal systems. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
How do I export my layout data as CSV? To export your layout data as CSV, go to the Export panel within your floor view and select the CSV option. The file will download to your device containing all the key metrics and room-by-room data for the current layout. You can then open it in Excel, Google Sheets or any other spreadsheet application. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # CAD / DXF Export ## 2D CAD Export
Can I export DXF or DWG files? Yes. When in option view, click the Export button in the top bar. You can export both 2D and 3D CAD files: choose DXF or DWG under "2D" for a flat plan, or select DWG under "3D" if you need a three-dimensional file. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Is my DXF or DWG exported in my preferred units? Yes. CAD files are exported in the preferred units you have set in your company profile, so you do not need to convert them manually. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
What elements are exported to CAD? All elements you see in the 2D view of your layout are exported to CAD. That includes the original building elements, generated zones, partitions, and furniture. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are layers exported to CAD? Yes. Exported CAD drawings are organised into layers. All CAD exports contain layers representing generated rooms and furniture. When exporting from a Serviced floor, the file contains a simplified set of layers representing walls, glazing, pillars, window sills, railings, and annotations for preserved rooms. When exporting from a Pro floor, the file contains the original layers of the drawing that were retained during the cleaning process. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are furniture pieces block references in DXF/DWG export? Yes. Furniture items are represented as block references in the CAD export, so they behave as reusable components in your CAD software rather than being flattened to individual lines. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are my layers from the original CAD file preserved in my export? Yes, when exporting from Pro. The file will preserve your original layers, apart from any that were deleted during the cleaning process. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Can I safely open the DXF/DWG export in my CAD software? Yes. Our exports are safe to open in all major CAD software packages and follow standard DXF and DWG conventions. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
## 3D DWG Export
Can I export my floor plan as a 3D DWG? Yes. 3D DWG export is available as a new option in the existing CAD export flow. When in option view, click the Export button in the top bar and choose DWG under the "3D" section. Your floor plan will be exported as a three-dimensional DWG file ready to open in your CAD or BIM software. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
What software can I open a 3D DWG in? A 3D DWG is a native AutoCAD file, so it opens directly in AutoCAD without conversion. It can also be imported into Revit, SolidWorks, and ArchiCAD, giving you flexibility across the most common CAD and BIM platforms. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Does 3D DWG replace 2D DXF or DWG export? 3D DWG complements the existing 2D DXF and DWG exports rather than replacing them. Both remain available, so you can choose whichever fits your workflow: flat 2D for plan drawings, 3D DWG for spatial coordination and BIM handovers. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
What is included in a 3D DWG export? The 3D DWG export includes the same elements as the 2D CAD export, presented in three dimensions. That means the original building elements, generated zones, partitions, and furniture, all with height and depth so they are ready for use in a 3D coordination environment. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are there any specific settings I need to know about for 3D DWG? The 3D DWG export uses the same preferences and units set in your company profile as your other CAD exports, so no additional configuration is required. The file is ready to open and work with straight away. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Revit Export {% hint style="info" %} Looking for the Revit add-in that generates layouts inside Revit? See [laiout for Revit](/sharing-and-exporting/laiout-for-revit). {% endhint %}
Are exported elements native Revit elements? All elements generated by the algorithm, floor slabs, and pillars are native Revit elements. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Can furniture elements be exported and converted correctly into native Revit families? Are parametric properties preserved? Furniture elements are exported and converted into Revit families. Furniture families provided by the user when uploading will be used for the Revit export and their parametric properties will be preserved. Furniture pieces provided by laiout aren't Revit families originally, hence when they are exported to Revit, they will be Revit families but without parametric properties. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are all exported elements mapped to the correct Revit family categories (e.g., Furniture, Walls, Rooms), avoiding use of Generic Models? Generated elements are mapped to the correct Revit family categories (Walls, Curtain Walls, Doors, Furniture, Structural Columns). In serviced floor plans, original building elements such as core, external wall are represented with generic models in properly assigned categories. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are internal partitions or separations exported into Revit as native wall elements with correct wall types? Yes, internal partitions are exported correctly to Wall and Curtain Wall elements. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are doors or transparent/opening elements embedded in walls recognised and exported as Revit door families? Yes, doors are exported as native Revit elements embedded in Wall elements in generated rooms, and in serviced floors the other doors (such as doors to stairwells, bathrooms) as well. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Can laiout handle multistory buildings, and are staircases, elevators, and slabs modeled as multilevel elements compatible with Revit? Multistory Revit export is not currently available, but it is on the product roadmap. For now, each floor can be exported individually as a Revit file. Contact the laiout team at for updates on this feature. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Does laiout support assignment and export of ceiling heights and false ceilings for accurate Revit planning and ceiling system coordination? No, false ceilings aren't supported in Revit export. Ceiling height (or story height) set in floor settings isn't currently respected in Revit export. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
How are materials and textures managed during Revit export? Can finishes (e.g., tiles, wood, concrete) be assigned in laiout and mapped to Revit materials? No, it is currently impossible to assign materials yourself within laiout. Exported elements will have default materials assigned to them. Furniture provided by laiout doesn't have any materials assigned. Furniture uploaded by the user will preserve the original material. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are floor finish materials or texturing options visible in the 3D model, and can they be exported to Revit or represented in PDF reports? No, it is currently impossible to assign materials yourself within laiout. Exported elements will have default materials assigned to them. Furniture provided by laiout doesn't have any materials assigned. Furniture uploaded by the user will preserve the original material. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are room-bounding elements correctly configured to enable automatic room recognition in Revit? In serviced floors, in most cases it's possible to assign rooms and room-bounding elements are correctly configured. In Pro floors, since the file doesn't include existing building elements, it is largely not possible, unless the file is properly imported into Revit model representing the original structure. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are exported spaces tagged with editable parameters in Revit, such as Name, Number, Area, and Department? No, since spaces aren't exported (yet), they don't have tags either. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Does the Revit export support shared coordinates and project base points, ensuring easy integration into federated models (e.g., in ACC)? No, Revit export currently doesn't support shared coordinates. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Is it possible to retain level structure and associated data when exporting to Revit? Level structure and associated data is not currently supported in Revit export. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Can Revit export use a custom Revit template to embed elements into predefined views, phases, or sheet setups? This isn't currently an option. The exported file uses a default Revit template, which helps ensure most users can open it. This feature could be implemented later if there's a demand. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Are there plans to support IFC export for compatibility with non-Autodesk BIM platforms? IFC export is available in laiout. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Can I export revit file with Pro? Yes, you can export Revit file from a floor uploaded in Pro mode, however it will only represent objects generated within the app (external walls and core won't be parsed into Revit elements) **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
Which Revit versions are supported? Revit exports now produce 2025-compatible files by default, with no action needed on your end. Earlier versions (2022, 2023, and 2024) remain supported. The upgrade to the latest version is transparent, so you continue to export as normal.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # IFC Export
Where can I open my IFC export? You can open IFC files exported from our software in any IFC viewer. You can also import them to other BIM softwares, as Revit or Archicad. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export to IFC & keep working in your tools](https://youtu.be/DMQstRxJRj8)
What elements are exported to IFC? All elements visible in 3D view are exported to IFC. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export to IFC & keep working in your tools](https://youtu.be/DMQstRxJRj8)
Is the export compliant with IFC standards? The IFC export presents all the standards relative to the generated elements. Every piece belongs to categories, and we set default values for Walls, Floor slabs, Doors, etc. These can then be edited in any BIM software,. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export to IFC & keep working in your tools](https://youtu.be/DMQstRxJRj8)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # OBJ Export
Can I export an obj file? Yes, you can export an obj file representing 3d view of your layout. When viewing your layout, click on Export in top bar, hover over 3D and select Export OBJ. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
What is included in the obj export? Everything you see in 3D view is exported to OBJ. It doesn't however export textures and materials. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to export your floorplans into the format you need](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23e9rrxvUCE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # laiout for Revit {% hint style="info" %} Looking to export a finished plan as a Revit file instead? See [Revit Export](/sharing-and-exporting/revit-export). {% endhint %} laiout for Revit is a panel that lives inside Revit on its own laiout ribbon tab. It sends the flat 2D outline of your floor to the laiout web app, where AI generates furniture layouts in seconds, then places a layout you choose back into your Revit model. Your .rvt file never leaves your machine, only the 2D outline is uploaded. ## Getting Started
What is laiout for Revit? A panel that lives inside Revit on its own laiout ribbon tab. It sends the flat 2D outline of your floor to the laiout web app, where AI generates furniture layouts in seconds, then places a layout you choose back into your Revit model. The .rvt file never leaves your machine, only the flat 2D outline is uploaded.
Which Revit versions are supported? Revit 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Where do I download laiout for Revit? Download the installer from [laiout.app/plugin\_download](https://laiout.app/plugin_download). You will need an active laiout account. Once downloaded, follow the install steps below. The plugin works with Revit 2024, 2025, and 2026.
How do I install it? It is a standard Windows installer, so you double-click and follow the prompts. It installs per-user, into your own Windows profile, so no admin rights are needed to install it or to run it. You can normally install it yourself without involving IT.
How do I open the plugin? After installing, open Revit and click the new laiout tab on the ribbon, then the Connect button. This shows or hides the dockable laiout panel, which opens on the right by default.
How do I sign in? With your normal laiout web account, the same email and password you use on the website. There is no separate account or licence key. Enter your email and password in the panel and click Log In.
Do I have to sign in every time? No. Your session is stored encrypted on your machine (Windows DPAPI, per Windows user). The next time you open Revit you are signed in automatically until the session expires. Click Logout at the top-right of the panel to sign out, which clears the stored session.
What are the three steps? Export, generate, import. First, export. Open the floor plan view you want, navigate to the right project in the panel, and click Export. laiout reads the floor and creates it in the web app. Second, generate. In the web app, draw circulation and generate layout options. Mark the ones you like as favourites. The Revit panel notifies you when they are ready. Third, import. Pick a favourite in the panel and click Import Layout. The layout is placed back into your model. The panel is organised as a navigation tree: Organisation, then Project, then Floor, then Layout Options. You drill down to find the floor you are working on, and the Export and Import sections appear as you go.
Do I need a laiout subscription, and is the plugin a paid add-on? You need an active laiout subscription, since all layout generation happens in the web app. The plugin itself is included at no extra charge for laiout subscribers, with no separate fee or add-on cost. You sign in with your normal laiout account.
How does laiout for Revit relate to the existing Revit Export feature? laiout for Revit extends the existing Revit Export in three ways. First, it runs inside Revit rather than from an uploaded file, so you export the live floor straight from the model and your .rvt never leaves the machine. Second, it is two-way: the layout you generate comes back into Revit as real placed elements, whereas the file-based export had no return path. Third, it keeps your model clean and native, preserving your existing shell as real Revit elements and adding only the generated layout on top. See [Revit Export](/sharing-and-exporting/revit-export) for the file-based export path.
Who is laiout for Revit built for? Existing Revit users doing architectural, interior, or workplace space planning: architects, interior designers, and space planners who also use laiout. It is not aimed at MEP or structural engineers, since the plugin reads and creates no MEP, lighting, or structural content.
## Exporting a Floor
Do I need to create the project in laiout first, or does exporting create it? You set up the organisation and project in the laiout web app first. The plugin does not create them. Its navigation tree only lists the organisations and projects you already have, so a brand-new project has to be made on the website before it shows up here. Hit Refresh if you just made it. What exporting creates is a floor inside the project you have navigated to, not the project itself. If a floor with the same name already exists in that project, the export updates that floor in place rather than creating a duplicate. If the name clashes with another existing floor, you are prompted to give the export a different name, or to cancel.
What does the export read from my model? laiout reads the 2D footprint of: walls (walls whose type name contains "glass", "glaze", or "glazing" are treated as glass), curtain walls (decomposed into glass panels, solid/spandrel panels, and mullions), architectural and structural columns, doors, floor slabs, shaft openings (treated as unavailable space, for example lift shafts), stairs, railings (slab-edge railings, while railings hosted on stairs or ramps are skipped), and Rooms and Areas (used as zones, and as a perimeter fallback).
What does the export NOT read? Furniture, FF\&E (furniture, fixtures and equipment), casework, and generic family instances are ignored entirely. The export never looks at them, so you can safely export a model that is already fully furnished: none of that furniture is sent, becomes an obstacle, or affects the result. The export is purely a 2D floor footprint, so ceilings, lighting fixtures, and MEP are also not read. Reflected ceiling plans are not even offered in the view picker, since they mirror the ceiling, not the floor.
How is the building outline determined? By the Perimeter setting in the Export section: Auto (recommended) uses floor slabs first. If there are none, it falls back to placed Areas, then placed Rooms. Floor slabs, Areas, or Rooms forces that one source. If the view cannot provide it, the export is blocked (no silent fallback) and the readiness check tells you what to add. You need at least one of: a floor slab, placed Rooms, or placed Areas. With none of these, there is nothing to define the outline and export is blocked.
Do crop regions or hidden elements matter? Yes. The export respects the selected view's crop region, view filters, and hidden elements. What you see is what gets read. The panel reminds you of this under the view selector.
What are the export settings? Floor Plan View: pick which floor-plan view to export, shown as ViewName (LevelName). The currently active view is pre-selected. Include linked Revit models (default off): also read walls, slabs, and columns from loaded Revit links visible in the view. Turn this on when the building geometry lives in a linked model rather than the current file. Perimeter: the outline source described above. Export as New Floor: tick to create a separate new floor instead of updating the floor you exported before. DWG layers: map CAD underlay layers to obstacle roles.
I'm working from a DWG underlay, not Revit elements. Can laiout use it? Partially, via DWG layers. You tag each CAD layer as Columns, Walls, Glass, or Ignore, and laiout extracts closed shapes on those layers as obstacles. The mapping is saved per project. Note the limits: columns as closed polylines or circles extract reliably; walls and glass are best-effort, and walls drawn as two open parallel lines will NOT extract. Only closed shapes work.
How can I check exactly what the export read? The floor in the web app is the ground truth. It shows the geometry precisely as laiout received it, so open it and compare against your model. The panel's post-export summary lists what was counted, and the plugin keeps a technical log at %APPDATA%\Laiout\plugin.log that records per-export detail. If a result looks wrong, send that log to the laiout team and we can see exactly what was read.
What happens after a successful export? The panel shows a summary (wall, glass, door and column counts, GEA and NIA areas, zone breakdown), your browser opens to the floor's options page in laiout, and the plugin starts watching that floor for layouts.
## Naming Rooms & Areas
How does laiout classify my Rooms and Areas? When you export, laiout classifies each placed Room (and Area) by its name, case-insensitive, matching whole words. The first match wins. Name your spaces using these keywords to have them recognised: | If the name contains | laiout treats it as | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------- | | toilet, wc, restroom, bathroom, washroom, lavatory, men, women | Bathroom | | stair, stairs, staircase, stairwell | Stairwell | | elevator, lift, elev | Elevator shaft | | kitchen, kitchenette, pantry | Kitchen | | balcony, terrace, patio | Balcony | | mechanical, electrical, server, IT room, storage, store, janitor, core, MEP, riser, plenum, closet, utility, boiler, shaft, duct, comms, telecom, sprinkler, AHU, HVAC, equipment, plant, generator, transformer, switch room, MDF, IDF, loading, BOH / back of house, refuse / garbage, and similar service spaces | Core / service room | For Rooms, if the name does not match, laiout also checks the Department, Occupancy, then Comments fields before giving up. For Areas, only the name is checked. A trailing number is ignored, so Stair 01 still reads as a stairwell. A thin sliver space classified as Core / service room (smaller than 5 m2 and narrower than about 0.6 m) is dropped, to avoid tiny auto-generated rooms in column strips becoming zones.
What if a Room's name matches nothing? It becomes a Custom zone. The AI layout step skips Custom zones and will not place furniture there. The space still shows in the web app with its Revit name, and you can reassign it there. If a Room was actually meant to be designed by the AI, mark it as open shell instead. Heads-up: if your unclassified Custom Rooms cover 20% or more of the slab, the plugin warns you before export. You can Continue anyway or Cancel to fix the model.
How do I tell laiout to design a space for me? Mark a Room as open shell to tell laiout to treat it as empty space for the AI to fill, instead of a fixed room. Two ways: Shared parameter (preferred): add a Laiout\_OpenShell parameter to the Rooms category and set it to Yes (or 1, true, yes, or y if it is a text parameter). Comments tag (no parameter needed): put \[LAIOUT:OPEN\_SHELL] anywhere in the Room's Comments field. Either way, that Room's area becomes AI Generated open shell. This applies to Rooms only, since Areas have no open-shell opt-out.
## Generating Layouts & Notifications
Where do I generate layouts? In the laiout web app. Draw circulation, generate options, and mark the ones you like as favourites. Favourites are what the Revit panel imports.
How does the plugin know when a layout is ready? It polls the floor you exported every 20 seconds while you are signed in. The floor it watches is remembered across Revit restarts, so it resumes watching automatically next time you open Revit.
How am I notified? Two surfaces, in amber: an inline banner at the top of the panel, and a floating pop-up at the bottom-right of the screen that auto-dismisses after 8 seconds, shown when the panel is not visible, Revit is minimised, or another app is in focus. The Revit taskbar button also flashes until you focus Revit.
What is the difference between a new and an updated layout? "New layout ready" is a favourite that did not exist when you exported. "Layout updated" is a favourite you had already seen that was changed in the web app, for example renamed or regenerated. Favourites that already existed at export time are adopted silently as a baseline, so you are only notified about genuine changes after that. Clicking View jumps straight to that layout with Import armed. Dismiss mutes that specific state, and a future genuine edit will notify you again.
## Importing & Round-Trip Editing
How do I import? Navigate to the floor's Layout Options, click a layout to select it (or use View from a notification), then click Import Layout. The button is enabled only once both a floor and a layout are selected.
What gets created in my model? The plugin places real Revit elements: Rooms (one per zone) with room tags, partition walls (and glass partitions), doors, floor finish slabs, and furniture as family instances. Furniture families are pulled from a bundled template as needed. If a specific piece cannot be matched, it is skipped and counted in the import summary. The imported elements are ordinary Revit elements, so you can move, rename, schedule, tag, or delete them like anything else.
Will importing recreate or duplicate the walls, columns and doors I already modelled? No, and this is by design. The import only adds what the laiout layout generated: interior partition walls, interior doors, furniture, floor finishes, and Rooms plus tags. It deliberately skips your building shell, so your existing exterior and interior walls, curtain walls, columns and exterior doors are recognised as already present and are not recreated. You never get duplicate walls stacked on top of your originals. Because of this, a layout is meant to be imported back into the model you exported from, where that shell already exists. Your own elements are never modified or deleted. The only things cleared out on a re-import are elements from a previous laiout import (identified by the Laiout.FloorId / Laiout.OptionId stamp). One exception: a floor that was created directly in the web app, never exported from Revit, has no shell in your model, so importing it generates the full shell too (exterior walls, curtain walls and columns included). The plugin warns you and asks you to confirm before doing this.
Does the import create ceilings, lighting or MEP? No. The import builds the floor-level layout only: Rooms, partitions, doors, floor finishes and furniture. It does not create ceilings, light fixtures, or any MEP or services. The floor-to-ceiling height carried in the layout is used only to set how tall the partition walls rise; no ceiling element is placed to cap them, so you are free to model your own ceilings and reflected ceiling plans on top of the imported layout.
Which furniture families does the import use? Can it use the families I uploaded to laiout? Not in this version. The import furnishes the layout from the families bundled with the plugin (laiout\_families), a curated set of generic desks, chairs, tables, sofas and similar office pieces. For each piece in your layout the plugin picks the closest bundled family, first by exact name, then by a looser partial name match. If nothing matches, that piece is skipped, the rest of the layout still imports, and the import summary shows how many pieces could not be matched. Any custom families, furniture or FF\&E products you uploaded to the laiout web app are not pulled into Revit by this version. Mapping your own office-standard or manufacturer families onto imported furniture is planned for version 2. Until then you can swap the placed generics in bulk with Revit's Select All Instances, then change type, since every imported piece is an ordinary family instance.
What happens if I import a different option onto the same floor? It is clean. Before placing the new layout, the plugin deletes everything it previously imported for that floor and then places the new option. No duplicates, no clutter. Importing replaces any laiout layout previously imported on this level, and your own Revit elements are untouched.
How does it know what to delete? Every element the plugin places is stamped with Laiout.FloorId / Laiout.OptionId shared parameters, which you can see in element properties. Only elements carrying that stamp are ever removed. Your own Revit elements are never touched.
Where do imported elements land? On the level captured at export, using the exported coordinate transform. The import keeps a record in the panel's Import History (layout name, time, and element count).
Can I go Revit to laiout to Revit, make changes, and go back? Yes, and you can feed a model that is already fully designed or furnished, since furniture is ignored on export either way. Two things are handled automatically to keep the loop stable. Rooms that laiout itself placed are skipped on re-export (they are tagged as laiout-authored), so a previously imported layout does not get re-read as a wall-to-wall blanket of zones. And re-importing replaces the prior import for that floor. Important caveat: partition walls and doors from an import are NOT skipped on re-export. Only laiout-placed Rooms are auto-skipped. The partition walls and doors that an import created are read back as real walls and doors if you re-export that floor while the layout is still in the model. Tweaking your base building (move a real wall, add or rename a Room) and re-exporting works as expected. But re-exporting a floor that still contains an imported layout means the AI's own partitions come back as fixed walls. Re-export from the base model unless you specifically want those partitions frozen as input.
Will furniture changes I make in Revit go back to laiout? No. Furniture is one-way, laiout to Revit only. The export never reads furniture of any kind, yours or laiout's, so rearranging furniture in Revit will not appear in the web app. If you want different furniture, change the layout in laiout and re-import.
## Privacy, Security & IT
Does my Revit model leave my computer? No. Your .rvt file never leaves the machine. Only a small 2D outline of the floor (geometry as JSON/SVG) is uploaded. The plugin does not store your password, only an encrypted session token, on your machine.
What does IT need to allow? Outbound HTTPS from the workstation to the laiout web app (laiout.app), the laiout processing service, and Amazon S3 for file transfer. No server, VPN, or on-prem component is required, since it talks to the same service the website does. Ask the laiout team for the exact domain list for your account.
Where does the plugin store things locally? Encrypted session at %APPDATA%\Laiout\credentials.dat. Settings (perimeter source, linked-models toggle, DWG mappings) at %APPDATA%\Laiout\settings.json. Technical log at %APPDATA%\Laiout\plugin.log.
## Troubleshooting
What are the most common mistakes to avoid? DWG walls drawn as two thin parallel lines. Only closed shapes on mapped DWG layers extract, so two open lines will not be picked up. Model real Revit walls, or draw DWG walls as closed polylines. Columns as closed polylines or circles extract reliably. Nothing defines the outline. No floor slab and no Rooms and no Areas means export is blocked. Add a floor slab, or place Rooms or Areas. Geometry is in a linked Revit model, but "Include linked Revit models" is off, so the host looks empty. Tick the checkbox in the Export section. Unclassified Custom Rooms over a big area. Rooms whose names do not match a known type are skipped by the AI. Rename them to a recognised keyword or mark them open shell. The plugin warns when these cover 20% or more of the floor. Re-exporting on top of an imported layout. The AI's partition walls and doors get read back as real walls. Re-export from the base model. Expecting furniture edits to sync back to the web app. They will not, since furniture is Revit-only output. Forcing a Perimeter source that is not in the view, for example "Areas" with no Areas placed. Set Perimeter back to Auto, or model the missing source. No walls modelled. You will get a warning that the layout will not respect partitions. A curtain-wall-only facade still counts as having walls.
The Export button is blocked or a readiness dialog appeared. Read the checklist, which names exactly what is missing (perimeter source, walls, and so on). Fix those items and export again. A blocked export cannot proceed until the outline source exists. Warnings let you Continue anyway or Cancel.
The result doesn't match what I expected. Open the floor in the web app and compare it with your model, since it shows the geometry exactly as laiout read it. The panel's export summary lists the counts and areas. If something is clearly missing or wrong, send the technical log (%APPDATA%\Laiout\plugin.log) to the laiout team, as it records what was read on each export.
I'm not getting notified about new layouts. Make sure you are signed in (polling stops when signed out) and that you marked the layout as a favourite in the web app. Polling runs every 20 seconds on the floor you exported.
No layouts show for a floor. You will see "No saved layouts for this floor. Generate layouts in the web app first." Mark favourites in the web app, then refresh.
Imported geometry landed in the wrong place. This usually means you imported into a different document than you exported from, so the cached coordinate transform did not match and was reconstructed from the project base point. Re-export once from the correct document and re-import.
Imported layout is on the wrong level in a multi-storey model. The import matches the export's level by name, then by elevation (about 6 inch tolerance), then falls back to the nearest level to 0. Confirm your level names match between export and import.
Export and Import are unavailable and a family-document banner shows. The plugin works in project documents only. Open a project (.rvt), since export and import are disabled while a family (.rfa) document is active.
"Plugin update required." Export is disabled until you install the latest version. Click Update now to open the download page for the current installer.
## Limitations & Roadmap
What are the known limitations today? Furniture is one-way (laiout to Revit) and is not read on export. Imported furniture uses the bundled laiout\_families set, so your own custom families and the FF\&E products you uploaded to the web app are not mapped into Revit yet (planned for version 2), and unmatched pieces are skipped and reported. There are no ceilings, lighting or MEP, since the plugin works at the floor-plan level only, on both export and import. DWG walls are best-effort and need closed shapes. Curtain walls in linked models come through simplified. Multi-storey level matching on import relies on consistent level names.
What's coming next (version 2)? Map your own families onto imported furniture: match each laiout piece type to a Revit family and type from your office library once, and from then on every import uses your furniture instead of the bundled generics. Pull through the FF\&E products you added in the web app, so the matching manufacturer family lands in Revit rather than a generic stand-in. Layout statistics written into Revit: usable area, workstation count, area per person, occupancy and, where available, cost and carbon stamped onto the imported Rooms as schedulable shared parameters. Automatic furniture and FF\&E schedule: a ready-made Revit schedule of every placed piece, populated from the mapped families. Richer "updated layout" notifications, adding a thumbnail and a deep-link that jumps to the exact option with Import already armed.
What's being explored after version 2? Ceilings and reflected ceiling plans, generating a ceiling per zone at the floor-to-ceiling height already carried in the layout, and creating the RCP view. Lighting layouts, placing luminaires on a grid or from a laiout-generated lighting plan inside each zone. Whole-building batch export, queueing every floor-plan view in a model and exporting them in a single pass. Selective or partial import, bringing in only the zones, only the partitions, or only the furniture. Non-destructive re-import, previewing exactly what will be added, removed or changed before re-importing, and optionally keeping local tweaks. Live two-way sync, so edits made in the web app flow into Revit automatically without a manual re-import.
How do I get the firewall domains, an installer, or a team walkthrough? You can download the installer yourself at [laiout.app/plugin\_download](https://laiout.app/plugin_download). For the exact firewall domain list for your account, or a walkthrough for your team, contact the laiout team and we will get you set up.
*** ## Video Guides ### Revit Plugin Overview - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Download & Install - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Import Existing Floor Plans - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Export and Import Between Floors - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Working with Linked Revit Models - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # Supported Countries & Standards
Which countries and regulations does laiout currently support? laiout currently includes fire safety regulations for the UK, UAE, China, Germany, USA and Singapore. The platform also supports workplace clearance standards that can be configured to match local requirements in other jurisdictions. The regulations library is expanding regularly as we add new markets. If your portfolio includes countries not yet listed, contact the laiout team to discuss your requirements. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
Are new country regulations added regularly? Yes. The laiout team continuously expands regulation coverage based on customer demand and market expansion. New regulations are added through platform updates without requiring any action from you. If you operate in a market that is not yet supported, contact the team at to request it. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
Can I request support for a regulation not currently covered? Yes. Contact the laiout team at with details of the regulation and country. The team evaluates requests based on customer demand and can often add new standards within a product release cycle. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Country-Specific Regulations
Can I check my layout's compliance with local rules? laiout cannot guarantee full compliance in every country, but the platform allows you to set parameters to meet local regulations such as clearance constraints, corridor widths, and fire exit distances. More countries are on the roadmap. Contact the team at to check specifics for your region. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
Do you follow German regulations? Yes. laiout supports German regulations including walking clearance, window clearance, and fire exit distance mapping. The fire compliance feature measures distances to fire exits to help you verify your layout meets local requirements.
Do you take into account the location of fire exits in your design? Yes. If fire exits are marked in the floor, they will be taken into account. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
Are distances/clearance enough for my layout to be compliant? It's possible to change the clearances to match the local regulations. You can access them via the Advanced Preferences. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
Is my corridor compliant? The default value of the corridor width is 1.5m/60in. This is considered the standard width for 2 wheelchairs to pass next to each other. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set and adjust your corridor preferences](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYl7VpOujY)
How do I check if there's enough area per person? It is possible to check from the Zones Statistics in the Statistics Panel. To ensure correct density, set area per person in preferences. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Fire Safety & Exit Distances
Can I measure the distance from emergency exits? Yes. It is possible to measure automatically the distance from emergency exits via the Regulations feature. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
Does my layout adhere to fire safety regulations? It is possible to measure automatically the distance from emergency exits via the Regulations Checker and check against the local regulations. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
How to check fire safety regulations compliance? It is possible to measure automatically the distance from emergency exits via the Regulations Checker. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
What countries' regulations can I check? At the moment we have fire regulations for UK, UAE, China, Germany, USA and Singapore. However you can edit the distance values to check the compliance with other regulations. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to set location based fire compliance clearances](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9qusNDPEEE)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Collaboration & Team Access
Can multiple team members work on the same project? Yes. All Members and Admins in your organisation have access to all projects by default. Team members can open the same project, view saved favourites, and generate their own layout options. For more targeted access, you can invite someone as a Project Member, which limits their access to specific projects only. This makes it easy for real estate teams, workplace strategists, and facilities managers to collaborate without stepping on each other's work. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
How do I control who sees what in my organisation? laiout offers three user roles: Admin, Member and Project Member. Admins have full access to all projects, company settings and user management. Members can access all projects but cannot change company-level settings. Project Members can only see the specific projects they have been invited to. This tiered structure lets you give your core team broad access while restricting sensitive projects to authorised personnel only. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
Can teams in different offices or countries access the same projects? Yes. laiout is a cloud-based platform accessible from any modern web browser. Team members in London, New York, Singapore or anywhere else can log into the same organisation account, access the same projects, and view each other's saved favourites and shared links. There is no geographic restriction on access. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
How do I share layouts with external stakeholders who do not have accounts? Use the Shared Links feature to create view-only links that open in any browser without requiring a laiout account. You can also export branded PDFs for offline sharing. For website integration, use Live Listings to display interactive layouts on your own site. These options cover the full range of external sharing needs, from one-off client presentations to persistent marketing assets. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # User Roles & Permissions
What kind of user roles are there? There are 3 kinds of roles - Admin, Member, and Project Member. Admin can edit company's profile and other company-level settings, such as company table or furniture presets. Admins can also add and manage other users of the organisation. Members can use all available laiout functionalities among all projects in the organisation, but cannot edit company-level settings or add new members. Project Members are Members who have access only to selected projects and/or functionalities of laiout. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
What floor-level settings can team Members edit? Team Members (the standard role below Admin and Owner) can now edit floor-level settings directly. This includes floor dimensions, units, preferences, and other layout-specific configurations that previously required Admin approval. Admin-only controls still include billing, team management, organisation-wide settings, and high-level account configuration.
How can I change someone's role? Admins can change roles in Users tab by clicking on the role and editing it. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
Can I edit who has access to which project? All Members and Admins of your organisation have access to all projects. Project Members have access limited to selected projects and functionalities. To add a project member, click on a "Invite to Project" button in the upper right corner. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
How can I restrict someone's access? Admins can change roles in Users tab by clicking on the role and editing it. There someone's role can be changed to Member to prevent the user from editing company-level settings, or to Project Member to restrict the access to selected Projects and functionalities. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
How can I add a new user? Admins can add users in Users tab. Additionally, they can invite Project Members in Projects page by clicking on a Invite to Project button in the upper right corner. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
Can I add someone to one project? To add someone to one Project, add them as a Project Member either in Users tab, or by clicking on a "Invite to Projects" button in the upper right corner on Projects page. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
Who can change users roles? Admins can change roles in Users tab by clicking on the role and editing it. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to add users and manage permissions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vx75zP3Ewk)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Client Management
How do I add a client? In Clients tab you can add and edit client profiles that later you can assign to projects. You can add their name, country and logo. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
Where can I add or edit clients? You can edit clients in Clients tab, available after clicking on your Initial in the upper left corner. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
How do I add a client to a project? Click on the 3 dots on the right of the Project row to assign a client to the selected project. You can also assign a client to the project while creating it. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
How do I assign a client to a project? Click on the 3 dots on the right of the Project row to assign a client to the selected project. You can also assign a client to the project while creating it. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
Can I list projects by client? Yes, you can sort Projects by assigned clients. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
How do I edit client accounts? You can edit clients in Clients tab, available after clicking on your Initial. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
Can I edit client's name or details? In Clients tab you can add and edit client profiles that later you can assign to projects. You can add their name, country and logo. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
Can I assign multiple clients to a project? No, you can assign only one Client to a project. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
Can I unassign a client? You can unassign a client by clicking on the currently assigned client's name in the client selection bar. The current assignment will be removed this way. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to assign projects to clients and manage client base](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__qmBh1AwkQ)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Client Branding Client Colour Profiles let you define brand colours for each of your clients and apply them automatically across layouts, the editor view, and all exported deliverables. This ensures full brand consistency from the design view through to client-facing materials.
What is a Client Colour Profile? A Client Colour Profile is a set of brand colours linked to a specific client. The profile defines colours used across the layout output, including zone-specific accents, ensuring that everything produced for that client carries consistent visual branding.
How do I create a Client Colour Profile? Client Colour Profiles are created within Client Management, on each client's profile page. From there, define the brand colours and any zone-specific accents you want associated with that client.
How do I apply a Client Colour Profile to a project? When viewing any project or floor plan, you can select the relevant client colour profile from the laiout toolbar. The chosen profile is then applied to the project view, exports, and shared links automatically.
Where does a Client Colour Profile appear? Once selected, the profile applies across all views, including the editor and every type of export. This ensures full brand consistency from how you design the space in laiout through to every deliverable that reaches your client.
Can I edit or delete a Client Colour Profile? Yes. Profiles can be edited or deleted at any time from the same Client Management section where they were originally created.
Are Client Colour Profiles shared across my team? Yes. Profiles are saved at the organisation level and shared across the entire team, so everyone working on a client's projects uses the same brand colours.
# Company Profile & Details
How do I change company details? To change company details, open the side bar by clicking on your initials in the top-left corner and select the Profile tab. There you can add and edit company details such as logo, name, address, company registration number and preferred units. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to manage company settings and profile information](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWj9tvaVCQo)
Who can change company profile details? Only Admins can change company profile details. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to manage company settings and profile information](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWj9tvaVCQo)
What's the difference between Preferred Units and Preferred Furniture Units? Preferred Units represent the building units. These could be using the Imperial or Metric system. The Furniture Units instead are the units used for the furniture. In some countries the areas are measured in Feet, while the furniture in Meters. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to manage company settings and profile information](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWj9tvaVCQo)
How can I add company logo? To add a company logo, open Profile tab. There on the top of the page you can upload your logo from your computer (PNG format is preferred). **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to manage company settings and profile information](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWj9tvaVCQo)
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Presets & Company Table
What can I edit in Presets? In Presets you can edit initial preferences input for various floor sizes in Company Table, workstation sizes in Furniture, alternative names and definitions of zones in Zone Variants, and company-level clearance settings in Clearance.
Why there are some values already filled for meeting rooms or breakout? We aim to help all users to expedite their workflow. Based on the size of the floor plate preferences are prefilled with a request defined in the Company Table.
What is a Company Table? Company Table is a company-level setting, where you can define initial, default requests that will be prefilled for all uploaded floor plans. Columns represent different floor size ranges. Rows represent zone variants, such as Meeting Rooms and Breakout areas in various sizes. Numbers in the table represent how many rooms of the specific type and size will be requested in preferences for a floor plan in the corresponding floor size range.
How to add a new column to the company table? To add a new column/size range to Company Table, click on the + button in the upper right corner of the table.
Can I have multiple company tables saved? No, currently it is possible to have only one Company Table.
Can I add more rows to company table? No, currently it is not possible to add more rows to the Company Table.
Can I edit zone names in Company table? No, but you can edit them in Zone Variants tab.
How to edit company table? Input the desired numbers of rooms in different columns and rows of the table.
What are zone variants? Zone Variants is a tab under Presets, where you can adjust the names of zone variants (S, M, L etc.)
Can I change what S/M/L means? No, you cannot change the predefined pax ranges linked to zone variants, but you can change the names that represent those ranges.
Can I change default zone types and sizes? No, you cannot change the predefined pax ranges linked to zone variants, but you can change the names that represent those ranges.
# Zones & Colours Zones & Colours is where you define and style zone kinds for your organisation, including zone names, colours, icons, and custom zones. Zone Variants is a separate tab under Presets, covering the size definitions for each zone kind. The two are documented together here, but they are accessed from different places in the app. ## Zone naming, colours, and icons
Can I change zone names? Yes. Change zone names in the Zones & Colours tab, available after clicking the Initial button on the left side bar. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to modify zone names & colours](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxyAzmKFAtc)
Can I change the colours of the zones displayed in my layout? Yes. Change zone colours in the Zones & Colours tab, available after clicking the Initial button on the left side bar. You can input the HEX code or pick a colour from the colour wheel. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to modify zone names & colours](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxyAzmKFAtc)
Can I have multiple colour presets? Multiple saved colour presets are not currently supported. Your current zone colours apply across your projects. Support for multiple saved presets is a capability we may look at in future. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to modify zone names & colours](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxyAzmKFAtc)
How do I change zone icons? Change zone icons in the Zones & Colours tab, available after clicking the Initial button on the left side bar. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to modify zone names & colours](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxyAzmKFAtc)
Why do the zone icons look different? Most zone icons have been refreshed for visual consistency across the platform. This includes a distinct new colour for the Pod Area zone type, helping you distinguish it from other room types at a glance. The updated icons appear automatically across the interface, so no action is required.
Can I add my own icons? Custom or user-uploaded icons are not supported. Zone icons are drawn from laiout's built-in icon set, which has been designed for visual consistency across the platform. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to modify zone names & colours](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxyAzmKFAtc)
Can I add more zone kinds to my organisation? Yes. Add more zone kinds under the Custom category in the Zones & Colours tab, available after clicking the Initial button on the left side bar. See [Zone Editing Overview](/editing-your-layout/zone-editing-overview) for the full custom zone kinds workflow, including how to request them in your preferences before generation. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to modify zone names & colours](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxyAzmKFAtc)
## Zone Variants
What are Zone Variants? Zone Variants let you define what zone size variants mean for your organisation. A zone kind is the type of space (for example, Focus Zone, Coffee Area, or Open Workspace), and a zone variant is a predefined size variant of that kind (XS, S, M, L, XL, or Custom). Zone Variants let you configure the number of people, area per person, and total area for each of those variants, so they reflect how your team actually plans spaces.
Where do I access Zone Variants? Open the side panel by clicking the Initial button, then go to Presets and select Zone Variants. From there you can view and edit the presets for every zone variant across your organisation.
What can I customise for each zone variant? For each variant of each zone kind, you can set the number of people (as a range or a single value), a default pax value, the area per person (as a range or a single value), a default area per person, and the total area. This gives you full control over what each size means when planning spaces.
Are Zone Variants applied globally or per project? Zone Variants are applied globally across your organisation once you save them. This ensures that every user on your team plans from the same size definitions.
Do changes to Zone Variants affect my existing floor plans? New Zone Variant Preset values are not applied automatically to floor plans that already exist. When new presets are saved, existing floor plans display a Profile Updates Available notification, letting you choose to sync the new values on a per-floor basis or reject them to keep the current settings on that plan.
How do Zone Variants affect layout generation? When you request zones in your preferences, laiout uses the number of people and area definitions from your Zone Variants to generate layouts that match your organisation's planning standards. This makes generation more consistent with how you plan spaces in practice.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Materials, Costs & CO2
What are the costs based on? All costs are based on values input in the Materials & Costs tab. The default costs of Walls and Floors are a market estimation. Costs of furniture items integrated by laiout are EMEA prices from furniture providers and estimations for miscellaneous items. The CO2 values are provided by 2050 Materials, a company expert in CO2 calculation. Custom costs and user-uploaded furniture items are based on the values you give when adding an item or cost. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
How are furniture costs calculated? Furniture costs are calculated by multiplying the cost of an item defined in the Materials & Costs tab by the number of its instances in the floor plan. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
How are wall costs calculated? Wall costs are calculated by multiplying the total length of new or generated glass and solid wall segments by the cost value per running metre. Values are taken from the Materials & Costs tab. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
How are CO2 costs calculated? CO2 costs are calculated as follows: for furniture, by multiplying the CO2 value of an item by the number of its instances in the floor plan. For walls, by multiplying the total length of new or generated glass and wall segments by the CO2 value per running metre. For floors and custom items, by multiplying the CO2 value by the NIA value. Values are taken from the Materials & Costs tab. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
How do you calculate the costs? The costs are calculated taking into account all the furniture elements and partitions placed in the floor plan. These values can be edited in the Materials & Costs settings. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
How do you calculate the CO2? The CO2 is calculated by taking into account the CO2 value of each single item in the floor plan. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
What kind of costs can I add? In the Materials & Costs tab you can add a custom cost by clicking on the "Add" button, defining its name, cost per sqm/sqft, and optionally its CO2 cost. Custom costs are only calculated based on the floor's NIA value. You can also adjust the costs and CO2 costs of Partition Walls (solid and glazed) and all Furniture pieces available in the Furniture Library. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Can I add custom costs? Yes. In the Materials & Costs tab you can add a custom cost by clicking on the "Add" button, defining its name, cost per sqm/sqft, and optionally its CO2 cost. Custom costs are only calculated based on the floor's NIA value. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Can I edit a custom material after creating it? Yes. In the Materials & Costs tab, select an existing custom material to update its name, cost per sqm/sqft, or CO2 value. Your changes apply wherever that material is used, so every layout drawing on it reflects the update automatically.
What are Cost Profiles? Cost Profiles let you set up different tiers of costs and CO2 values for use across your organisation. Rather than being limited to a single set of cost assumptions, you can create profiles that reflect different clients, project types, regions, or refurbishment quality tiers (for example, low, medium, and high) and switch between them at any point. **Video guide:** [laiout - Cost Profiles](https://youtu.be/ukHgeaEhDeQ)
Where do I create and edit Cost Profiles? Cost Profiles are managed on your company profile under the Materials and Costs tab. At the top of the tab there is an arrow that lets you add as many profiles as you need. Each profile is edited within the same view. **Video guide:** [laiout - Cost Profiles](https://youtu.be/ukHgeaEhDeQ)
What can I include in a Cost Profile? Each Cost Profile can include costs and CO2 values, any custom cost elements you want to add, and updated furniture cost and CO2 values. This means an entire pricing and sustainability framework can be captured under a single profile. **Video guide:** [laiout - Cost Profiles](https://youtu.be/ukHgeaEhDeQ)
How do I switch between Cost Profiles? Once a layout has been generated, the Statistics panel lets you switch between the different Cost Profiles set up for your organisation. This means you can compare how the same layout performs under different pricing or sustainability tiers without leaving the Statistics view. **Video guide:** [laiout - Cost Profiles](https://youtu.be/ukHgeaEhDeQ)
Are Cost Profiles saved per project or across my organisation? Cost Profiles are saved per organisation. Once a profile has been created, it is available across all projects in your account. **Video guide:** [laiout - Cost Profiles](https://youtu.be/ukHgeaEhDeQ)
Can Cost Profiles be shared across my team? Yes. Every user in your organisation has access to all Cost Profiles created within it, so your team works from a shared set of pricing and sustainability assumptions. **Video guide:** [laiout - Cost Profiles](https://youtu.be/ukHgeaEhDeQ)
Do Cost Profiles replace the existing cost tier system? Cost Profiles work alongside the existing cost tier system rather than replacing it. Both remain available at any time, so you can choose whichever approach suits your project and switch between them freely. **Video guide:** [laiout - Cost Profiles](https://youtu.be/ukHgeaEhDeQ)
Can I edit costs in statistics? Yes, by switching Cost Profiles. Once a layout has been generated, the Statistics panel lets you switch between the different Cost Profiles set up for your organisation, so you can compare how the layout costs change under different profiles without leaving the Statistics view. Individual line-item costs are still edited in the Materials & Costs tab. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Where did you get the pricing for the furniture catalogue? The furniture prices reflect the EMEA prices of the furniture companies that provided the different pieces. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
Where do the CO2 values come from? The CO2 values are provided by 2050 Materials, a company expert in CO2 calculation. laiout works with 2050 Materials as a data partner to keep the CO2 database up to date and accurate. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to compare floorplan options using live metrics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KDG9AGlA7w)
*** ## Video Guides ### Cost Profiles - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} ### Costs and Metrics - Demo Video {% embed url="" %} # FAQ
Is laiout free to use? laiout offers tiered subscription plans based on your needs. For current pricing and plan details, please visit laiout.co or contact the sales team at to discuss which option suits your organisation.
What browsers does laiout support? laiout is a browser-based platform and works on all modern web browsers. Chrome is recommended for the best experience. No software installation is required.
Is my data secure on laiout? laiout takes data security seriously. The platform uses encrypted connections (HTTPS/TLS) and your floor plan data is stored securely. Access is controlled through user roles and permissions at the organisation level, and shared links can have expiry dates. For detailed security information, please contact the laiout team.
Can I use laiout on mobile or tablet? laiout is designed for desktop and laptop use, where the full design interface works best. While the shared link viewer is accessible on tablets and mobile devices for reviewing layouts, the full design and editing experience is optimised for larger screens. You can even access laiout on a phone.
How do I contact support? You can reach the laiout support team through the laiout app. For sales enquiries, contact . You can also access help resources through the laiout lessons video series on YouTube, which covers all core features step by step.
Can I trial laiout before purchasing? Contact the laiout sales team at to discuss trial options and see the platform in action with a personalised demo using your own floor plans.
How often is the platform updated? laiout releases product updates and new features on a regular basis. Recent additions include AI Renders, laiout Flow and Final Design. Updates are applied automatically with no action required from you.
Is laiout available in languages other than English? The laiout interface is currently available in English. For information on additional language support, contact the team at .
What level of support is included with my subscription? All laiout subscriptions include access to the support team via email at . Onboarding, training and ongoing account management are provided based on your plan. Contact for details on your specific support entitlements.
Can I use laiout for space types beyond offices? laiout is currently optimised for commercial office space planning, including traditional offices, coworking spaces, and flexible workspace configurations. The platform handles a wide range of room types within this scope, including meeting rooms, breakout areas, private offices, collaboration zones and reception areas. For questions about other use cases, contact .
What countries or regions does laiout operate in? laiout operates globally, with customers across 36+ countries spanning Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. The platform is accessible from anywhere via web browser. Fire safety regulations are currently supported for the UK, UAE, China, Germany, USA and Singapore, with more being added regularly.
How accurate are the generated layouts? laiout generates regulation-aware layouts that account for corridor widths, clearances, fire exit distances and density standards. These are based on parameters you set to match your local regulations, and coverage varies by country rather than being guaranteed everywhere. The output is a credible, professional-grade first draft suitable for early-stage feasibility, leasing discussions and stakeholder presentations. For detailed design development, layouts can be exported to CAD or Revit for refinement by a designer or architect.
Does laiout have an API or integrations? For information on API access, integrations and technical partnerships, contact the laiout team at .
# Security & Data Handling
Where is my data stored? laiout uses secure cloud infrastructure hosted on AWS Europe (eu-west-1). Data is stored in encrypted environments within this region. For specific details on data residency requirements, contact the laiout team at .
Is my data encrypted? Yes. All data transmitted between your browser and the laiout platform is encrypted using HTTPS/TLS. Data at rest is stored in secure, encrypted environments with access restricted to authorised systems only.
Who can access my floor plans and projects? Only users within your organisation who have been granted the appropriate role (Admin, Member or Project Member) can access your projects. Shared links give view-only access to external parties, and you can restrict those links with email whitelists and expiry dates. The laiout team does not access your projects unless you request support and grant permission.
What happens to my data if I cancel my subscription? Contact the laiout team at for details on data retention and deletion policies following account cancellation. The team can walk you through the process and timelines.
Can I request deletion of my data? Yes, you can request deletion of your data. Contact the laiout team at to make a request, and the team will confirm the scope and timeline for removing your data from the platform.
Does laiout hold any security certifications? laiout holds ISO 27001:2022 certification. SOC 2 certification is currently pending. For the latest information on security certifications and compliance standards, contact the laiout team at .
# Troubleshooting
My floor plan will not upload. What should I check? First, confirm the file format is supported: DXF, DWG or PDF for Lite mode, and DXF or DWG for Pro mode. Check that the file is not corrupted by opening it in another application. For DXF/DWG files, ensure the drawing is not excessively large or complex (very large files may take longer to process). For PDFs, confirm the floor plan is drawn to scale with a clear dimension reference. If the issue persists, contact with the file attached and a description of the error.
In laiout Pro, I clicked Mark as Complete but received an error message. What should I do? The error message indicates what is missing before you can complete the floor plan setup. The most common requirements are: adding a region where laiout will generate layout options, marking the external space outside the floor plan boundary, and drawing at least one corridor. Review the error message, address the missing element, and try marking as complete again.
The generated layout does not match my preferences. What can I do? Check that your preferences are correctly set in the Preferences panel before generating. Make sure you have clicked Apply after making changes. If the layout still does not match, try adjusting your corridor position, as this has a significant impact on how the algorithm distributes space. You can also try Enhanced Precision mode in Advanced Preferences, which gives the algorithm more processing time to fulfil complex requirements. If specific room types are missing, check whether your floor area is large enough to accommodate all requested spaces.
I cannot find my saved favourite. Where is it? Favourites are saved per floor. Navigate to the floor where you saved the favourite and click on the 3 dots on top of the floorplan card and select the star icon where you will find the saved floorplans for that floor.
The 3D view is not loading properly. How do I fix this? Ensure you are using a supported, up-to-date browser (Chrome is recommended). 3D rendering requires WebGL support, which is enabled by default in modern browsers. Check that your internet connection is stable and that you are not connected through a VPN that may limit bandwidth. Try clearing your browser cache, disabling browser extensions that might interfere with graphics rendering, or switching to a different browser. To verify WebGL support, you can visit a WebGL test website. If the issue persists, contact the laiout support team for assistance.
My exported file looks different from what I see in laiout. Why? Some visual differences are expected between the in-app view and exports. CAD/DXF exports contain all spatial data and layers but may not carry the same colour rendering as the app. Revit exports map elements to Revit families, which may display differently depending on your template settings. PDF exports should closely match what you see on screen. If you notice significant discrepancies, ensure your preferences are set correctly before exporting and contact the laiout support team if issues persist.
The platform is running slowly. What should I try? Platform performance depends on your internet connection, browser, the complexity of the floor plan, and the size of any custom furniture models you have uploaded. Try closing other browser tabs, clearing your cache, or switching to Chrome if you are using a different browser. Very large or complex floor plans (particularly those with many layers in DXF/DWG format) may take longer to process. If you are connected through a VPN, try disconnecting to improve connection speed. If performance issues persist, contact the laiout support team.
# Glossary
What does GEA mean? GEA stands for Gross External Area. It is the total floor area measured to the external face of the perimeter walls. GEA includes all enclosed spaces within a building, including common areas, service areas, lift lobbies and stairwells. It is the largest area measurement and is commonly used for construction cost estimates and building valuations.
What does NIA mean? NIA stands for Net Internal Area. It is the usable floor area measured to the internal face of the perimeter walls, excluding common areas, structural columns, lift lobbies, stairwells and service risers. NIA is the area typically used for lease negotiations, space planning and occupancy calculations. In laiout, the efficiency percentage shows NIA as a proportion of GEA.
What is a test-fit? A test-fit is a preliminary floor plan layout that shows how a specific occupier's requirements (desk count, meeting rooms, breakout areas, etc.) would fit into a given floor plate. Traditionally, test-fits are produced by architects and take one to three weeks per iteration. laiout automates this process, generating multiple test-fit options in seconds.
What is a space programme? A space programme (also called a brief or requirements list) is the document that specifies what an occupier needs in their workspace: the number of desks, types and quantities of meeting rooms, breakout areas, private offices, and any other space requirements. In laiout, you enter your space programme through the Preferences panel.
What is a tenancy split? A tenancy split (or multi-tenancy configuration) divides a single floor plate into separate tenancy areas, each with its own entrance, corridor and layout. This is common in buildings where a landlord leases different portions of a floor to different tenants. In laiout, the Multi-Tenancy feature lets you draw tenancy boundaries and generate independent layouts for each area. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to edit and manage multi tenancy areas and floors](https://youtu.be/MPWJOF7qDwg)
What does density mean in space planning? Density refers to the amount of floor area allocated per person, typically expressed in square metres per person (sqm/pax) or square feet per person (sqft/pax). Lower numbers mean more people per unit of space (higher density), while higher numbers provide more space per person (lower density). Common office densities range from 6 to 14 sqm per person depending on the workplace strategy. In laiout, you set your target density in the Preferences panel.
What is a shared link? A shared link is a URL generated from a saved favourite in laiout that allows anyone with the link to view the floor plan layout, 3D model and statistics in their web browser without needing a laiout account. Shared links can be restricted by email whitelist, given expiry dates, and added to websites as Live Listings. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - How to create and share live links to your stakeholders](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nLPJdFBqEC0)
What is an overlay? An overlay is a reference drawing (PDF, JPG or PNG) that you upload on top of your floor plan in laiout. It allows you to compare your generated layout against an existing design, engineering drawing, ceiling plan or any other reference. You can adjust the overlay's transparency to see both layers simultaneously.
*** ## Video Guides {% embed url="" %} # Learning Resources
Where can I find video tutorials? laiout maintains a library of short video tutorials on YouTube called "laiout lessons." These cover everything from uploading your first floor plan to advanced features like multi-tenancy and custom furniture. You can find the playlist at youtube.com/@laiout. Each video is two to five minutes long and focuses on a single feature or workflow. **Video guide:** [laiout lessons - Quick Tips](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLbfTi0d-lsahnbXnOQx5Suu5na4DOjPx)
Does laiout offer onboarding or training for new customers? Yes. When you start with laiout, the team provides onboarding sessions tailored to your role and use case. These sessions walk you through the platform, help you upload your first floor plans, and ensure your team is confident using the tool independently. Contact your account manager or to arrange training.
Is there a community or forum for laiout users? For community engagement and industry discussion, follow laiout on LinkedIn where the team regularly shares product updates, customer stories and industry insights. For direct support, contact .
How do I stay updated on new features and product releases? New features are announced through the laiout newsletter and LinkedIn page. Recent releases include AI Renders, laiout Flow and Final Design. For feature requests, contact the team at .
# Overview The latest features and improvements shipped to the laiout platform, organised by month. Each monthly release note covers two categories: * **New features**: Significant new capabilities added to the platform. * **Improvements**: Enhancements to existing features. Click into any month below to see the details. The newest releases are at the top. ## Recent releases * [July 2026](/whats-new/july-2026) * [June 2026](/whats-new/june-2026) * [May 2026](/whats-new/may-2026) * [April 2026](/whats-new/april-2026) # July 2026 A summary of everything new in laiout this month. AI Renders generated straight from your 2D floor plan, and more control over the custom materials in your cost tiers. ## New features {% hint style="success" %} **AI Renders from 2D - Render straight from your 2D plan** Generate AI Renders directly from your 2D floor plan, without switching into the 3D view first. Add a camera, preview the scene it will capture, and render from there. [See Generating AI Renders](/visualising-your-space/generating-ai-renders) {% endhint %} ## Improvements {% hint style="info" %} **Edit Custom Materials - Update your materials anytime** Edit a custom material after you have created it. Update its name, cost, or CO2 value at any point, and every layout using that material reflects the change. [See Materials, Costs & CO2](/organisation-settings/materials-costs-co2) {% endhint %} *** *AI Renders is an optional add-on to your laiout subscription.* # June 2026 A summary of everything new in laiout this month. Corridors that adapt with your design, a new Revit plugin, brief autofill, expanded zone options, custom cost profiles, and more control over your AI Renders. ## New features {% hint style="success" %} **Editable Corridors - Move corridors and the layout adapts** Move corridors at any point in your design and the layout regenerates around them automatically. No more starting again to change circulation. [See Drawing & Editing Corridors](/designing-your-space/drawing-editing-corridors) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **laiout for Revit - Generate layouts inside Revit** A new Revit plugin that brings laiout inside your Revit workflow. Export a floor with one click, generate layouts in the web app, and import your chosen design back into Revit as real, native elements. Your .rvt never leaves your machine. [See laiout for Revit](/sharing-and-exporting/laiout-for-revit) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Brief Autofill - Turn your brief into a ready plan** Upload your brief as a PDF, image, DOCX, or CSV and laiout will read it and populate your preferences automatically. Multi-language support, and you can review and edit before generating. [See Setting Your Preferences](/designing-your-space/setting-your-preferences) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Terrace Zones - Plan open-air terrace spaces** Terrace joins Balcony as an outdoor zone type. Same properties as Balcony but rendered fully open in 3D, so you can plan roofless outdoor spaces alongside covered ones. [See Zone Editing Overview](/editing-your-layout/zone-editing-overview) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Custom Zone Kinds - Create your own zone types** Custom zone kinds can now be requested directly in your preferences and generated automatically, sized to your specifications. Ideal for organisation-specific space types like Cinema Rooms, Bike Storage, or Wellness Areas. [See Zone Editing Overview](/editing-your-layout/zone-editing-overview) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Zone Variants - Set your own zone sizes** A new tab under Presets. Define what zone size variants mean for your organisation. Set the number of people, area per person, and total area for each variant, so every layout your team generates reflects your planning standards. [See Zone Variants](/organisation-settings/zones-and-colours#zone-variants) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Cost Profiles - Compare costs across pricing tiers** Set up different tiers of costs and CO2 values across your organisation. Compare how the same layout performs under different pricing or sustainability tiers, and switch between profiles at any point. [See Materials, Costs & CO2](/organisation-settings/materials-costs-co2) {% endhint %} ## Improvements {% hint style="info" %} **Aerial Renders - Render from any angle or height** Generate AI Renders from any angle, height, or position. Navigate to the view you want in the 3D model, then render directly from there. No fixed perspectives. [See Generating AI Renders](/visualising-your-space/generating-ai-renders) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Reference Image for Select & Edit - Guide edits with an image** Guide Select & Edit refinements with a reference image alongside your text prompt. Give the system both visual and descriptive direction for more precise refinements. [See Refining Renders](/visualising-your-space/refining-renders) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Pro Mode Overlays - Overlay reference plans on your floor** PDF, PNG, and JPG overlays are now available in Pro Mode. Layer engineering plans, ceiling drawings, or any reference visual over your Pro floor plans to compare and coordinate. [See Using Overlays](/designing-your-space/using-overlays) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **3D DWG Export - Export 3D DWG files** Export 3D DWG files alongside the existing 2D DXF and DWG options. Native to AutoCAD and importable into Revit, SolidWorks, and ArchiCAD for spatial coordination and BIM handovers. [See CAD / DXF Export](/sharing-and-exporting/cad-dxf-export) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Sort Favourites - Order your favourites your way** Sort your favourites by date saved or by name, straight from the top of the favourites list. Your preferred sort order is remembered across sessions. [See Saving Favourites & Comparing Options](/viewing-and-data/saving-favourites-comparing-options) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Copy Favourite - Duplicate any favourite** Duplicate any favourite from the three-dot menu. The copy is fully independent, edits stay separate from the original, and you can rename it at the point of duplication. [See Saving Favourites & Comparing Options](/viewing-and-data/saving-favourites-comparing-options) {% endhint %} *** *AI Renders is an optional add-on to your laiout subscription.* # May 2026 A summary of everything new in laiout this month. New zone types, expanded 3D camera options, AI Render Select & Edit, furniture placement on outdoor spaces, and a new way to show or hide elements in the editor. ## New features {% hint style="success" %} **Event Space Zones - Plan dedicated event spaces** Event Space is now a native zone type with its own properties and constraints, ideal for planning auditoriums, town halls, and large gathering areas. [See Zone Editing Overview](/editing-your-layout/zone-editing-overview) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Pod Area Zones - Add calling pods and booths** Calling pods are now a proper zone type, separate from meeting rooms, with their own icon and colour. Reflects how modern offices actually use small private spaces. [See Zone Editing Overview](/editing-your-layout/zone-editing-overview) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Orthographic and Axonometric Views - New 3D camera angles** New camera options in the 3D viewer for orthographic and axonometric projections, useful for technical presentations and architectural reviews. [See 3D View & Walkthroughs](/visualising-your-space/3d-view-walkthroughs) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **2-Point Perspective - New architectural camera view** Added 2-point perspective as a new camera setting in the 3D viewer for more architectural-style visualisations. [See 3D View & Walkthroughs](/visualising-your-space/3d-view-walkthroughs) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Select & Edit - Refine any part of a render** Tweak a selected area of an AI Render to refine specific parts of the image without regenerating the entire render. Faster iteration on the details that matter. [See AI Renders](/visualising-your-space/ai-renders-overview) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Furniture on Balconies and Terraces - Place furniture outdoors** Place furniture on external balcony and terrace zones, previously only supported indoors. Opens up planning for outdoor workspaces and breakout areas. [See Placing & Editing Furniture](/editing-your-layout/placing-editing-furniture) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Show or Hide Elements - Control what appears in the editor** Control exactly which elements are visible in the frontend, helping you focus on what matters for the task at hand. {% endhint %} ## Improvements {% hint style="info" %} **Glass Partition Walls - Show partitions as glass** Glass partition walls now render more realistically in the app and in Revit exports, improving the visual quality of presentations. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Revit 2025 Export - Export to the latest Revit version** Added support for upgrading Revit files from 2024 to 2025 within the export pipeline. [See Revit Export](/sharing-and-exporting/revit-export) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Refreshed Zone Icons - Clearer icons across zones** Zone kind icons have been refreshed throughout the interface for clearer recognition, including a new colour for Pod Area. {% endhint %} *** *AI Renders is an optional add-on to your laiout subscription.* # April 2026 A summary of everything new in laiout this month. AI Renders expanded across the platform with new export options, major Revit and IFC export quality improvements, and updates to favourites, custom furniture upload, and dimensioning. ## New features {% hint style="success" %} **AI Renders in PDF Exports - Add renders to your PDFs** Photorealistic AI Renders can now be embedded directly in your PDF exports alongside the floor plan and stats, creating a single polished document to share with stakeholders. [See PDF Export](/sharing-and-exporting/pdf-export) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **AI Renders in Shared Links - Add renders to shared links** AI Renders are now available within Shared Links, so external stakeholders can view the photorealistic visualisations without needing a laiout account. [See Shared Links](/sharing-and-exporting/shared-links) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Saved Prompts - Save and reuse render prompts** Save your favourite render prompts and reuse them across projects and floor plans for consistency and speed. [See Styles and Prompts](/visualising-your-space/styles-and-prompts) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Lock Style - Keep one style across renders** Lock the visual style across multiple AI Renders to maintain consistent aesthetics throughout an entire project or portfolio. [See Styles and Prompts](/visualising-your-space/styles-and-prompts) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **AutoDimensions - Automatic dimension lines** Dimension lines now adjust automatically when you move objects in the layout, removing the need to manually update them as you iterate. {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Favourite Details - See key metrics on each option** Each saved favourite now displays its own metadata, making it easier to compare options at a glance without opening them individually. [See Saving Favourites](/viewing-and-data/saving-favourites-comparing-options) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Custom 2D Furniture - Upload your own furniture** Furniture upload now supports 2D files in addition to 3D, broadening what you can bring into your custom furniture library. [See Custom Furniture Upload](/editing-your-layout/custom-furniture-upload) {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Colour Profiles - Brand outputs with your colours** Define colour profiles per client and apply them automatically across all layouts and exports, ensuring brand consistency at portfolio scale. {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Manual Zone Assignment - Assign furniture and doors to zones** Furniture and doors no longer get auto-assigned to zones the moment you place them, giving you more control over your workflow. {% endhint %} ## Improvements {% hint style="info" %} **Revit Export Quality - Improved Revit export output** Multiple improvements to Revit exports including the creation of Revit rooms and areas from zones, corrected door directions, and resolved wall expansion into corridors. The DA4R export pipeline quality has also been improved. [See Revit Export](/sharing-and-exporting/revit-export) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **IFC Export Quality - Improved IFC export output** IFC exports now include missing metadata, property sets, and spatial relationships. Compatibility issues with ArchiCAD have been resolved. [See IFC Export](/sharing-and-exporting/ifc-export) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **DXF Cleaner Units - Choose your measurement units** Expanded the unit options available when cleaning DXF files, giving you more flexibility for non-standard files. [See Cleaning DXF or DWG Files](/upload-modes/cleaning-dxf-or-dwg-files) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Faster Projects Page - Images load more smoothly** Project images on the projects page now load progressively as you scroll, dramatically reducing initial page load times for organisations with large portfolios. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Floor Settings Permissions - Control member access to settings** Team members can now edit floor settings directly, removing the need to escalate to an admin for routine changes. [See User Roles & Permissions](/organisation-settings/user-roles-permissions) {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **GEA on Projects Page - See GEA at a glance** GEA is now used consistently across the project page for clearer area reporting. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Refreshed Interface - Updated component library** A behind-the-scenes upgrade to our component library means small visual refinements across the entire app, including improved spacing in dropdowns, panels, and tables. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Smoother Floor Preferences - More responsive settings panel** The floor preferences panel now responds better to different screen sizes for easier editing. {% endhint %} *** *AI Renders is an optional add-on to your laiout subscription.*