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Floor Area Ratio


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268082
Floor Area Ratio

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is a crucial factor in the realm of urban planning and architecture. It is a tool used to determine the maximum amount of floor space that can be constructed on a given plot of land. FAR is calculated by dividing the total floor area of a building by the area of the lot on which it is built. The resulting ratio is used to ensure that the building meets the relevant zoning regulations and that it is structurally sound. FAR plays a significant role in the development of urban areas. It is used by architects, planners, and developers to determine the optimal use of land and to balance the needs of the community with the economic viability of a project. A higher FAR allows for more efficient use of land and can lead to a higher density of buildings, which can be beneficial in areas with limited space. However, a higher FAR can also lead to overcrowding and a lack of green spaces, which can negatively impact the quality of life of residents. In contrast, a lower FAR can lead to more open spaces and a more aesthetically pleasing design. However, it may also result in a less efficient use of land and limit the potential for economic development. Therefore, it is essential to strike a balance between the needs of the community and the economic viability of a project. In addition to its role in urban planning, FAR is also used in the appraisal of real estate. It is a crucial factor in determining the value of a property, as it affects the potential for development and the overall building costs.

FAR, urban planning, architecture, zoning regulations, economic viability

Eric Davis

CITATION : "Eric Davis. 'Floor Area Ratio.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=268082 (Accessed on April 29, 2025)"

246097
Floor Area Ratio

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is an important factor in urban planning and architecture. It is a measure of the total floor area of a building compared to the size of the land it is built on. FAR is calculated by dividing the total square footage of the building by the total square footage of the land it is built on. The FAR is then expressed as a ratio. A higher FAR means a higher density of building, while a lower FAR means a lower density of building. The FAR of a building project should be decided by the architect and building contractor jointly in order to determine the most appropriate design for the area. A higher FAR may result in a more efficient use of the land, while a lower FAR may result in a more aesthetically pleasing design.

Residential, Commercial, Height, Density, Structure.

Sarah Hall

236326
Floor Area Ratio

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is a tool used by architects to calculate the total amount of floorspace available in a building relative to the area of the building's lot. FAR is expressed as a ratio that is calculated by dividing the total floor area of a building by the surface area of the plot it is built on. This ratio helps architects to understand the development potential of a given building site, and to identify the optimal design solution that best meets the local zoning regulations. FAR is a key factor when assessing the financial feasibility and sustainability of a project, as it influences the overall building costs and the eventual sale value of the property.

Urban planning, zoning, density, development, sustainability.

Michael Adams

236319
Floor Area Ratio

Masonry is a time-honored and treasured building practice, and it has been used for centuries in the construction of many structures. Floor area ratio (FAR) is a critical factor in the construction of masonry buildings, as it is a measure of the total floor area of a building as it relates to the total area of the lot upon which it is built. FAR is determined by dividing the total floor area of a building by the area of the lot, and then multiplying the result by 100. This calculation allows architects and designers to ensure that the building meets the relevant zoning regulations and that the structure will be structurally sound.

Building density, zoning, massing, land use, capacity, occupancy.

Shelly Stone


Floor Area Ratio Definition
Floor Area Ratio on Design+Encyclopedia

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