What is a setout?

A setout is a term used in construction and architecture to refer to a process of marking out the positions of building components, such as walls, doors, windows, and other structural elements, on a construction site before they are installed. This process helps ensure that the building components are placed in the correct locations according to the design plans. Setouts are typically done using measurements and reference points to guide the construction process.

In Surveying:

- Survey Setout: The process of marking out points, lines, and other features on the ground based on plans or design documents. It involves transferring the design from paper to the actual site.

In Construction:

- Concrete Setout: The process of marking and preparing the location for pouring concrete, including:
- Determining the shape and dimensions of the concrete area
- Installing formwork
- Setting up reinforcement
- Joinery Setout: The process of marking and preparing the locations for installing joinery (e.g., doors, windows, cabinets) in a building.
- Excavation Setout: The process of marking and preparing the boundaries for excavation work, such as trenching or foundations.

Other Contexts:

- Estate Setout: The layout and planning of a residential or commercial development, including the placement of buildings, roads, and amenities.
- Landscape Setout: The design and placement of plants, trees, and hardscaping in a garden or landscape.
- Theater Setout: The arrangement and positioning of scenery, props, and actors on a stage.