Using Area Sheets

Within Ediphi, estimates are generated using parametric design data (Area Sheets) and linked to dynamic formulas that are resistant to errors. This approach ensures the stability of the estimates, unlike in Excel. By utilizing project area information (e.g. number of floors, perimeter, floor-to-ceiling height), we are able to populate manageable units of scope (e.g. unit mix, systems), referred to as "estimating components" in Ediphi, while adhering to the building’s geometry constraints.

This functionality enables users to save time during the collaborative design process and prevents costly mistakes when manually entering quantities. Users can utilize Ediphi’s area sheets to promptly adapt to design changes. For instance, adding a floor or modifying the floor height will automatically update the entire estimate across all estimating components.

In this article, we will review the basic functionality of the Area tab in Ediphi. Please navigate to the side panel within your Project and select Estimate, then Area Sheet. Once there, you will notice the area sheet and a number of sections to the right, such as Use Groups, Facade, Gross Structure, and Vertical Transportation.

For basic usage, the key areas to focus on are the options within the area sheet such as Below Grade, Above Grade, and Features. Here, you can begin to define the various aspects of your building, such as whether it includes below grade floors, above grade floors, or features like soffits or other structures. 

Another area to focus on is in Facade. Every floor that you add will have a Perimeter and a Floor to Floor, which will provide us with our Gross Facade and assist us when calculating different aspects of the building later on. 

The next step is to proceed to your takeoff to obtain the necessary measurements to input into the Area Sheet. In the example below, the takeoff has already been completed, and the area and perimeter for our Use Group have been documented: there is a gross area of 20,000 sqft and a total linear footage of perimeter of 1,000 lf. It is assumed that, for this example, there is a floor-to-floor height of 15 ft in this building. This process should be carried out for every floor in our project where this use group is applicable, and the obtained measurements should be entered into our Area Sheet.

We also have a feature that allows users to select a box or cell, upon which a handle appears in the corner of the box. This enables users to replicate a value across different sections. For instance, in Above-Grade Parking, one can use the handle to drag and copy the value to other cells within the column:

In addition to dragging, you can also copy and paste by using the keyboard shortcuts Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V, similarly to Excel. Once all the values from your takeoff are added, the Area Sheet should resemble the following:

A couple more things to note:

• Every checkbox resembles an Active Floor in which those values are assigned. You can select or deselect any Below-Grade, Above-Grade, or Features as active floors.
• The Gross Structure tab enables you to input the Gross Structure of each floor, if applicable.
• The Vertical Transportation tab allows you to add any form of vertical transportation, such as stairs, elevators, or escalators, to your Area Sheet. Additionally, by clicking the ellipses on each vertical transportation, you have the option of editing, duplicating, and deleting.
• Right-clicking is your friend. On each floor, you have the option of inserting floors above or below the selected floor, moving the selected floor up or down, as well as deleting the floor.
• Under the Facade tab, you will see Party Wall. Party Walls are walls that are shared by two adjoining buildings or properties, typically positioned on the boundary line, and are used by both property owners for structural support or separation.
• Use the visual guide below to better understand the different terms (ex. Facade, Vertical Transportation, etc.)

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our support team, and we’ll be happy to help!