Loftsnið

Loftsnið is a term used in Icelandic architectural practice to denote a vertical cross-section view of a building that cuts through the attic or upper spaces. The word combines loft, meaning attic or upper level, and snið, meaning cut or section. A loftsnið provides a view of the relationship between roof structure and interior spaces that is not visible in plan drawings.

Purpose and content: In a loftsnið, the viewer sees structural elements such as the roof ridge, rafters or trusses, wall construction, ceiling height, and floor levels. The drawing also typically shows insulation layers, vapor barriers, ventilation, and sometimes mechanical and electrical services. It helps establish how the roof and attic relate to habitable spaces, confirming headroom, fire separation, and material compatibility.

Applications: Loftsnið is used during design, analysis, and construction, especially for projects involving attic renovations or loft conversions. It aids architects, engineers, and builders in coordinating construction details, assessing feasibility, and communicating dimensioned information to contractors. The drawing is often produced at key design stages and may be included in construction documents alongside floor plans and elevations.

Variations and notation: A project may include a full cross-section or partial sections focused on specific roof planes or wall assemblies. Scale commonly ranges from 1:50 to 1:100, depending on the level of detail required. In Nordic architectural practice, loftsnið is one element in a broader set of drawings used to convey a building’s vertical structure.

See also: architecture, architectural drawings, cross-section, construction documents.