Concept:
Different types of floor areas are defined in building planning to distinguish between usable space and structural or circulation spaces.
Explanation:
Carpet area is the net usable area within a building, measured from wall to wall.
It excludes wall thickness, balconies, corridors, staircases, and other common areas.
Plinth area includes carpet area plus wall thickness and other covered spaces.
Built-up area further includes balconies and external walls.
Surface area is a general term and not specifically used to denote usable floor space.
Hence, the usable area of a floor is called carpet area.
Final Answer: \(\boxed{\text{Carpet area}}\)