Room Planning, and living area Chapter 6 Room Planning, and living area

Living Area The living area is the part of the house that most friends and guest see. This is the area that usually becomes the showplace. Comprises 1/3 of the house.

It is the place for family get-togethers , and dining. It is the area for recreation, entertaining and just relaxing.

The living area is composed of a number of rooms. Living Room Dining Room Foyer Family Room Sunrooms Home Office Recreation Room

Living Rooms Can be the center of activity. Living rooms are of all sizes and shapes. A small living room would only have about 150 square feet. Average size would be around 250 square ft. A large size may exceed 400 sq ft depending on the home.

The most important questions to ask regarding size and design of a living room are: What type of furniture How often will the room be used How many people will use the room How many function will the room be used for. Is the room proportion to the rest of the home

The location of the living room should not be such that a natural traffic pattern will be established through it to other parts of the house. Locate the room so other members of the family will not feel a need to use it as a hall to get to other areas of the house.

Slightly raising or lowering the living room helps set it apart from other rooms. If handicapped people are involved and wheel chair access is needed the room should stay on grade.

If the building site contains a pleasing view then consideration should be given in designing the living room to take advantage of the view. Consider orientation of the living room for maximum comfort and energy conservation. The north side is usually shaded and cool.

The use of large windows or sliding doors further encourage a feeling of spaciousness. A properly designed living room can be a functional part of the house Modern living rooms should be exciting, colorful and inviting.

Dining Rooms Main purpose of the dining room is to provide a place to eat. Many homes provide a formal dining room and an eating area in the kitchen. A small dining room would be 120 sq ft. and would provide space for a table and 4 chairs.

Medium dining room would provide space for 6 to 8 people with a buffet and china closet. (12’ x 15’) A large dining room would range in size from 14’ x 18’ or larger. In most cases a dining rooms size is determined by the need of the family

Typical dining room furniture includes the table and chairs, buffet, china closet, and possible serving area. Usually 2’-0” is ok behind the back of a chair and to the wall with someone sitting in the chair for clearance.

Location of the dining room is important Location of the dining room is important. It should be adjacent to the kitchen. When you have an open dining room the room seems a lot bigger.

Entryway Every house has at least one entryway but not all have a foyer. There are three basic types of entryways: Main entry Service entry Special purpose entry

The foyer is that part of the house that you enter into and branch to other parts of the house. A foyer will have a coat closet close. The size of the foyer depends on the house. Foyer

The size of the foyer will depend on several factors. Size of the house Cost of the house Location Personal preference Hall ways that are in homes are no narrower that 3’-0”. FHA recommends a 3’-6” hallway

Well styled doors are a key element in the design of the entry. Entry door are 3’ wide and vary in height. Standard height is six feet eight inches The service entrance from the garage is 2’-8” wide and 6’-8” tall. Back doors are 2’-8” minimums and 6’-8” tall.