Space Space PlanningPlanningObjective

5.01

Grouping by FUNCTION

0When designing the layout of a house, rooms with similar functions are usually grouped together

0Grouping by FUNCTION is the most efficient way to organize space

0Most spaces can divided into categories:0Quiet or private area0Service or work areas0Social area

Quiet/Private AreasBedrooms and Bathrooms

Bedrooms0Usually about 1/3 of the house is dedicated to the

sleeping area0Houses are usually categorized by the number of

bedrooms0Most bedrooms are grouped together in a quiet

area of the house.

Bedrooms0Bedroom sizes:

0Small 100 square feet 0Average between 125 and 175 square feet0Large 175 square feet or larger

0Each bedroom must have a closet0All bedrooms must have at least 1 window0 Ideal bedrooms will have at least 2 windows

Now for the other private area….

Bathrooms!

Where we have come from…ancient Rome

Consider the following when planning for baths:

0Locate baths near existing plumbing lines to lower construction costs

0Position bathrooms to provide sound barriers between private and social areas

0Consider how many people will use the bath0Design and measure the layout carefully as it is difficult

and expensive to move fixtures0Allow space for safety0Check local building codes for minimum requirements

needed for the bath.

Half Bath

¾ Bath

Full Bath

Master Bath

Service or Work Areas

Kitchen, Laundry, Basement, Garage, Service Entries,Special Purpose Rooms,

Storage Areas

Kitchens0 Located near service entrance and dining area0 Circulation from other areas should not pass through the

kitchen

L-Shaped Kitchen0Appliances and cabinets are arranged along

2 adjoining walls0Allows an open area that may be used for

dining.

U-Shaped Kitchen0Appliances and cabinets that are arranged

along 3 adjoining walls0Has the most continuous counter space.

G-Shaped or Peninsula0An L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen with an attached

island at one end.

Single or One Wall Kitchen

0All appliances and cabinets are on one wall 0Takes the least amount of space but has

limited storage & countertop area.

Corridor or Galley Kitchen0Appliances and cabinets are arranged along 2

walls, with an aisle between them0Has a compact efficient work triangle.

Laundry0 Depending on the

needs of the family, located in the kitchen, mudroom, utility room, sleeping area, or basement

Service Entry

0 Entrance to the house that often leads into the kitchen.

0 It is preferable that it opens into a mud room

Special Purpose Rooms

0 Rooms dedicated to one purpose such as a home office or exercise room

Social Areas

Main Entry, Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room,

Multipurpose Room

Main Entry - Foyer

0 Formal entrance to a home

Multi-Purpose or Family Rooms

0 Rooms that provide space for multiple activities such as visiting, reading, and watching TV