Module 03: Planning Considerations for Different Types of Room and Spaces

Summary/What you will learn:

Why each room in a house or commercial setting warrants special consideration What to consider when designing a kitchen What to consider when designing a living room What to consider when designing a bedroom What to consider when designing a bathroom What to consider when designing an office What to consider when designing other commercial layouts, such as restaurant spaces

3.1 Ensure that the spaces you are carefully considered

What you need to think about when designing different types of .

There are a set of general principles that apply when designing rooms and spaces of all types, many of which were outlined in the previous module. A will tend to manage a project in the same way, whether they are working on a kitchen, an office, a set of rooms and so on. However, various types of spaces are used in different ways and for different purposes. The activities typically conducted in a space will play a role in determining its layout and the materials to be used.

For example Tiling is generally not favored as a flooring material in bedrooms, but it is easily cleaned and water-resistant, making tiles a common choice for bathrooms. In this module, we will look at the questions a designer will ask when putting together a design for a particular type of space.

3.2 Special considerations that apply when designing kitchens

“The kitchen is the heart of the home” is a cliché for a reason.

Kitchens are often high-traffic areas and their design needs to accommodate regular use. Another problem comes in the form of appliances – because a kitchen usually includes a stove, a fridge, a set of counter units, a dishwasher, a microwave and other pieces of equipment, pulling together a coherent look can be challenging.

A designer must establish early on what equipment a client will require in their kitchen, how often they intend to use it and how much space they will need when preparing food. The answers to these questions will depend on the client’s lifestyle; such as a couple who love to entertain their friends and family at home, who will probably be more concerned with food preparation space than a single parent with a young child.

Whatever the client’s specific requirements, almost any kitchen will need to be designed with three “zones” in mind – a washing zone (the sink), the preparation zone (the refrigerator and counters) and the cooking zone (centered around the oven). Source: Grimley, C., & Love, M. (2013). ‘The Reference & Specification Book’. Beverly, MA: Rockport. need to think not only about the aesthetics of a kitchen but also address potential safety concerns.

For example Cooking entails working with heat, so it is not a good idea to position appliances in such a way that everyone entering the room has to walk directly in front of the stove. Other practical considerations involve ventilation – some kind of system for eliminating smoke and odors will be required and appropriate waste receptacles will also need to be included in the plan. Again, this warrants in-depth thinking regarding the ways in which people will actually use the kitchen in day to day life.

For example It is conventional to position a bin within a cupboard close to the sink, so that food waste can be removed from dishes before they are placed in a dishwasher or sink. There are several commonly-used layouts that designers use as inspiration when designing a kitchen. In small spaces, or when a simple design is called for, a single-walled kitchen is appropriate.

This consists of one “strip” of appliances and preparation spaces arranged so that utility and convenience are paramount. There should be sufficient counter space on either side of the sink and the stove so that people can prepare and cook food in safety and comfort. It is usual to place the refrigerator at one end of the strip, as it is not necessary to reserve space to either side. A popular kitchen layout in small homes is referred to as a “galley kitchen.” This entails two strips of appliances and preparation spaces, at least three feet apart, running along opposite walls. One side is normally reserved as a preparation area, consisting of countertops and space for a fridge. The other is devoted to cooking and washing, with a sink and stove separated by countertops.

Because there is typically very little space for more than one person to move around the room, a galley design is not advisable if the kitchen links two rooms together.

Galley Kitchen

Another option is a U-shaped or L-shaped kitchen, which employs three or two walls respectively. These layouts are appropriate for most medium and large spaces. Sometimes part of the countertop can be designated as an eating area.

U-shaped Kitchen Finally, island kitchens are another option, if ample space is available. This entails placing a freestanding counter – the “island” – a few feet away from the main kitchen appliances and counters. Surface materials are another key consideration. The materials selected will depend upon both the client’s budget and the style of cooking they prefer.

Island Kitchen For example Marble is a good choice for kitchen surfaces if those using it will make pastry on a regular basis because it will keep the ingredients cool.

Fact

Ninety-eight percent of Americans prefer to cook meals at home. Source: reportlinker.com 3.3 Special considerations that apply when designing living rooms

Of all the spaces within a typical home, the living room offers designers and clients the best opportunity to exercise their creativity.

Unlike a kitchen, dining room, or bathroom, a living room can be configured in almost any imaginable . However, it is conventional to base the design of a living room around tables and chairs of varying proportions.

Selecting furniture – a topic we will look at in greater depth later on in the course – is a matter of balancing style with comfort and practicality. In terms of a living room, it is important to consider how the furniture will be used and how people will interact when using the space.

For example If a living room is designed for a couple who intend to use it as a space in which to relax after a hard day at work, it makes little sense to base the design around two armchairs positioned several feet away from one another. In designing this kind of space, you need to think about who will be socializing in the space and the degree to which they are intimate with one another.

Furniture arrangements can be classed as symmetrical or asymmetrical. The right choice will depend on the kind of mood the client is hoping to create and how they want the space to be divided. Maintaining complete symmetry, particularly if the furniture has clean lines, will create a formal atmosphere.

One or more collections of assorted items will give a more laid-back feel, but if overdone will appear sloppy. If a client wants attention drawn to an object or piece of furniture positioned in the center of the room then axis design principles can be implemented.

For example Positioning a group of chairs in such a way that there is an axis of symmetry can provide a neat focal point within an otherwise casual space.

3.4 Special considerations that apply when designing bedrooms

A bedroom needs to trigger feelings of rest and relaxation and encourage comfortable sleep.

The focal point and most important piece of furniture is the bed. It must be positioned in such a way that those sleeping in the room can access it easily. Factors to consider include how much space must be made available either on one side of the bed (if a single bed) or both sides (if two people are to share the bed).

There are industry-standard sizes for twin, full, queen, and king-sized beds and these are useful when putting together an initial floor plan. However, a designer should never assume that a client will choose a bed in line with these measurements.

It is important that, from an early stage, the designer knows precisely what kind of bed the client requires. There are now more types of bed available than ever before, including those which can be adjusted by the user to accommodate the height and angle preferences. Of course, it is vital to make sure that the bed will fit through the door. If the assembled bed is too large to pass through the door, the designer needs to ensure that it can at least be assembled within the room.

The inclusion of other furniture will depend upon both the size of the room and its intended use.

For example A large bedroom to be used by someone with a strong interest in fashion will probably feature a wardrobe, a vanity unit, or both. Bedrooms are often used to store personal items, predominantly clothing, so storage is a key consideration. If there is sufficient space, dressers and cupboards are the most common storage solutions. In smaller spaces or where a “clean” look is required, under-bed storage is another option.

Most bedrooms include only one bed and it is common to design practice to locate it in the center of the room. This allows for the maximum possible amount of space on either side. If two people are sharing the bed, it also allows for the placement of bedside tables and lamps on each side. If there are two or more beds in a room, it is important to allow enough space between them so that each person can get in and out of bed. It is also common to place a shared table between two twin beds.

Fact Thirty-five percent of Americans ages 18-60 are not getting the required seven hours of sleep needed for optimal health. Source: The Center for Disease Control Prevention

3.5 Special considerations that apply when designing bathrooms

A bathroom is subjected to daily use, so it needs to be designed with both practicality and comfort in mind.

Although the average bathroom consists of a toilet, sink and a bath or shower unit, there are several other potential configurations, depending on a client’s space and budget.

For example Downstairs bathrooms contain only a toilet and a sink, whereas “Master suites” may contain dual sinks, a shower, a separate bath, a bidet, and a walk-in storage space. Privacy is a key consideration when designing a bathroom. For example If two people share a bathroom on a regular basis (in the case of an en-suite), it is preferable to place the toilet in a separate enclosed space, rather than directly next to other fixtures. Safety is paramount. When someone uses a bath or shower, some water will invariably end up on the floor. Surfaces must be water-resistant and floors must be slip-resistant.

Lighting should be chosen with both safety and comfort in mind. There should be the main light source positioned on the ceiling and smaller lights over the shower or bath. If lighting is to be used next to wall mirrors, it should be positioned to the side rather than over the top.

The transition between the bathroom and adjoining rooms also requires careful thought.

For example A marble-tiled bathroom may be positioned just off a carpeted corridor. This is not a problem in itself, but a designer needs to ensure that there is no discernible “step down” between one room and another. A bathroom’s plumbing system will dictate how it can be designed or remodeled, especially if the bathroom is to be updated after a number of years.

For example Some older bathrooms feature tiles that are positioned on top of concrete, which makes them hard to replace. Plumbing supply lines may be hidden, unhidden, or even made into a feature, depending on the client’s desired aesthetic. Whatever their preferences, it is necessary to take a full survey of the system when commencing design work.

Activity 1: What Problems Might you Encounter when Designing a Bathroom?

Estimated time: 5+ minutes

Imagine that you have been asked to redesign a client’s bathroom.

What would you need to consider when drawing up a design? Think about the systems you find in the average bathroom and how a bathroom is typically used.

Take a Quick Recap Test

3.6 Special considerations that apply when designing an office

An office space usually contains the following three components: a working area that includes a flat surface, storage space for papers, and files and space for a computer.

Although people are increasingly flexible when it comes to where and how they work, they may perhaps prefer to use a laptop as opposed to a desktop PC – this three-point model still accommodates most office-based professionals.

Those with minimalist working styles may choose to use a lightweight desk with no drawers, but the majority of workers will need some integrated space instead of, or alongside, freestanding storage space. Office furniture can be broadly divided into those with vertical or lateral storage space. Units with lateral openings feature drawers that run across the unit’s broadest dimension, whereas those with vertical storage open along the narrowest side.

The best choice for any given space will depend on the client’s requirements and how much room they have available. In small workspaces, efficient storage is key, so a typical setup makes use of a unit with drawers which doubles as a flat work surface. Traditionally, most commercial storage units were grey, but they are now available in an infinite variety of surfaces and materials.

Freestanding office furniture is a good choice for medium or large-sized spaces because this allows workers the flexibility to conduct meetings or move their equipment around as required. During the design stage, the client and designer will need to work together to establish how the space will be used and how movable the furniture needs to be.

For example If the room is used for meetings of varying sizes, it is sensible to incorporate lightweight furniture that can be repositioned or even folded away when not in use. However, if a space is used as the main office by a single individual, a heavy wooden desk may be entirely appropriate, since the layout needs to accommodate only one person. Lighting and ventilation are also factors a designer needs to consider when putting together an initial floor plan and color scheme.

For instance If an office window is positioned in such a way that the sunlight entering the room is particularly strong at certain times of the day, it may make sense to readjust the furniture layout, to install blinds or both. Strip lighting may be the economical choice for offices, but it is becoming increasingly apparent that it triggers migraines and even panic attacks in some individuals, so other options should be considered.

The general consensus in the design industry is that natural light is the healthiest means of illuminating a room. Ventilation is also key, as a stuffy office will impair productivity. A designer needs to think about airflow, whether this is via windows, ducts, air conditioning, or a combination.

3.7 Special considerations to bear in mind when designing other commercial spaces

Other types of commercial environments, such as restaurants and exhibition spaces, require a designer to possess specialist knowledge.

It takes considerable experience to oversee projects of this scale and mistakes can be costly. It would be unwise for a designer who has only worked in residential settings to try and overhaul a large restaurant. There are practical considerations involved that do not apply to residential or office spaces, such as acoustics and specialist equipment

For example Large-scale kitchens. Moreover, it is much more likely that a designer will be collaborating with structural engineers, architects and health and safety inspectors when working on a project of this type.

At the same time, there are some design principles that apply regardless of the space in which a designer is working. For both residential and commercial spaces, a designer must always begin with the intended purpose of the space in mind.

When working in a residential setting, this concerns the client’s lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

When designing a restaurant, art gallery, or other commercial space, the key factors to bear in mind include the clientele, the nature of the business, the intended “vibe” and the client’s business goals.

3.8 Designing accessible spaces

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all new buildings and structures must be wheelchair accessible. However, there are some building that cannot be retrofitted to allow for easy disability access.

Signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1992, the ADA identifies restaurants, retail stores, hotels, banks, and most other public buildings as buildings that are required by law to have wheelchair accessibility. If a building excludes users as a function of their disability status, the building will be in violation of the ADA.

Buildings older than 1992 do not need to be retrofitted, but all obstacles must be removed to allow for easier access. Although not always applicable, accessible interior design can be summarized as follows:

The transition from the outside of the building to the interior must be carefully considered The entrances ought to be step-free where possible and that the gradient leading up to an entrance be as shallow as possible. This means that a designer needs to ensure that there is no sudden increase in floor surface height between the outside and inside of the building. Openings to communal areas need to be adequately sized to allow access When making a floor plan, a designer needs to implement the minimum acceptable requirements as set out in the legislation.

Examples:

Accessible doors must have at least 32 inches of clear width as measured between the door’s face and the opposite doorstop. Clearance around doors must be 36 inches, door hardware must not require more than 5 lbs, and thresholds cannot be higher than 1/2 inch at accessible doors.

These requirements have a direct impact on the kind of color scheme and textures a designer will incorporate into their plans.

One of the ground-floor entrances must be designed with access in mind

At least one of the ground-floor entrances must have a minimum clear opening width in line with the figures set out in the ADA. This may affect the way in which a designer chooses to use color and ultimately the design of the place.

For example If access requirements mean that a space is larger than what was originally discussed with the client, a designer may suggest using darker colors to create a cozier ambiance. Bathrooms, showers, and other features also need to be laid out with access in mind, which directly impacts a designer’s plans for a room’s layout.

Sockets, entry phones, and other controls must be accessible All switches and sockets located in rooms must be positioned so that their centerline is 1-4 feet above floor . Other guidelines for best practice include:

Ensuring that the interior of a building can be seen from the outside This will ensure that those with access requirements can decide if they will be able to use the space, before accessing the building.

Clear signage should be used throughout a building Signs should indicate where visitors can find accessible handicap access such as a ramp or lift.

Doors should not be difficult to open People with physical disabilities typically find doors easier to use if they require a low level of force to open and close them. Automatic doors are a good choice in some scenarios, but they should be well-maintained and clearly marked, in order to minimize the risk of injury.

Revolving doors are not practical for most people with physical (and some non-physical) disabilities. If they are used as an entrance, another accessible door should be made available.

Door handles should be selected with accessibility in mind People with reduced dexterity and grip strength will benefit from door handles that offer low levels of resistance and are easy to grasp.

Reception desks should be inclusive and welcoming Communal reception areas should be well-lit so that a visitor can lip read if necessary. Hearing loops should be made available and clear signs put in place to draw visitors’ attention to this facility. In general, open-plan are preferable Open-plan designs minimize the need for doors and barriers and therefore support those with access requirements. At the same time, it is important to make sure that there are “quiet zones” available so that those with sensory processing issues can spend time alone if necessary.

Light reflection and sound reverberation should be reduced where possible Loud noises and brightly-colored environments can be too stimulating for those with sensory processing disorders. Where possible, wall and floor coverings should be selected with the intention of creating a peaceful, calming environment.

Contrasting colors, textures and tones can be helpful A complementary color scheme can assist those with sight impairments to identify the position of objects and surfaces within a space, thereby reducing the risk of injury and promoting independence.

Transitions and junctions between two or more floor materials warrant consideration Avoid hazards. Placing a smooth floor surface immediately adjacent to a carpet or rug could present a trip hazard, for an individual with impaired mobility or sight.

A “code” based on wall textures may be a viable system in some spaces Some people with access requirements may benefit from a “code” whereby a particular grain of wallpaper indicates a specific facility, such as an accessible bathroom.

The number of steps between stories should be kept to a minimum and staircases should be accessible. Staircases should contain the least number of risers possible and all handrails must offer the best possible access to those with physical disabilities. This is particularly important if there is no elevator available.

A range of seating should be provided Some people benefit from chairs and sofas without armrests, whereas others benefit from more structured seating. Provide seating options of varying heights if possible, some with armrests and some without.

While the building regulations set out the minimum acceptable standards and best practice for creating inclusive spaces, a designer can gain a great deal of personal insight by asking any prospective user – with access requirements – what they would like to see included or excluded from the space.

For example If a business is looking to renovate their office space and one of their employees uses a wheelchair, it would be sensible to request an interview with the individual and gain their perspective.

Activity 2: Making a Space Accessible

Estimated time: 10+ minutes Other than the ideas given above, can you think of any other ways in which a public building could be made more accessible? If you are not sure where to start, think about a place you visit often, such as a school, library, or community leisure center. What adjustments have been made? Do you think they are effective? If you were in charge of redesigning the space, would you suggest any improvements?

Assignment

Planning Considerations for Different Types of Room and Spaces

Time: 30+ minutes Hopefully, you took in as much of the information in this module as possible. To find out how well you have done, complete the following worksheet.

Download the worksheet below and complete.

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Module Summary

Whatever type of space you are designing, similar principles apply when choosing a layout, color scheme, and aesthetic style. However, there are particular considerations and potential pitfalls that need to be taken into account when designing different types of spaces. For example, kitchens are used for cooking and storing food and so the layout needs to ensure a convenient space in which people can prepare their meals.

An office environment will need to be practical and storage- focused, a bathroom needs to be designed with privacy and water resistance in mind and a bedroom should be a calm oasis.

Living rooms offer the most flexibility. With experience, you will soon come to appreciate the specific questions to ask a client as you begin designing their new space. In addition to the intended purpose of a space, it is also crucial to think about accessibility issues.

It is important to become familiarized with the various building codes as well as the in-depth documents, offering builders and designers guidance on how they can make sure spaces are accessible to all. Measures such as choosing door handles that are easy to open, selecting open-plan designs where possible and limiting the risk of sensory overload are just a few potential modifications that will produce inclusive spaces. [Tweet “I just completed Module 3 of the Interior Design Diploma Course”]