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Architectural Floor Plan DesignA critical part of competent architectural design, the floor plan should be tailored to fit the owner's functional needs and lifestyle. To that end, the following categories are relevant to floor plan design:
Relative locations of spaces or 'flow' As in architectural site design, the floor plan ideally connects with important site features. As is the case with competent architectural site design, the larger the site, the more flexible the floor plan design becomes. Often, the master suite and general living areas 'connect' with site views, usually the back yard. A strong visual connection between the kitchen and living spaces can, for example, be optimal. The best flow of spaces is achieved through direct conversations between the owner and architect. Jim Finch Architecture will work with you closely to maximize the flow of interior and exterior spaces. Relative sizes of rooms Often the owner prefers the master suite to be significantly larger than other bedrooms. Connected with the lifestyle of the owner, the room sizes and 'openness' of rooms should follow the owner's preferences and degree of use of each room. Lifestyle of owner A married couple with children will, for example, have different needs than a retired couple. The floor plan design should reflect the needs of the owner. Architectural interest Ceiling configurations (vaulted ceilings, flat ceilings, 'tray' ceilings), arches, art 'niches', and use of materials and color are a few of the ways an otherwise stale environment can 'come to life'. Room relationships and private versus 'public' spaces also need to be defined and considered. Budget If budget is not of concern to you, you'll be my first client in that category. A good first 'step' in design is to define (at least loosely) the budget. From there, the scope of the project is better understood. Total square footage of the house has a large, but not exclusive impact on the budget. Residential contractors can give an estimate of cost of construction based on a 'dollar per square foot' number. This number is to be used only as a starting point. Call me at (813) 838-0425 for more details on this process. Choice of building materials also can have a large impact on the budget. For a simplistic example, wood floors throughout will cost more than carpet throughout. Also, granite kitchen countertops are more costly than laminate countertops. As the owner (and through the architect), you have control over which areas require a higher level of material use. The cost of construction is ultimately decided between the contractor and the owner after the project general contractor studies the final design drawings. Jim Finch Architecture will work with the client to help make the design fit the budget. There are many dimensions to competent floor plan design. A few of those dimensions are outlined above.
Give me a call at (813) 838-0425 with any questions or comments about your Florida residential project. Residential Architect Florida: Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Bradenton, Lutz, Tarpon Springs, Land O' Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Springhill.
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