Log Home Living – June 2019

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Best Log & Timber Floor Plans 2019 | (^17)
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to
square feet,” Derek explains. “It’s 50
square feet on the main level, and it’s
basically creating a 50 square foot hole
on the upper level.” So, in looking at our
1,200-square-foot example, that’s 100
square feet or more than 8 percent of the
home’s total living area.
If you absolutely need or want a
multi-level home, take the staircase
into account as you plan. For instance,
if you’re want to live in 1,500-square-
foot home, design one that’s actually
1,600 square feet to account for stairs
and other necessities, so that you have
a solid 1,500 square feet of maneuver-
ability.
Also, maximize the area beneath
the stairs with closets, shelving or
workspaces. Make sure you think
about placement as well, so the stairs
take up as little unnecessary space
as possible.
5
Kitchen Decisions. No matter
what kitchen layout you choose
— whether it’s a simple galley or a
more elaborate U-shape — certain
elements need to be included no
matter what.
The fridge is going to take up the
same amount of space in a small home as
it would a larger one. Same with the dish-
washer and the range — all those sorts of
items have set dimensions. The difference
will be in the magnitude of the appliances
and features you chose to incorporate.
“In a small home, you’re not typically
going to have a grand kitchen. You’re not
going to have an island big enough for a
prep sink or things like that,” Derek says.
“You may have some island seating, but
it’s going to seat three or four instead of
six or more. So, in general, it’s going to
be tighter and more compact.”
Opening it up to other spaces, such
as the dining room and living area, help
make it feel more spacious, but it’s im-
portant to think back on those appliance
sizes when shopping, so they don’t
overpower your space.
Overall, small home design is really
just an exercise in smart home design.
Think about what you really want, how
much space you need to feel comfort-
able and work with a professional to
help you achieve the right combination
of spaces for a home that functions well.

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