Rengel + Nussbaumer, Chapter 7

In Chapter 7 of Rengel's book, how to think about residential design is laid out. Residential design is just one way of applying what we have learned from Rengel thus far, such as: circulation of a space, space adjacencies, furniture groupings, and creating a successful atmosphere for the client.

Designing an efficient home means keeping all of this in mind as well as the ratio to usable space to inhabitable space. Homes will end up being even more of a permanent solution for a client. This means, an interior designer will absolutely have to apply storage space and think about how that storage space could be used over time.

Fig. 1- This picture shows a cozy home that
utilizes the surrounding landscape
for a beautiful, scenic view.

A designer must also create a space that can fulfill the function of each room in a house. The foyer, living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom are rooms that can be used either for a specific function or multiple functions. And depending on the room and it's function(s), the designer needs to use the correct furniture and the correct furniture grouping. Dividing the residence into active and quiet spaces helps to keep to the room's function. What can be public or private in this home?

When designing a house it is helpful to take advantage of good views and natural light, as well as practicing economy (Fig. 1). Sharing walls and resources, while avoiding waste is a successful tactic.

Fig. 2- Above is pictured an area in a home
that works as a display area plus a
storage area. The client can then rearrange
his or her furniture or knick-knacks when and
wherever they want. 

A home is meant for displaying a client's interests and passions. When a designer is creating a residential space, he or she must remember to create a space that can maximize furnish-ability. Allowing this, gives a client the opportunity to showcase art, knick-knacks, or furniture (Fig. 2).

Children are always changing thus, a designer needs to create a space that change along side them. In Nussbaumer's Chapter 7, children with special needs, as well as different ages and genders need to be accommodated correctly. Nussbaumer has also mentioned that one should also consult with a professional who specializes in design for children and/ or health care (including psychological) service providers.

Fig. 3- This library at a children's school
allows a different area for kids
to spread out and interact.

Children also make up measurements in anthropometric data. There are similar movements between children and adults, however, children jump, turn and twist, and stand on their toes, unlike most adults. A thoughtful designer would observe children at play to measure the correct amount of space a child would need (Fig. 3). Children are also constantly growing and sometimes very rapidly growing. This could also change anthropometric data, and the designer should pay close attention to how a child's height will work through the space after a period of time. Different genders of children will also have a different reaction to a space.

Fig. 4- The furniture and wall pictured above
contain multiple different colors. This is great
for kids because of the brightness. However,
if a child with special needs cannot handle
this type of sensory overload, the designer
may want to rethink his or her design.

Spaces designed for children with special needs will demand greater attention because of physical or neurological challenges. This is an opportunity where a professional outside source could be very helpful to the design of a project. Depending on how children with special needs react to a space, a designer may be only able to stick to certain colors, layout, or furniture (Fig. 4). Consulting with a professional that works in a field helping children with special needs will allow the designer to make decisions for a space that will work for everyone and comply with accessibility.