Architecture by Numbers

Formulas for good design.

What are the dimensions for…? How much room do I need for…?

Kitchen Counters

Are 36” high.

Counter depth is 24” + 1” overhang for a total of 25”.

Bathroom Vanities :

18-21” deep and are typically 30-34” high

You need minimum of 60” to get a double Vanity in, but we recommend at least 72” so two adults can stand next to each other at those sinks.

Closets:   need to be a minimum of 21” deep for a standard hanger to fit…go for 24” clear on the inside …you will be happier.

Porches:  less than 6’ deep are useless. 6’ gets you a rocking chair and room to walk pass. 8’ is good, but 10’-12’ is ideal for entertaining and hanging out on.

Paint:  One gallon of paint typically covers 400 square feet of wall surface.

Circulation: 

Doors:

3’-0” wide openings for doors to the exterior.

2’-6” to 2’-8 inches everywhere else unless you need

Wheel Chair Accessibility…then 3’-0” everywhere.

This also helps with getting large furniture and appliances into the space. Note: Double check that if you are getting a large Viking Range that you can get it into your house.

Halls or circulation paths need to be at least 36” but the closer you can get to 48” the more gracious it will be…this includes kitchen circulation.

The kitchen work triangle = the distance from Refrigerator to the Sink to Stove back to Refrigerator. Each leg of the work triangle should measure between 4’ and 9’ in length and the total length of all 3 legs should be between 12’ and 26’ with 21 being rated at the most efficient.

Bed Sizes:

Twin 39”x75

X-Long Twin found in Dorms 39” x 80

Full Size Bed 54”x75

Queen 60”x80

King 76”x 80

California King 72”x 84”

Couches:  What ever size couch you decide to get, research shows that rarely more than 2 people will sit on it together at one time….don’t know where the research is another one of those things Mother Mary always says…and I have noted the phenomenon at parties.

Dining Rooms:  The minimum dining room size is 12' X 12' this allows for proper circulation around the table and allows for 6 people to fit graciously...more if you are good friends.

Chandeliers: or pendant lights should be approximately 36” above the table/counter surface.
Shelves:  Books minimum 12" however 13" is better.  Dishes need 15" clear in an upper cabinets.  If  you have glass doors on your cabinets either use glass shelves or line the shelf up with the "grill" pattern on the door and for the Love of Good Design-- shelves should always be adjustable because stuff comes in different sizes.

Understanding Architectural Drawings

Below I have illustrated plans, section and elevations of a custom vanity pictured on the left.

Plans

The plan is a bird’s eye view looking down from three feet above the floor. I equate this to looking down at the top of a Birthday Cake.

Sections

Continuing with the Birthday Cake theme, a section would be like cutting into the cake and seeing all the layers.

The location of where the sections are cut are shown on the plan with a “cut line” and an arrow showing where the cut has been made and which way we are looking at the section. 
 
Elevations
The elevation shows us what we would see standing in front of the vanity. The location/point of the view is again noted with a circle and arrow on the plan. Referring back to the "cake", if you are looking at the side of the cake and it is a round cake, the drawing of this would be a rectangle.  Vertical parallel lines are used as shading to show the curve.
Tags

The corresponding numbers in these circles "Tags" tell us the drawing number and the drawing sheet/page in the set. As with the sections symbol, the number on the top of the line indicates the drawing number on a sheet and the bottom number is the page or sheet number in the set. While these drawings all occur on one sheet, the principle remains the same for a larger set of documents where the drawings are on many sheets ... you match the “tag” numbers.

Architects- choosing a good one will Increase your Return on Investment.

Today was a great day and not just because it is October 10, 2011, 85 degrees and sunny outside here in the Northeast, but because we received a note from a new clients. They write:

“WE initially consulted with an architect in 2004 with the thought of making a three story addition. In those days, you could almost be assured of making back any money that you invested in the house, but nowadays I think that the renovations need to be smarter and make better use of the space you have.” ….” We are in Maplewood in part because we love old houses, and would like to work with you (Clawson Architects) because your projects are sensitive to maintaining continuity with the style of the house, but provide improved use of space.”

Thank You!….we are thrilled that you see the value of using an Architect but even more, that you understand that Clawson Architects is different because we can deliver so much more than a box on the back. The Star Ledger classified the work by Clawson Architects as “smart and unique” and Period Homes wrote a profile about us and our worked titled “Tailoring Tradition”, both article featured various projects --all different styles and scales....but to have you the consumer tell us why is great feedback and confirmation that the word is out and that people can see a difference.
Clawson Architects, LLC prides itself on addressing our client’s project goals while building a sustainable relationship with them, and the built environment. We value creativity in our approach to problem solving where bigger is not always better. With over 50 years of combined experience between the partners we are qualified to offer innovative architectural design solutions for your property. We utilize a co-operative team approach to designing your project with you. Clawson Architects years of experience and our established network of professionals, craftsmen and vendors contacts has a proven track record in the metropolitan area. Clawson Architects, LLC values the opportunity to work with you on your project by designing alterations, renovations, additions as well as new homes that complement your lifestyle, decorative tastes and the architectural character of your property while working to meet your financial goals.

Businesses and Sales Coaches often ask what is the Value Proposition...what is it that you bring to the table and what is it that is different. Clawson Architects has a portfolio of Beautiful Projects: New Homes, Renovations and Addition Success stories. However from a purly numbers point of view, when looking at the Return on Investment (ROI) Clawson Architects has witnessed their client’s homes receive both post construction appraisals and post construction sales with between 22% and 200% Return on their Investment. Just one more reason to consider Clawson Architects as your Architect in a time when you need an investment you can count on.

So, Thanks again for choosing  to work with Clawson Architects, now lets get to work!

Celebrating the Season: Homecoming, Fall Harvest, Family Gatherings and Fire Prevention Month

Changing Seasons…Homecoming, Fall Harvest, Family Gatherings and Fire Prevention Month…What does this mean for the Architect and Interior Designer in me and to you the Home Owner.


The kids are back to school, the air has a bit of chill in the morning and I am starting to see some color on the leaves. So it is only right that I should see the overflow of magazines in the mail all with beautiful warm settings for welcoming friends and family to gather around and take part in the Harvest Bounty. There are candle lit tables, jack-o-lanterns and lots and lots of cooking being discussed in these product magazines and on line. It is no accident that this is the retail season for Tables and Table Settings when it comes what is on the shelves in the stores right now. Fall is Celebrating the Harvest with Cooking, Dining Room Sets and Table Settings.



NYC Upper East Side Dining Room by Clawson Architects

 From the dishes to dining room tables the stores are trying to sell a gracious lifestyle. They offer new ideas along side their products on how to add a little something extra to your apple pie with this pretty new pie pan or a Roasting Pan with “how to Turkey 101”. You are reassured that if you just buy their table and wares you will become the best entertainer that ever was. Your family members will gather with smiles bringing you the most thoughtful hostess gifts (also available in their stores) beautifully dressed and very good looking too. However, very few articles ever address the challenges of the season like enough room at that table, or how many people can actually gather to eat at that table.


So some tips for the Season and what will fit….
Table Sizes and Shapes & Other Things Considered: 

The Chair backs are high and the ceiling is low in the tradition of Frank Lloyd Wright centering the attention in on the Table and the conversations.

Conversation:
The Room:
The smallest dining room size of any use is 12 feet by 12 feet and will accommodate six nicely and eight if your friends and the table expands.


To insure good conversation and easy passing, tables that are rectangular in shape and about 36” wide work the best.

Round tables are great especially if you are into being equal as there is no “Head” of the table. A 48 inch round table seats six. A 60 inch round table seats eight to ten depending on the style of the chairs used. The bigger the round table and depending on how that table expands, the more you may want to consider a “lazy susan” for the center of the table or setting a buffet. If the table becomes an oblong shape you can typically squeeze folks a little closer around the end as the “head” of the table is not as predominate.


This Dining Room was designed by Clawson Architects with flexibility in mind.  See one of the alternate entertainment setting below (White Table Cloth)

 When looking at tables that extend, take the time to analyze weather or not you really get more seating. In some cases, the legs from the table interfere with the seating and additional settings are not actually gained. Consider a Pedestal base to avoid this. Often the table is featured in the store and catalogs with chairs on the end when if fact there is no over hang or the table is too narrow to have guests on both sides and someone sitting on each end. For a table to have a seat at the ends it often must we wider than the 36 “ as the depth of the table will take up the place settings on both sides. Don’t be afraid to try things out. Get some blue painter's tape and mark out the table on your floor. Take place mats to the store with you or grab some of theirs and put them around on your prospective table. Keep in mind that to be able to walk around someone that is seated at the table you will need 42” clear from the edge of the table to the wall, 48” is more gracious and means no one has to turn sideways or scoot in.


Lighting:
Lighting really sets the tone. If you are installing an overhead fixture consider the following:


The Multiple lights hung closer to the ceiling gives the room more flexibility for entertaining

Do you ever entertain and move the dining room table to the side? If so, you may want to make sure that the fixture is retractable or hung high enough that your taller guests don’t hit their head on it. If you never plan to move the table or have a standing cocktail style party, it should be installed so that the bottom is 36” off the table surface. Wondering how big the fixture should be, add the length and width of the room together and then exchange the word feet with inches and the diameter of the fixture should be in inches. (i.e. 14 feet + 18 feet = 32 feet so your fixture should be 32” in diameter.  An always choose to have the fixtures on a dimmer switch. 
Candles are a great way to set  light, decorate and add glamour to any event. Using glass chimneys to them will keep them a little safer …just keep in mind that with all the cooking, entertaining with candles and a fires in the fireplace it is no accident that the National Fire Protection Association has made the week of October 9th  Fire Prevention Week….humm.

So Celebrate.
Enjoy the season and the feasts and channel your best Martha whether you are the host or the guest.


For more guidelines and considerations about buying wood dining room tables check out the Amish Direct Furniture web site. They offer diagrams and information about the construction of quality furniture and even more things to consider.

Now I need to get back to work helping clients with those final details on their newly designed Clawson Kitchen as they have all graciously offered to host their Family's Holidays.

....oh! one more thing ...change your batteries in your smoke detectors!!! actually two and keep those gutters clear .

Back to School

....It has been a big  SCHOOL week for the Clawson Clan. We took our oldest daughter off to college for her freshman year, saw our son walk out the door to start his freshman year at the High School and tried to keep up with our third as she sashayed down the block, rocking her own sense of style-- anxious only to collect her Safety Patrol Belt and take charge as a new Fifth Grader.

But it does not end there in our house....as my husband and partner loves learning and teaching and works as an Adjunct Professor at The Fashion Institute of Technology and The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.  This fall within the Interior Design Department at FIT he will be teaching Materials and Methods--providing students with an understanding of the construction process as it relates to the building of interior spaces and Interior Architectural Detailing--a course addressing the basic elements of architectural wooodwork and related joinery methodologies and their application to the detailing of various custom components of interior spaces.  At the ICA this year there is a new program Beaux Arts Atelier --a one year intensive program in New York City in the study of architectural design folloiwng in the method of the Ecole des Beaux-Arts.  This year, the most exciting part for me, is that we will all join him when he travels to  California to Lecture in Los Angeles about "Literature and Theory of Classical Architecture."

As Chekov once said "knowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice.  Marvin has always been involved in lecturing or reviewing student work and prtfolios.  Besides his love of being an Architect, teaching and mentoring really compliments Marvin's spirit as he loves to share his passion of architecture and art. Have a question about how bikes go together, how scotch is made, why there are little circles embossed in the ring around the stick shift on a particular model car?-- give Marvin call he loves art and design and his attention to detail will amaze you.

I realized as I sat down on the couch last night, that on September 6, 2011 that I had actually attended 21 Elementary School "First Days". It is time for a new chapter in my life.  As you know from previous posts that being an Architect is a committment to Lifelong learning so, what do I want to learn about now?

Porches...

When clients inquire about building a deck...I must admit I am partial to porches with screened porches topping my list.  Why? Let me count the ways:

Decks are:
1. Too Hot.
2. Too Buggy.
3. Too Exposed to the elements.

Porches, on the other hand:
1. Provide more protection from the elements.
2. Provide creature comforts like lights and ceiling fans. 
3. Feel more like an extention of the house and when screened in... they keep the bugs out.

So, below are some of Clawson Architects favorite porches.  Enjoy.



With a covered balcony off the Master Suite, a porch off the kitchen dining area-- down to a patio,
this client has outdoor living spaces that allow them to enjoy their property from many levels. And for those who can't
decide you can have it all ...this house also has a deck off the kitchen on the other side.



From the first signs of spring until the end of fall, porches are great places to entertain day and night.

Porches act as an additional room. 



Nothing is more chaming than than the Period  Home with the wrap around front porch.

 




Wimsical wind chimes and a cool drink complete the mood on a hot summer day.
Wind chime by Krista McCaffery--Seaglassbeach Trinkets & Treasures



Cheers!

  



Curtain Call--

This Blog is dedicated to my Mother, Mary Steinkamp. She has taught me just about everything I know about window treatments and assisted me with all of mine.

Curtains and other window treatments are often the final touch that many of our clients struggle with. They often opt to go with the paper shades until they can wrap their heads around this detail.  So, today I am writing with a few considerations as well  tips and tricks that I think will help you with the process when you are ready. 

Things to Consider:

1.  The Architecture of the Room: 
Windows and their placement are typically designed to bring light into a room, frame a view, allow for cross ventilation and finally in the event of an emergency provide an escape.  When selecting the appropriate treatments, it should be noted that light comes in the top 1/3 of your window.  Other Architectural features to be considered would be the casings and sills around the window or lack of, radiators, window seats and surrounding mill work like flanking bookcases. How the window opens should also be considered...is the window a double hung, a slider, an awning or casement type.  Does it open in/out or is it fixed.

2.  The views to the outside: 
The use of window treatments could be used to block unpleasant views or block unwanted glaring light.  They can also frame views and harness the power and brightness of the sun.

3.  The views from the outside in:
(I know my Mother taught me this one.)  Take a walk around the neighborhood and look at the windows treatments selected by the neighbors from the outside.  To create a uniform look from the outside looking in will give your home a regal look from the street.   This can be achieved by starting with a base level in every window like a thin sheer or or white shade.  Building like the Seagram Building on Park Avenue, in New York City by Mies Van de Rohe have it in their lease agreement that  the window shades can only be in one of three positions, all the way up, half way down or all the way down and the window shades may not we altered or changed...not a bad rule for your own home.  Another reason for this walk is to see what the neighbors are seeing.  I was surprised to learn that the difference from the street level to my first floor windows was actually significant enough that the sight lines into the house only allowed a view of the heads and shoulders of those taller than about 5'-2".  That angle while giving me a full view of those on the street, did not allow anyone to see in.  In cases like this a sheer cafe rod may make you feel not as exposed psychologically. Landscaping can also aid in privacy while giving you an open feel in your home.

So, now that we have hit on the considerations, I have what I consider my top ten tips, tricks and rules of thumb...again many learned over the years from my Mother Mary.

Top 10 Tips and Tricks

1.  Sheers on spring rods are a good next step if you can't take the paper any more.


2. To achieve a fullness when gathered on the rod, curtains and sheers should measure 2.5 to 3 times the width of the window.  This creates those luxurious folds when they hang.   If you are using panels or allowing for the sheers to be split in the center and pulled back to each side, you will want to have each panel be 1.25 to 1.5 times the width.

3. If you want to enhance the size of window and call attention to it, select a rod that extends past the window 8-10  inches on each side so that the drapes when pushed to the sides are not covering any part of the glass view.

4. Mounting heights:  To achieve a grander space  making the ceiling seem taller place the Rod or Valence as high as possible . 

5. This leads us to length:  If your drapes or panels are purely decorative and do not move, they should touch the floor at a minimum or break 1/2" to 1 " on the floor.  If the curtains to not seem to be weighted enough on the bottom to hold the pleats or folds, sliding pennies or washers into the hem can be used to weight them down nicely.

6.  Another detail that adds richness to drapes and is often a tell tale sign between store bought and custom is the depth of the hem.  Curtains and Sheers should have at least a solid 4 inch hem. Mary would tell you to finish them by hand as well. If lined, the lining should be 1/2" shorter and have a 3-1/2" hem.  Now, for that professional look, the side hems should also be finished by hand if you want your drapes to look their best....as this is at eye level and one would have to get down on their hands and knees to check out the bottom hem on the floor.

7.  Linings and inner linings also tend to have a more luxurious feel and look.   The use of a black out lining on the back of drapes are nice in bedrooms and again if done in a white or neutral will give that uniform appearance from the street when closed.

8.  Trims like fringe and tassels not only add cost but style and drama.  So, if you are going to park a couch in front of it, consider trimming  just the Valance or the edge of a pull down shade.  Remember to consider the formality of the room.  It may be a little much.

9.  Touching on price again...If you can not afford custom drapes, stock curtains equal a single width of your window.  To achieve a more luxurious custom look, you may need to buy an extra panel to get the desired fullness and then enhance them with some trim or a custom Valence or nicer rod.

10.  There is a difference between stock curtains and custom...and it is usually the same as a suit.  Custom tailored and lined always look and feel better...but is not necessary in every situation.  If you buy stock curtain just do yourself a favor and at least iron them.

and the for a bonus
11. If you have Radiators under the window, book cases and or window seats you may want to considered  the use of interior shutters or shades and a Valence.

And in closing.... You may be saying I am not so crafty and neither is my Mother...or I wish I could sew...consider the fact that most drapes require you to be able to cut and sew in a straight line. Some friends have taken a class at the South Orange Maplewood Adult School on How to Sew Curtains and have created some amazing window treatments.  There are also quite a few DIY websites and books with no sew curtains ideas that are quite clever as well.

So, break a leg. If you use a few of these tips and tricks you are sure to get a standing ovation.