master planning
a complete home renovation Design set - first round of sketches
The location of the Master Suite was established. The initial issues were to determine the connection of the existing and new structures, and the traffic pattern between the existing family room and the new Master Suite. A direct connection via a door between the two rooms would potentially compromise privacy in the master. Pushing out the wall that served as access to a small, rarely used patio created a transitional hall. Normally, I would seek to eliminate hallways, as they are generally an inefficient use of space. But this would serve several purposes: access to the master; the ability to bring in light that could possibly, in the cooler months, allow the inner block wall to absorb heat to be later released; introduce re-light into the master bath through glass block and/or art glass; and, lastly, add a bit of mystery as to where one is being led.
The Master Bath was located against the existing exterior wall of the family room. A plumbing wall could be furred out and insulated for sound. Access to the sewer line is not problematic. The bath, and really the entire suite, is an open floor plan. No interior doors. The tub is placed at the far west wall underneath a large window, offering even more light. A privacy wall is just outside. A small garden could be introduced. This exterior corner of the family room is where the gas meter is located. The gas line may need to be adjusted, the meter can stay.
The space for the remainder of the master is drastically minimized. There is just enough for movement and access, but no more. The walk-in closet is accessed on either side of the king-size bed and offers plenty of space for hanging clothes, storage, and whatever custom cabinets may be required. Shelves for books and such can be installed on the separating wall above the bed.
A floating false ceiling (transom) extends from the south wall, over the wall separating the walk-in closet and sleeping area, over the tub, double sinks, and toilet. This architectural element can serve many functions such as housing for task and generally lighting, electrical and/or mechanical runs, and a means by which introduce the human scale into a space.
Light pours in from every wall, but is controlled to minimize heat in the summer, and allow it in for the winter months. A custom steal awning will aid in this by filtering and diffusing the light from the sun much in the same way the leaves on a tree would.
