Optimising Space Planning for Functional Living

Space planning is the cornerstone of interior design, ensuring a space is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Proper planning not only maximizes the use of available space but also enhances the flow, comfort, and usability of a home. Informed by the Healthy Homes Guidelines and Checklist developed by the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity International , this advisory explores the essential principles of space planning in an accessible home, highlighting the optimal dimensions, layout, and orientation of kitchens, bedrooms, staircases, bathrooms and living areas.

1. Kitchen Layout and Orientation

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and its layout should prioritize efficiency and safety. A well-planned kitchen typically follows the "kitchen triangle" rule, where the stove, sink, and refrigerator are placed at the three points of a triangle, minimizing movement and optimizing workflow. It should also be close to the dining room to allow free flow of activities.

Ideal Dimensions?

A standard kitchen should be between 6.5m2 and 14m2, with variations depending on the layout and individual design preferences. The minimum kitchen size should be 3.75m2. Countertops should be about 0.6m, and there should be at least 0.9m of counter space on either side of the sink.

To enhance accessibility for disabled persons;

• Appliances should be positioned close together to reduce physical strain
• Include pull-out shelves and cabinets that are easily accessible
• Work surfaces should be properly sized and set at a lower height of 0.75m, with a knee recess of at least 0.8m deep to allow for wheelchair access

Orientation

Kitchens should be oriented towards natural light sources, such as windows or skylights, to enhance visibility and improve ventilation.

2. Bedroom Layout and Dimensions

Bedrooms are personal sanctuaries that require careful consideration to ensure optimal comfort and privacy. Their layout should allow for easy movement around the bed and sufficient storage spaces.

Ideal Dimensions?

A master bedroom should be at least 18.5m2, allowing for a king-sized bed, nightstands, and a wardrobe. Secondary bedrooms should be at least 11m2.

An accessible bedroom is designed for easy entry, exit, and comfortable living. To make the bedroom accessible;

• Doors should be at least 0.85m wide, and should be spacious enough to accommodate wheelchair turning. Handles should also be placed at an appropriate height for easy one-handed use i.e. between 0.9m to 1.1m above the floor
• There should be ample space between the door, bed, and closets/drawers to allow for easy manoeuvering around the room
• The mattress should be level with the user’s wheelchair cushion to ease the transfer process.?
• Install bed rails, floor-to-ceiling poles or grab bars/handles in areas where the user will require assistance.
• Windows should be placed low to ensure an unobstructed view, with handles positioned at a lower height for easy one-handed use. For visually-impaired persons, colours should be contrasted with the surroundings.
• Flooring should also be completed using slip-resistant materials such as vinyl or rubber.

Orientation

Bedrooms should be oriented away from high-traffic areas to minimize noise. Windows should be strategically placed to maximize natural light and provide adequate ventilation.

3. Staircase Placement and Safety

Staircases are critical structural elements that also contribute to the flow of a home. Proper placement and design are essential for safety and convenience.

Ideal Dimensions

Staircases should have a minimum width of 0.9m to ensure safe passage. The rise (height of each step) should be about 0.15m, and the tread (depth of each step) should be at least 0.3m.

To make them accessible;

• Install additional handrails at optimal heights and ensure they are securely anchored to the wall
• Use slip-resistant materials to prevent slips and falls such as carpet, rubber and texturized tile
• Ensure adequate staircase lighting
• Consider a stair lift for users with significant mobility issues.

Placement

Staircases should be centrally located to provide easy access to all parts of the house and maximum convenience among family members of all ages. If possible, they should be near the main entrance or living areas.

4. Bathroom Design and Layout

Bathrooms must be functional, offering both privacy and ease of use. The layout should allow for sufficient space to move around, with fixtures placed in a logical order.

Ideal Dimensions

A full bathroom (with a shower, toilet, and sink) should be about 5.5m2. A half-bath (toilet and sink) can be as small as 1.4m2 (1.5m by 0.9m).

To make it accessible;

• Use a wall-mounted sink to provide knee space below, and install shrouded pipes to protect the knees of disabled users
• Install paddle-type faucet handles
• Incorporate a low-tile shelf beneath the sink for storage
• Have a tilting mirror that adjusts when standing or seated
• Ensure a clear circular space with a diameter of 1.5m for wheelchair manoeuvering and transferring to the toilet seat, with a minimum of 1.2m. If not possible, install grab bars mounted at a height between 0.85m and 0.95m from the floor
• Flushing mechanisms and toilet paper should be positioned within reach, at a height between 0.5m and 1.2m

Orientation

Bathrooms should be located near bedrooms for convenience. They should also be designed to take advantage of natural ventilation to reduce humidity levels.

5. Living and Dining Areas

These communal spaces should be open and inviting, allowing for both relaxation and social interaction. The layout should promote a seamless flow between the living room, dining area, and kitchen.

Ideal Dimensions

A combined living and dining area should be at least 28m2. Furniture should be arranged to create a natural flow and conversation areas.

To enhance accessibility;

• Internal doors should be at least 0.85m wide, and passageways should be spacious enough to accommodate wheelchair turning?
• Flooring should be finished with hard, slip-resistant surfaces?
• Transition points between different surfaces should be level
• Entry locks and door handles should be placed at appropriate heights and designed for effortless one-handed use
• Light switches should be installed at convenient heights and in clear view?
• Windows should be positioned low to provide an unobstructed view, with handles placed at a low height for easy one-handed operation
• Wall sconces or low-mounted lighting are recommended to facilitate easy bulb replacement

Orientation

These areas should ideally be oriented towards outdoor spaces, such as patios or balconies, to enhance natural light and offer a connection to the outdoors.

Effective space planning is essential for creating a functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing home. By carefully considering the dimensions, layout, and orientation of key areas such as kitchens, bedrooms, staircases, bathrooms, and living areas, you can optimize the use of space and improve the overall living experience of a home, making it accessible for all. Whether designing a new space or renovating an existing one, prioritizing space planning in interior design will ensure a more harmonious and efficient living environment.