Sarah Susanka's Not-So-Big Ideas for Log Homes |
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Sarah Susanka's Not-So-Big Ideas for Log Homes
When designing an open plan, architect and author Sarah Susanka focuses on the interior view.
"The place where we spend most of our time these days is the main living space, which usually includes the family room and kitchen, so this area needs a lot of design attention," says architect and best-selling author Sarah Susanka (of The Not So Big House fame). "I usually suggest that people pour a little more of their budget into this area of the home—not necessarily to make it larger, but simply to make it quite functional and comfortable."
So how does this noted architect make open floorplans flow seamlessly? In many cases, she doesn't.
"In a way it's not about making the rooms flow seamlessly, but about making subtle distinctions that distinguish one space from the next," says Sarah. She feels this is particularly important in log and timber frame homes, which can end up being "one volume" with little variety.
Her advice? "I suggest varying the ceiling height—perhaps a lower ceiling in the kitchen—to give that room its own identity. You can still see very clearly from one room to the next, but giving each space its own personality makes the whole area feel much more cozy."
To go one step farther, Sarah says consider the interior view. "Take each space where you know you're going to hang out and ask yourself, 'What am I going to be looking at when I spend time here?' Composition is really critical to design—and it doesn't happen by accident. Treat each of those views as though you were painting a tableau."More: Other Log Home Design books
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Subscribe You may call us if you prefer not to order online: 800-234-8496 If you are not in the continental U.S. please call 386-447-2398 (International).
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By Christine Lamb on Aug 21, 2008
I've seen this picture before (Susanka) - do you have the plan for the whole house?
By Mark Nusskern on Aug 21, 2008
I would sure like to see more small logs projects, 2000 sf or less. Smaller than the mansion in the monthly magazines.
Thanks
By keith ojala on Aug 21, 2008
When we designed our home, we filled in a specification sheet for each room for reference when we started fitting the rooms together. Listed were: who used the room, what time of day, for what, electrical, plumbing, video and phone/computer requirements. Also, what views were required, sunlight needs, lighting fixtures/sockets, and multi-use potential. Now, in our mid-70's it is all paying off.