Arranging Space

When planning the use of space ask the following questions:

• What is the room used for?

• What items of furniture go together?

• Where are the traffic patterns?

As you plan furniture arrangement keep in mind:

• Don’t overcrowd a room

• Attempt to balance the room (use formal balance on at least one wall)

• Create a focal point

• Consider the views from one part of the home to another, as well as the outdoors

Also Consider

• The orientation of a room might determine its arrangement

• Use your imagination

• Arrange the seating so that people can talk without having to raise their voices

• Provide a convenient surface for reading materials or refreshments near the seating

Standard Clearance Spaces

• Living room/Dining Room

• Minor traffic pathway 1 ½ ft-4 feet

• Major traffic pathway 4 to 6 feet

• Space between coffee table and chair 1 to 1 ½ feet

• Leg room in front of chair 1 ½ to 2 ½ feet

• Space around table and occupied chair 2 feet

Standard Clearance Spaces

• Conversational Grouping

• Sofa, two end tables, two chairs 6 ½ by 14 feet

Standard Clearance Spaces

• Kitchen

• Space in front of cabinets 2 to 6 feet

• Space between appliances 4 to 7 feet

Standard Clearance Spaces

• Bedroom

• Space around bed 1 ½ to 3 feet

• Space to pull out dresser drawers 3 feet

Standard Clearance Spaces

• Bathroom

• Space in front of toilet 1 ½ to 2 feet

• Space between bathtub and opposite wall 2 ½ feet