Closets
Each bedroom must have a closet,
Figure 7-12. The FHA recommends a minimum
of four linear feet of rod space in a closet for a
man and six feet for a woman. The minimum
depth of a clothes closet is 24″. If space is avail-
able, a 30″ depth is desirable. When possible,
closets should be located along interior walls.
This provides noise insulation between rooms
and does not reduce exterior wall space. A
bedroom normally has no more than two exte-
rior walls. The use of one for closets will
reduce the chance of cross ventilation through
windows. In addition, closets should be
located near the entrance of the room for easy
access.
Access to the closet should receive serious
consideration. Closets with full front openings
are more accessible. A variety of doors may be
selected: sliding, bifold, accordion, or flush.
The usual height of a door is 6′-8″, but most
doors are also available in 8′-0″ heights. Using
doors that provide easy accessibility yet
require little space is desirable. Good lighting
is also a necessity. Fixtures may be placed
inside the closet.
Bifold, accordion, or sliding doors gener-
ally allow for partial entry by wheelchair
users. To be accessible to the disabled, clothing
rods should be located 40″ to 48″ from the
floor. Adjustable shelves provide greater
accessibility and may be placed at various
heights from 18″ to 45″ above the floor. The
depth of shelves should not exceed 16″.
Clothes hooks should not be more than 40″
from the floor.
Doors and Windows
Windows and doors are important bedroom
features. An ideal bedroom will have windows
on two walls. Window location and spacing is
important. They should be located so that a
draft will not blow across the bed. If the
Chapter 7 Room Planning—Sleeping Area and Bath Facilities
135
SINGLE
BED
SINGLE
BED
3-0 1-6 3-0
3-0
3-0
DOUBLE BED CHEST
DRESSER
5-6
2-0
4-6
Figure 7-11. Examples of minimum space clearances for bedroom furniture.
Figure 7-12. A neat closet arrangement provides a
place for each item as well as easy access.
(Schulte Corporation)