Open Floor Plan Living in Philadelphia: Considerations and Code Requirements
Open floor plans are all the rage these days, and for good reason. Throughout Philadelphia you can find relatively small houses, especially in the highly sought communities in the heart of the city. Open floor plans can maximize your space and foster a sense of connectedness in your home. However, before you embark on knocking down walls to achieve your dream open layout, there are some practical considerations and code requirements to navigate.
Open floor plans offer a several solutions to small homes in Philadelphia:
Maximizing Natural Light: By removing walls, you allow sunlight to penetrate deeper into your home, brightening up previously dim spaces. This is a major advantage in Philly's row houses, which typically have limited windows on one side.
Exploiting the Illusion of Space: Open layouts create a feeling of airiness, making even a smaller footprint feel expansive.
Connecting with Your Crew: Open floor plans encourage interaction and a sense of community within your household.
Modern Appeal: Open layouts are undeniably stylish and in line with current design trends.
Open Floor Plans: Not Always Smooth Sailing
While open floor plans offer undeniable benefits, they also come with some challenges to consider:
Defining Your Space: With no walls to separate areas, creating designated zones within the open floor plan requires creativity. Furniture placement, rugs, and strategic dividers can help define different sections.
Storage Solutions: Open layouts can leave limited space for traditional storage solutions. Creative built-ins or strategically placed furniture with storage capabilities can address this challenge.
Lack of Privacy: If you have a noisy family or a boisterous set of roomates you may struggle to find a quiet spot to peel off and enjoy some relaxation other than closing away in a bedroom. Intentional flow and well insulated walls can help reduce the noise.
Navigating the Maze of Philadelphia Codes
Before wielding a sledgehammer, it's crucial to understand the city's building code. Consulting with a licensed design professional like Jane Draws Plans is your best bet to ensure your open floor plan dreams comply with regulations. Here are some key code considerations:
Structural Integrity: Knocking down walls, especially load-bearing ones, might require additional support beams. A professional can assess your specific situation and design a safe and compliant open space.
Fire Safety First: Open layouts need to adhere to fire safety regulations regarding fire separations and egress points. A qualified professional will ensure your open floor plan prioritizes safety.
Plumbing and Electrical Adjustments: Removing walls might necessitate adjustments to plumbing and electrical lines. Experienced professionals can handle these modifications while maintaining functionality.
Mechanical Adjustments: Heating and air conditioning units are rated for different areas and ductwork is designed for the spaces it was installed in. Adjustments may need to be made to ensure a good flow.
Ready to Embrace Open Floor Plan Living in Philadelphia?
Contact Jane Draws Plans today for a consultation. We'll guide you through the design and permitting process, helping you achieve your dream open floor plan while adhering to Philadelphia's code requirements. Let's create a bright, beautiful, and code-compliant space for you and your loved ones to enjoy!
