After considering the brief and the size and shape of the house as well as the position of the entrance we have concluded that the best option is to divide the social areas of the house in two parts: The living room and an integrated kitchen-dinning room. This way, they can occupy two large spaces avoiding the need for corridors and additional subdivision of the space. The spaces feel more spacious this way.
The kitchen and dining room are in the space adjacent to the balcony, which is convenient as meals can also take place outdoors and the space is ample enough for receiving guests and family. We have provided two optional plans for the apartment and the difference is on how the kitchen-dinning room can be organised. In both cases there is a fireplace with enough space to sit down by the fire. Different sizes of dining tables can be accommodated. A large family gathering is feasible in this ample space.
The living room occupies the other large space and is largely open with just a dividing piece of furniture helping to configure the space and provide a place for the TV. The entrance is through the porch as described in the brief. We don't think the main entrance should be through the stair on the rear, it's not a good way to access the apartment as it is too small and not very elegant.
Three bedrooms and two bathrooms occupy the rest of the space. We think it is important that the children rooms are of a good size and have good wardrobes, there is always need for storage space and having tiny rooms with very small wardrobes will not be good in the long term. We have provided some variations as to how the rooms can be furnished now and in the future.
The main bedroom is of a good size as well, and offers flexibility to accommodate beds of any size. Although a walk-in is provided, additional storage space can be accommodated. The bathroom is spacious and allow to have to basins on a large comfortable top.
We think the proposed plan is very balanced in terms of the use of the space. The use of long corridors has been avoided which means no space is wasted and there are no awkward corners so every space is easy to furnish and use.
