Less things, better things.
The “BIG SMALL” initiative is about doing more with less. Guided by a philosophy of “less things, better things”, our goal is to continually refine expertise in creating sustainable, enjoyable, cost effective built environments. Ultimately, operational energy use data should accompany construction details and cost factors to enable fair and transparent economic evaluation of systems, providing current data to answer questions of first cost verses long term cost, services usage, and like questions.
When space is small…
- Everything goes in its place, because that’s the only space it can go.
- ‘Outer’ space becomes an important partner with ‘inner’ space.
- Above and below places are equipped with shelves, cabinets or cavities.
- Outer space storage contains inner space clutter.
- Angular solutions increase density of use, especially in corners.
- Furniture build-ins, especially desk/bed/closet built-ins, double functional space.
- Built-in corner seating fits and functions well for tight kitchens.
- Covered patios and porches serve as 3 season rooms, so add plenty of electricity!
- Task lighting adds function and definition to space, as do cove, accent and yard lights.
- Dirt is an enemy. Plan to take shoes and coats off, and keep the broom handy.
- Views are wider when sitting right next to the window.
- Closet size requires something to go before adding anything new.
- North facing skylights add headroom and views without the sun’s glare.
- Desk surrounds swiveling chair. Outlets abound, and computer/stereo functions centralized!
- Stereo components and speakers bring gladness and joy to all spaces.
- Hot water in copper pipe pre-heats towels on its way to the shower, using escutcheons.
- Create chimney affect airflow using screen doors and operable sleeping loft windows.
- Hardscape extensions are coveted, and should be well-lite with watered surrounds.
- Clear counter space is rare as hens’ teeth; provide drawers, shelves and cubbies.
- ‘Storage’ and/or ‘Uninhabitable Space’ are good and valued code names.
Fair economic evaluation shows higher cost per square foot. Because, small spaces tend toward better things.
