Collective Living: Understand Multi-Unit Residential Design for Emerging Adults

Haley Combs

Kansas State University

Master of Interior Architecture

Design Thesis 2024

COLLECTIVE LIVING:

Understanding

Multi-Unit Residential Design for Emerging Adults

Professor | Kutay Guler - Art.D, NCIDQ, IDEC

Professional Advisor: Kuebler Perry - NCIDQ

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

As I reach the end of my academic career I would like to extend my gratitude to all those who have supported me and helped to shape me along the way. From the beginning I have been surrounded by family, friends and teachers who have allowed me to grow and flourish both personally and academically.

I am deeply grateful to my classmates, whose unwavering support and companionship made every challenge more manageable and every success more meaningful. Their diverse perspectives, range of skill sets, and shared experiences enriched my learning journey in countless ways.

I owe a debt of gratitude to Professor Kutay Guler for his exceptional mentorship, insightful guidance, and unwavering support throughout my academic endeavors. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in shaping my growth and understanding. Throughout the process of this project, he provided feedback and insights which helped me to gain confidence in my own abilities, as well as bring life to my ideas.

I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to Kuebler Perry, my professional advisor, who shared his time, advice, encouragement, and wisdom. His guidance and mentorship has not only enriched my academic experience but also prepared me for the professional world ahead.

Finally, my deepest thanks go to my parents and family for their unwavering love, encouragement, and sacrifices. I am blessed to have had their support at every stage and phase of life. In every endeavour I pursue, they have gifted me their time, resources and abundance of faith. Their belief in me has been my greatest strength, and I am endlessly grateful for their continuous love and support, as I move into the next adventure.

Thank you! :)

1.1 Justification

1.2 Goals & Objectives Introduction

Background

2.1 Literature Review

2.2 Precedent Studies

2.3 Site Analysis

Schematic Design

3.1 Programming & Users

3.2 Concept Development

3.3 Parti & Design Language

3.4 Zoning

Final Design

4.1 Site & Communal Floor 4.2 Residential Floors 4.2

Introduction

1.1 Justification

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Goals & Objectives

Motivated by my personal experiences and education, I sought to deepen my understanding of human development and how our environments shape us overtime. The profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted me to explore the significant changes in community engagement and interpersonal relationships experienced by people worldwide, leaving many without their usual support systems. Drawing from recent human development research, my focus shifted towards understanding the specific effects on emerging adults. Research and testimonies on how this physical and social distancing has negatively impacted mental health and overall well-being, as well as an investigation into the standards and conditions of students and young professionals, developed into a desire to find and create a supportive residential community atmosphere to meet their unmet needs in a modern society.

Ultimately, my objective for this thesis project is to establish a foundation for my educational and professional pursuits, representing my desire to address unmet needs and fostering inclusive atmospheres which promote a sense of community and collective support. As the culmination of my experiences throughout this Master’s program, I hope to highlight the full extent of my capabilities within interior architecture, and showcase my passion for design on all scales.

Justification

Research Question How can the design of multi-unit residencies support the social, emotional, and mental well-being of emerging adults while combating stress and fostering community?

In recent years, there has been an addition to the known and defined stages of human development, a stage called emerging adulthood, which occurs between the ages of 18-29. This new stage has arisen as a result of social and cultural pressures in post industrialized societies and is marked by a prolonged transition into adulthood (Arnet, 1998). There is evidence to suggest that a massive cultural and reproductive change is taking place, meaning that the new social and cultural demands of adult life led to a more complex evolution into full adulthood (Wood, 2018).

The study of this societal and developmental change has led researchers to examine what is particularly different and difficult about this stage of life. Though emerging adulthood is a time of high hopes and independence, much research suggests “that it is also a uniquely stressful part of the lifespan” (Stone et al., 2010). Studies have shown that feelings of isolation often peak during emerging adulthood, as young adults are navigating the stresses and complexities of society, which may not be equipped to address their needs (Spear, 2000).

Because these young adults are in a state of instability and constant change, there is a need to develop systems of support, and analyze where our current systems are lacking. During this stage of development, the brain is not fully matured, leading to a lack in complex cognitive and decision-making skills. This vulnerability has been examined, showing that their immaturity is reflected in a delay in social and emotional development, and may also impede goals in education, relationships, and independence in health and healthcare management.

For many emerging adults, financial insecurity and lack of social support can become overwhelming, in fact “three-quarters of lifetime cases of mental, emotional and behavioral disorders begin by age 24” (Wood, 2018). Overall, there is evidence that this new and uniquely complex stage in development necessitates innovative solutions and services to address the needs of emerging adults and support them through the transition into adulthood.

During this stage of life, many young adults are moving through 1.1

higher education and transitioning into the professional world. This is also the period where a majority of people are moving out of the parental home, in fact about 80% of higher education students choose to live away from their parents during their first year of academia (HEFCE, 2009). By their final year of school, about 35% of students choose to live in shared housing accommodations with friends, and the other 40% of students either live alone or as a couple (Robinson, 2015).

Because of the need to move for educational or professional reasons, this time period can be particularly challenging for young adults to navigate without support, and many may still choose to live with their parents throughout this period for many reasons. Many factors such as financial hardships, weak social welfare, and poor housing market conditions are all contributing factors to emerging adults delaying leaving home (Arnet, 2015). In fact, about two-thirds of emerging who live with their parents, choose to do so because they cannot afford to move out, due to a combination of economic hardships and academic commitments (Robinson, 2015).

Although there can be many benefits to a longer stay in the familial home, there is evidence to suggest that a trend towards delayed home

leaving may have significant consequences. In fact, those who chose to stay with parents into their 30’s are less likely to get married and have children, which has shown in a drop in birth rates seen in many countries, and threatens their social security systems (Arnet, 2015). It is therefore important to consider how to support emerging adults through this transition, while still accounting for their peak in feelings of isolation and need for socialization.

In recent years, we have seen how sensitive this window of development is through the consequences of physical and social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, after which studies showed that a majority of emerging adults have experienced negative relationship changes, including less overall contact, increased tension, and feelings of disconnection, which could have long-term effects (Dotson, 2022). Following the pandemic and its ramifications, it is clear that not only do emerging adults need assistance in navigating the financial changes of this period, but also in support when leaving the home and finding means of socialization.

Knowing that there is a need for socialization and support may mean that living with family is a good option for emerging adults, although research also suggests that

alternative shared living may be just as beneficial. Studies showed that friendships serve a unique role in buffering the challenges of stress on social well-being, and in fact support from friends may be more beneficial than that from parents and family, or even a romantic partner (Lee, 2016). Additionally, more recent research has suggested that positive impacts of companionship and mutual support may be even more valued by emerging adults than economic necessities (Clark, 2018).

Because we see that it is important for these young adults to not only move away from the parental home, but also to have social stability and support from friends, shared living accommodations may be able to successfully provide a secure environment. As stated before, emerging adulthood is a vulnerable period of development, in which the impact of social isolation, loneliness, and lack of social support puts them at risk for cardiovascular and mental health issues (Carrere, 2020).

In cases of cohousing and shared living, residents experienced increased social support, a sense of community, and a higher level of physical, emotional, and economic stability (Markle, 2015; Carrere, 2020). Clearly there is a link between positive health and well-being outcomes and communal or shared

living, but there are very few of applications in residences primarily directed towards emerging adults and their specific needs.

In addition to the physical and mental impacts, communal living can increase social and practical skills, a sense of self-reliance, and learning to live both independently and collectively (Mause, 2008). Indoor environmental conditions have proven to affect residents’ physical health (Andargie, 2019), and if designed with careful consideration, may be able to provide amenities and social support which is needed for young adults during this time. Which leads me to my research question: How can the design of multi-unit residencies support the social, emotional, and mental well-being of emerging adults while combating stress and fostering community?

Goals & Objectives

In order to further the scope of this research and design, five goals which help to break down the requirements of the projects and needs of the users which the design hopes to address. As we navigate the evolving landscape of architecture and interior design, the pursuit of a holistic design approach hopes to create spaces that not only captivate aesthetically but also contribute to the overall wellbeing of occupants. Integral to this pursuit is a commitment to fostering a sense of community, ensuring individual

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privacy, promoting health and wellness, optimizing affordability, and providing easy access to essential amenities. This design approach aims to go beyond conventional standards, creating an environment which reflects the aspirations and lifestyles of its inhabitants. These goals serve as an introduction to the following research, analysis, and design process, which will assist in shaping functional and enriching spaces which speak to the thoughtful interaction between the human experience and built environment.

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Health & Wellbeing

Support and nourish the mental and physical well-being of emerging adults through meaningful and research-based design choices.

• Create a comfortable atmosphere through materiality and furniture selections which allow residents to feel at home.

• Provide ample access to natural light in order to create views and connections to the surrounding environment.

• Design with consideration of acoustics and environmental stimulation to allow for individual comfort of residents.

• Integrate biophilic elements in shared spaces to reduce stress and engage residents.

Community & Support

Provide a series of spaces which create a sense of place and help to promote a sense of community and belonging for residents.

• Create opportunities for casual socialization through furniture and pathways to increase resident engagement.

• Include centralized shared spaces to provide access for all residents and encourage interaction.

• Designate zones of activity through materiality, color and wayfinding to create user ease and sense of place.

• Provide a network of support through services and spaces which encourages collaboration and asking for help.

Access to Amenities 3 4

Affordability

Integrate strategies which will lower overall costs and help decrease the emotional and mental toll of financial challenges during emerging adulthood. Produce shared amenities and spaces to support both individual success and collective living for emerging adults.

• Provide areas for group activities and games to encourage socialization and allow for relaxation.

• Integrate centralized laundry space to reduce footprint of individual spaces and lower residents’ monthly bills.

• Create a shared kitchen and eating space to promote healthy habits and create a supportive atmosphere.

• Designate areas for shared working and lounge spaces for all residents to decrease feelings of isolation.

• Utilize adaptive reuse strategies to restore and design an existing building to increase cost efficiency.

• Use locally sourced selections and repurpose existing building materials to reduce the project’s overall cost.

• Create centralized common spaces and shared amenities to reduce individual costs and increase building energy efficiency.

• Integrate unit options to accommodate multiple residents in order to share the financial load.

Privacy & Security 5

Maintain individual privacy and security of personal spaces to promote self-advocacy and provide a feeling of safety for residents.

• Create varying levels of separation and social interaction to allow user choice and individual comfort.

• Provide physical, visual, and auditory barriers between individual spaces to ensure safety and independence.

• Maintain security and privacy through locked entries and buffer zones between public and private spaces.

• Integrate spaces of refuge to allow residents to maintain individuality and build self-reliance while living collectively.

Background

2.1 Literature Review

2.2 Precedent Studies

2.3 Site Analysis

Research conducted to examine the history and characteristics of emerging adulthood as a developmental period, as well as an inquiry into the current living conditions of these young adults was done in order to better understand their unique needs. The following literature and precedent analysis contribute to a better understanding of the relevance, implications, and application of my thesis project. In addition, a specific site was selected and consequently analyzed to gain insight into the developing context of the project.

Literature Review

Introduction

Emerging Adulthood

Background and History

Neurological Development

Risk Factors and Challenges

Post-COVID Conditions

Living Conditions of Emerging Adults

Transitioning from Parental Home

Shared Housing Conditions

Limitations of Shared Living

Shared Housing Solutions

Existing Solutions

Common Spaces and Shared

Amenities

Health and Well-being Impacts

Environmental Design

Considerations

Conclusion

In recent years, the transition from adolescence into adulthood has become increasingly long and complex due to many social and cultural changes taking place globally (Arnett, 1998). This new trend has been stimulated by increasing housing prices, longer time spent in higher education, and more complex transitions into the professional work force, and has led researchers to define emerging adulthood (EA) as a unique life stage (Wood et al., 2018).

As these young adults move into more independent roles and responsibilities, feelings of anxiety, depression, and instability are common, characterizing EA as a particularly vulnerable stage of development. Many emerging adults report issues in finding suitable and affordable housing, paying for rent and education, as well as feelings of loneliness and isolation, which were heightened during and after the COVID-19 pandemic (Dotson, 2022).

Due to the unique and instable nature of this period, it is clear that there is a need to foster social and financial support among students and young professionals. Individuals who are experiencing this transition often go through physical relocations for school or work, reflecting a need Introduction

for diverse housing typologies which offer means of shared living (Robinson, 2015). Research has suggested that the design of shared living accommodations may provide benefits such as economic and emotional support, sense of community, and improved physical and mental wellbeing (Carrere et al., 2020; Clark et al., 2018).

The following section of this review seeks to provide an understanding of emerging adulthood as a developmental stage, the current living conditions of the EA population, as well as the possible design solutions which can promote positive experiences. This leads to the research question: How can the design of multi-unit residencies support the social, emotional, and mental wellbeing of emerging adults while combatting stress and fostering community?

I. Emerging Adulthood

Background, History & Statistics

Although the stages of human development have been researched and studied for many generations, there has been a recent addition to the previously defined life stages accepted by scientific and scholarly communities. Emerging Adulthood (EA), first proposed by Jeffrey Arnett in his article “Emerging Adulthood: A Theory of Development from the Late Teens Through the Twenties” in American Psychologist, has since become a widely known and discussed by professionals across many disciplines, including anthropologists, educators, philosophers, journalists, lawmakers, and health specialists (Trible, 2015). In recent years, the theory and study have gained attention and credibility, with the formation of the Society for the Study of Emerging Adulthood, and the Journal of Emerging Adulthood which has been in publication since March 2013.

This stage of development has arisen due to social and cultural shifts most present in industrialized and post-industrialized societies, such as increased years spent on education, delays in marriage, as well as movements towards gender equality and social freedom (Arnett, 1998). Because of these changes, the transition into adulthood becomes more gradual (Arnett, 2005), and new social and cultural demands of adult life require a more complex introduction into full adulthood (Wood et al, 2018). Due to the societal changes, it is necessary to analyze

how this stage of development differs from other age groups, and what specific challenges they may face. Arnett (2000, 2004) proposed that this period of life is experienced roughly between the ages of 18-25, and is a distinct time when individuals consider themselves too old to be treated as adolescents, but not yet full adults (Reifman, 2007).

In his proposal, Arnett outlines five features unique to emerging adulthood, based on a wide set of qualitative date from structured interviews conducted in the 1990’s: 300 interviews with Americans aged 18-29, from a variety of socioeconomic, educational, and ethnic backgrounds (Arnett, 2015). Building on these initial studies, Arnett’s research has more recently included data from 3 national surveys, over 1,000 persons each: The Clark University Poll of Emerging Adults (2012), The Clark University Poll of Parents of Emerging Adults (2013), and the Clark University Poll of Established Adults (2014) (Trible, 2015). Based on these studies and the continuing research in the field, emerging adulthood has become its own unique and particularly interesting phase of development. These five distinct characteristics of EA are: the age of identity explorations, the age of instability, the self-focused age, the age of feeling in-between, and the age of possibilities (Arnett, 2004).

Emerging adults at the beginning of this stage, 17-18 years of age, are typically dependent, living with their parents, exploring the development of romantic relationships, and attending high school (Wood et al.,

2018). Arnett first characterizes this period as the age of feeling in-between, as most have “left the dependency of childhood and adolescence, and hav[e] not yet entered the enduring responsibilities that are normative in adulthood” (Arnett, 2000, p.469). Being the age of possibilities, this period is often a very optimistic time (Reifman, 2007), as it offers the most opportunities for exploration in areas of love, work, and worldviews (Arnett, 2000). The possibility for independent selfexploration also lends this period to being characterized as the age of identity explorations and the self-focused age, as they given more freedom and responsibility to develop knowledge, skills, and selfunderstanding needed for their adult life (Arnett, 2004).

Many large changes which occur during this stage of development present great opportunities but may lead them to experience the more

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negative effects of this transition into full adulthood. Emerging adults may at times become overwhelmed by the number of choices available to them, and the number of decisions one must make (Robbins & Wilner, 2001). As change itself can become unsettling, many may feel they lack the confidence or ability to succeed, further characterizing this stage as the age of instability (Reifman, 2007). Although this life stage has been found to be consistent across individuals and cultures, the path each takes is dependent on personal, family, and social resources, as well as their dynamic interaction with their environments and support they receive (Wood et al. 2018). Due to the unique and instable nature of this developmental period, further research and investigation is needed to fully understand their conditions and how systems can help to support them.

figure

Neurological Development

By defining EA as its own unique stage of development, research has seen an expansion of studies that seek to further explain the social, cognitive, and psychological changes which take place. Research has shown that the brain continues to develop and mature well into the late 20s, which further justifies characterizing EA as a distinct developmental period (Spear, 2000). In fact, more recent neuroscience findings indicate that areas of the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex, continues to mature even into the late 30s, supporting the development of more complex cognitive processes and decisionmaking skills (Luciana et al. 2005).

This ability to process more complex information is critical to the success of emerging adults in social-emotional situations. Especially in industrialized societies, as individuals moving out of adolescence and into the third decade of life, their brains are hard at work creating neural systems which consolidate skills and information to support new adult roles and help them to navigate the transitions from dependency to self-reliance (Arnett, 1998).

Through various forms of study, such as postmortem examinations and non-human studies, researchers have found many areas of the brain which are undergoing intense changes. As stated earlier, during EA, the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is in the process of maturing, which encourages better self-regulation and future-oriented decision making, as well as a higher sensitivity to negative consequences (Taber-Thomas & Perez-Edgar, 2015). This development within the PFC creates a higher connectivity with the limbic system, supporting increasing independence and responsibility, while still receiving support from parents or guardians (Arnett, 2016). During this phase of development, emerging adults are experiencing a re-structuring of their brain, which helps us to understand the feelings of instability they commonly experience. Neurological development during EA ultimately results in the development of sophisticated cognitive functions, executive control (Luciana et al. 2005), and integration of emotional information into cognitive processing (Arnett, 2016).

The development of new cognitve cognitive functions aids in emerging adult’ transition to independence,

figure 2.12

granting them more autonomy and confidence. As these new capacities emerge, individuals are more easily able to solve problems, filter input, compromise, as well as become more capable of reflecting on their influence on the environment and internal state, leading to more meaningful social interaction and relationships (Wood et al. 2018). In addition to the development occurring in the frontolimbic systems, studies have also shown that an increase of white matter in this system may enable an individual to tolerate and regulate anxiety and fear, supporting higher socialemotional functioning (Cunningham et al., 2002) more easily. There is evidence which suggests that culture and values play a key role in EA brain development, encouraging researchers to further investigate

environmental impacts (Arnett, 2016). It is clear that the neurological development which takes places during this stage of development is instrumental to the physical, emotional, social well-being of emerging adults, as it prepares equips them to navigate relationships, careers, responsibilities, and social institutions.

Risk Factors & Challenges

Isolation & Loneliness:

As we have established, EA is a stage of life development in which individuals are encountering a substantial amount of change and assuming new responsibilities and freedoms, which is optimistic, but also at times overwhelming. Researchers have noted that feelings of isolation, directly related to substance abuse,

“Neurodevelopment continues throughout EA in support of the prolonged emergence of adult functions and roles.”

- Arnett, 2016

often peak during this period, as these young adults shoulder the stress of navigating new societal and social structures, which may not be equipped to meet their needs, all while their brains have yet to reach full maturation (Spear, 2000).

Isolation and feelings of loneliness are not unique to EA, but according to recent information, late adolescence and emerging adulthood are two development stages in which these feelings are most prevalent (Qualter et al., 2015).

At the beginning of EA, individuals are typically living within a family or parental home, but as they move away for higher education or career opportunities, their established social and emotional support systems and relationships evolve. Moving away from one’s hometown may cause feelings of unease as there is a

difference between desired and achieved social contact with family and friends (Lee & Goldstein, 2016). During this vulnerable period of change, developing close friendships and intimate relationships may be essential in order to ease the feelings of loneliness (Arnett, 2015), in fact support from friends may be more effective than family support in reducing psychological distress (Segrin, 2003).

Due to typical life transitions which occur during EA, it is clear that a network of social and emotional support is necessary in order to regulate stress and reduce isolation during this period. In this way, friends and/or initiate partner support begins to overtake the roles of family support (Tanner, 2011). Though romantic and platonic relationships become more important and

figure 2.13

common at this time (Arnett, 2015), parental and family support remain critical in ensuring positive adjustments and well-being (Lee et al., 2015). Because emerging adults are at high risk for added levels of discomfort and stress due to isolation and lack of social support, these individuals are encouraged to invest in developing quality relationships, and public health efforts may wish to develop programs which educate and increase service utilization (Catalano, 2004).

Mental Health:

Due to the many pivotal life changes and developmental processes which occur during EA, it is reasonable to assume that they may be at risk of experiencing psychological distress. Previously, this stage of life development has not received significant attention in terms of age specific mental health and support services, but it is clear that the transition to adulthood has drastically changed, becoming more unpredictable and unstable than in past generations (Tanner, 2014). The challenges these individuals experience at this time, such as transitioning to living apart from parents, procuring higher education or training, moving into the professional workforce, and finding a long-term partner are unique to this developmental stage, but have been rarely recognized by mental health services in the past (Arnett et al., 2014). As societal systems continue to evolve, it is important to recognize how these individuals may require additional support.

There is an abundance of research and data which shows an increase

in risk and occurring mental health issues which develop during this sensitive time. During this stage of development, it may be difficult to distinguish between individuals who are experiencing average difficultieswhich will eventually be resolved, and those whose struggles may continue into their later adult lives (Arnett et al., 2014). In the United States, median ages for onset anxiety disorders, substance use, and mood disorders all fall within EA (Kessler & Wang, 2008), and in fact three-quarters of cases of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders begin by the age 24 (Wood et al., 2018). More recent research has shown that the rates of anxiety and depression are increasing, specifically among college students, and observes a possible link between

figure 2.14

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social-emotional skills and mental health outcomes (Moeller & Seebuus, 2019). Due to the nature of this stage of development, and the challenges emerging adults face, more that 40% of these individuals meet the criteria for at least one psychiatric disorder in a 12-month period (Kessler et al., 2015). Clearly EA is a period of mental and emotional vulnerability in which these individuals may require additional outside support.

As we see an increased need for support systems and mental health protective measures for emerging

adults, researchers are searching for ways to accommodate their unmet needs. Data from a national survey of 1029 young adults aged 18-29 years old showed that 56% agreed with the statement, “I often feel anxious”, and 32% agreed with the statement, “I often feel depressed” (Arnett & Schwab, 2012). Depressive symptoms have been shown to be the highest in the early twenties, closely related to the lowest perceptions of social support during the same time period (Arnett et al., 2014)

In many industrialized countries, unemployment during EA is closely associated with increased risk of depression, as well as feelings of anxiety and frustration, especially for those who do not have strong parental or familial support (Dooley et al., 2000; Axelsson & Ejlertsson, 2002). Developing systems which seek to support and understand the challenges emerging adults face has the potential to reduce physical health and behavioral risks associated with mental health issues (Mason et al., 2013), as well as reduce the impact of personal and social burdens, such as employment instability and fluctuating living standards (Gibb et al., 2010). Through the analyzation of this information, it is reasonable to assume that emerging adults are likely to need additional services which ease the stress and impact of major life transitions.

Financial Instability:

Emerging adulthood is a time of great change, which has been shown to at times be overwhelming and cause feelings of stress or unease. The pressures of industrialized societies may cause individuals to divert from

typical paths. For example, 40% of emerging adults do not pursue higher education, 33% remain unmarried, and only a minority of these individuals secure full time employment, limiting their future economic opportunities (Wood et al., 2018; U.S. Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 2006). In recent years, young adults are faced with entering a market which is characterized by rising economic inequality, as well as a time where individuals are obtaining less education than their parents (Hout & Janus, 2011). Despite this information, a majority of emerging adults enroll in secondary education, but many may drop out or interrupt the pursuit of a degree due to educational financial debts, and rising cost of tuition and housing (Dwyer, Hodson & McCloud, 2013).

Because emerging adults are transitioning from a parental home, their financial standing is typically closely tied to that of their family. These young adults are experiencing an increase in societal and personal responsibilities, and at times may be inclined or compelled to contribute to their family’s financial well-being, preventing them from focusing on education and personal endeavors (Sy & Romero, 2008). In addition to familial pressures, there is evidence to suggest that a lack of financial literacy may contribute to stopping out rates and other difficulties they encounter (Shim et al., 2010). Overall, the financial difficulties which are apparent during this developmental period reflect a need for both economic and emotional support to ease the transition into complete independence.

“Their apparent immaturity reflects a delay in social and emotional development and undermines progress toward goals in education, relationships, independence in health, and health-care management.”

- Wood, 2018

Post-COVID Conditions

Not only has the transition into adulthood drastically changed in the last 50 years, but emerging adults have also more recently had to experience new challenges and disruptions to their transition, by the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay-athome orders, public and educational facilities’ closure, and social distancing instituted by public health systems, all aimed to reduce the spread of the virus, but in doing so also increased the risk of loneliness and isolation in the public (Preetz et al., 2021; Ye et al., 2020). Studies all around the world reported higher levels of depression and anxiety, lower levels of life satisfaction, and increasing

rates of economic and financial uncertainty (Cao et al., 2020; Daly et al., 2020). During this time, physical health effects due to COVID-19 were much less severe in emerging adults than older adults, but studies show that emerging adults experienced amore dramatic increase in levels of depression and anxiety than any other age group (Daly et al., 2020; Pierce et al., 2020). Because of the already established instability during EA, researchers have conducted further study into the long-term impacts and ramifications of COVID-19 on emerging adults.

In addition to the individual effects of the global pandemic, most of the population also experienced dramatic shifts in their various relationships. In a study done on emerging adults, 69% of participants reported relationship changes, of which most described negative changes such as less contact, feeling disconnected, and increased tension due to physical distancing, which may have long term ramifications for their relationships well into their later lives (Dotson et al., 2022). The COVID-19 pandemic significantly restricted mobility, in-person contact, and time spent with family, peers, and partners, decreasing feelings of personal support, which increased levels of loneliness, depression, and anxiety (Elmer et al., 2020). Emerging adults, and especially college students experienced dramatic changes in their social networks due to campus closures, virtualteaching and learning methods were integrated, but were not sufficient to compensate for the lack of in-person interaction and support (Patterson et al., 2020). Due to EA being a period figure 2.16

of development in which individuals are already at risk of isolation and loneliness, it is important to further understand how the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent social changes may have impacted their transition into adulthood.

Together with the social and emotional changes experienced during the pandemic, there were significant economic and financial challenges which arose due to the closure of services and public systems. In many countries, the COVID-19 pandemic caused an economic recession, causing unemployment rates to rise, labor markets to shrink, and an overall feeling of uncertainty for many individuals (Blustein et al., 2020). Because of this, emerging adults are in strained financial situations due to losing student jobs, internships opportunities, career offers and the inability to complete their degree on time (Doreleyers &

figure 2.17

Knighton, 2020), resulting in fear and uncertainty about their future situation (Elmer et al., 2020; ParksYancy & Cooley, 2022). In addition to the possible personal financial struggles, the pandemic led to many households reporting employment loss as a result, and many expected employment losses in the near future (Ganson et al., 2021). As entering into the labor market is essential to the transition during EA, these stresses and circumstances dictated by the pandemic may have long lasting impacts on their mental health and life satisfaction levels.

Because of the economic crisis which occurred due to the recent pandemic, emerging adults also faced challenges related to housing and personal independence. About 80% of emerging adults consider residential independence to be an important milestone to reaching full adulthood (Sharon, 2016), but due

to the uncertain market conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a high number of young individuals who were forced to return to their parental homes (Patterson et al., 2020). This rollback of independence can be a major disruption to the transition into adulthood and may cause tensions concerning bills and privacy within parent-adult child relationships (Parker, 2012). These challenges not only hinder emerging adults’ confidence and ability to step out into their own, but also produce feelings of uncertainty or lack of control, leading to a decline in physical and mental well-being over time (Caputo, 2020). It is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic has had long-lasting impacts on the transition into adulthood, producing an even higher level of instability and stress, which necessitates the formation of support systems to counteract these influences.

II. Living Conditions of Emerging Adults

Transitioning from the Parental Home

During EA, the transition out of one’s parental home is an important milestone in order to assume new responsibilities and reach a point of autonomy. In recent years, especially since the 1990’s, the average age for leaving home has continued to increase, leading to a greater number of adult children who continue to reside with their parents, and generating speculation and concern from public health officials (Arnett 2000, Cobb-Clark, 2008). Studies from particular countries (notably the European Union, North America, and Australia) suggest that close to 26% of emerging adults aged 18-34 years currently live with their parents (Choroszewicz & Wolf, 2010). Many of these young adults living at home are referred to as “boomerang kids”, move back with their parents in order to explore career opportunities while maintaining a level of familial and financial support (Bold, 2001; Reifman et al., 2007). While there are many personal benefits to leaving home, emerging adults may also undergo a multitude of challenges which may encourage them to delay this transition.

Research has shown that one of the most important factors in the timing of home leaving, is the individual’s home and family situations, including family structure, geographical location, and financial resources (DaVanzo & Goldscheider, 1990). Having the support of parents and their financial resources may

figure 2.18

be helpful in encouraging emerging adults to leave home for college, procure a new home, or enter into romantic relationships (Cobb-Clark, 2008). Although high parental support can be a reason for delayed home leaving, other factors such as financial challenges, poor housing market conditions, as well as increased time and money spent on higher education, can all contribute to this delay as well (Arnett, 2015). In fact, a study conducted in 2013 reported 55% of men and 38% of women aged 20-25 were living with their parents, and two thirds of these individuals do not move out because they cannot afford to do so (Robinson, 2015). Although there can be many benefits for these young adults who choose to remain at home, some may struggle to find a good balance of autonomy and support with their parents.

This task of finding balance largely depends on the parents’ ability to provide warmth and support, as well as respect for their child, in order to prevent conflict within the home (Laursen & Collins, 2009). Some research indicates that emerging adults who do remain in the familial home may feel restricted and treated as a child, possibly leading to negative effects on both the parents’ and child’s well-being (White, 2002). It is clear that a combination of financial stressors, increased education, difficulties entering the job market, and unstable housing markets can all play a part in delayed home leaving for emerging adults, drawing the attention of many researchers and institutions. This ongoing trend may have significant consequences in the long term, as

“Due to the combination of studying for longer, economic difficulties, high rents and house prices, and the personal deferral of economic commitments, more young people live with their parents than ever before….”

- Robinson, 2015

those who remain at home into their 30s are less likely to marry and have children, causing a drop in birthrates which threatens the vitality of social structures in many countries (Arnett, 2015). Due to this trend and its causes, it can be seen that there is a need to provide support for emerging adults, both from parents, and our social structures, in order to encourage residential independence and long-term health and well-being of emerging adults.

Shared Housing Conditions

As we have seen, EA is a particularly unstable time of great change and many pivotal transitions which will have a significant impact on these individuals later in life. Because of the financial difficulty of leaving home for the first time and acquiring an independent residence, it is reasonable to assume that many emerging adults may choose to reside in shared housing accommodations. Historically, shared living has been associated closely with college students (Rhodes, 1999), and those who are financially constrained, typically under the age of 25 (Bell & Jones, 1999).

However, due to the increasing difficulty of maintaining intimate relationships in order to cohabitate, as well as global economic changes in the housing market, shared housing and single-person households have become more common among young professionals (Heath & Kenyon, 2001). According to a study done by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) in 2009, approximately 80% of students live away from their parents during their first year of study, by their final year about 35% are living in shared housing with friends and about 20% are living alone, and 20% live as a couple (Robinson, 2015). Due to this trend towards alternative housing preferences, many researchers have begun to analyze these conditions and their impact on social and emotional well-being.

Shared living has the potential to provide many forms of support for emerging adults, as well as figure 2.19

figure 2.20

relieve the stress of financial and personal challenges. As emerging adults typically move through systems of higher education, they are increasingly exposed to various forms of shared accommodations during their time as students and may continue to choose shared living even after graduation, because it provides a flexible household structure, alongside access to social situations (Heath & Kenyon, 2001). Outside of university housing, shared living typically consists of two or more individuals who utilize a shared kitchen, bathroom, and lounge, in addition to their own personal bedroom spaces, which provides a level of privacy (Williamson, 2006). Typically, these individuals who choose to live together are unrelated, single, childless, employed, and

geographically flexible (Heath & Cleaver, 2003), and despite their expectation of high mobility, home comfort remains very important. In recent years, unprecedented housing shortages disproportionally affected emerging adults who cannot afford to buy or rent a home (Heath et al., 2018). Because of this, shared housing remains a cost-effective solution for students and young professionals (Mackie, 2016), who can split high rent prices and take advantage of shared amenities as well as consistent social exposure. It is clear that the trend towards shared accommodation is likely to continue, which encourages further research into its limitations and possible future improvements to support the well-being of emerging adults.

Limitations of Shared Living

Managing Conflict:

Shared living during emerging adulthood has the potential to provide physical, social, emotional, and mental benefits which may help to support and nurture their development. But as these individuals transition into independence, choosing to cohabitate with peers and friends may also necessitate learning how to manage conflict and difficult conversations, in other words, learning to balance between “I” and “we” (Mause, 2008). When choosing who to live with, many fear living with strangers, and instead prefer to live with friends who already have established a level of comfort and surpassed any initial awkwardness (Clark et al., 2018). There are still risks to living with friends, where conflict may threaten the relationship and cause difficulties in negotiating boundaries and ground rules for the shared space, necessitating good communication between roommates to reach compromise (Clark, 2017). In addition to managing conflict, it is necessary to balance communality and privacy in order both build quality relationships and maintain personal security and expression (Heath et al., 2018).

There are many reasons for which conflict occurs in shared living situations, and learning to navigate and manage this conflict is a necessary step for emerging adults to reach social-emotional maturity. Sources of stress or disagreement such as budgets, household decisions, differing expectations of cleanliness and freeloading (lack of consideration for equal responsibilities) may all

put stress on the interpersonal relationship between roommates (Health & Kenyon, 2001; Heath & Cleaver, 2003, Heath et al., 2018). In order to adequately deal with these inevitable situations, housemates require a sensitivity to each other’s moods and feelings, especially when housing conditions may not be able to accommodate full privacy and territorial definitions (Ahrentzen, 2003). It has been shown that unresolved conflict between housemates may have detrimental physical and psychological consequences (Clark, 2017), especially in cases of young professionals and students who are particularly vulnerable. It is clear that emerging adults who choose to reside in shared living accommodations must also learn how to manage interpersonal relationships and navigate conflicts which arise in order to maintain standards of health and continue to positively develop and transition into adulthood.

“Many actively seek out homes that provide not only adequate shelter, but social and economic support as well.”

- Ahrentzen, 2003

Financial Support:

In the realm of shared housing for emerging adults, securing financial support, or the ability to share financial loads, can play a pivotal role in fostering a stable and conducive living environment. Shared living accommodations offer these young adults a way to increase their autonomy, due to reducing overall costs, which can be seen across many different cultures (Hirayama and Ronald 2008). Many young singles, drawn to urban areas for higher education, tend to prolong their stay in the initial years of their careers, which is reflected in the growing number of young professionals living in dense urban areas (Booi & Boterman, 2019). As emerging adulthood is a time of many transitions as well as characterized

by high rates of financial insecurity, it can be concluded that the transition from school-to-work may create hardships for some. Studies done in the UK show that approximately half of graduates experience a transitional phase post-university, marked by unemployment or non-graduate employment while awaiting full-time graduate opportunities (Robinson et al., 2020). This period of uncertainty can lead to a decline in self-esteem, heightened anxiety, and depression for these emerging adults (Ryan, 2001). Due to the stressors of this period, shared housing continues to grow in popularity in response to financial and social pressures, reflecting not only a shift in accepted living arrangements, by also underscores the broader challenges faced in the modern housing market.

Responding to the demand for flexible and affordable accommodations among young professionals, the shared housing market has emerged and grown quickly, taking into consideration that shared facilities can compensate for smaller-more affordable dwellings (Verhetsel et al., 2017). Due to the uncertain transition from school to work, there has been a rise in numbers of unemployment among emerging adults, as well as a direct correlation between this and the increase in co-residence or shared living (Arundel & Ronald, 2015). Many emerging adults identify financial pressures as a leading reason to participate in shared living (Robinson et al., 2020), and due to the nature of EA, may

figure 2.22

use these accommodations as a transitional or temporary residence (Kim et al., 2020). This trend towards shared living has stimulated the development of new housing models, more complex land and property markets, as well as tenure structures (Healy, 1997), which are hoping to meet the evolving needs of young adults in modern societies. It can be seen that while shared living addresses the financial challenges faced by young adults, offering a practical solution to housing affordability, its potential benefits extend beyond economic considerations, and should continue to be researched and analyzed for future use.

Friendship & Social Support:

Shared living models not only provide a financial cushion, but have been shown to foster a sense of community and provide socialemotional connections necessary for optimal development during EA. As we have established in previous sections, social support systems are particularly beneficial in terms of reducing levels of stress, loneliness, anxiety, and depression, especially among college students and young professionals (Lee & Goldstein, 2016). Despres (1994) posited that functional shared accommodation serves as a surrogate ‘family’, offering a combination of companionship, support, and security. Current research aligns with this proposition and constitutes that the psychological benefits of friendship and mutual support may be as or even more valued than economic necessity (Clark et al., 2018). Though EA is a time of frequent changes and transitions,

consistent social-emotional support can serve to reduce the impact of stress and instability, providing a sense of safety and security.

As many societies have seen a shift towards individuality and living alone, it should not be assumed that these emerging adults are disconnected from family and community life. In fact, many college students and young professionals maintain strong social networks, especially prevalent among city dwellers, even though they may spend a considerable amount of time alone (Heath & Kenyon, 2001). Research has shown that not only can shared living arrangements fulfill the need for love and belonging, but may also promote enhanced social and practical skills, self-reliance, and adaptability in collective living experiences (Clark et al., 2017; Kenyon & Heath, 2001; McNamara & Connell, 2007). It can be seen that shared living accommodations not only offers a modern solution for flexibility and temporary living but may also play a pivotal role in providing emerging adults with the necessary social support and friendship needed for fostering healthy individuals and environments.

Privacy & Security:

In the contemporary housing landscape, the growing trend towards living alone and share living, has led to a dynamic interplay between privacy, affordability, and the evolving role of digital technologies in creating supportive and adaptable relationships between tenants, landlords, and the large community. Shared housing has also been linked to a growing inclination

figure 2.23

for individuals, especially modern emerging adults, to cohabitate with like-minded peers, pursuing selffulfillment beyond the traditional family home (Druta et al., 2021). Notably, when sharing occurs in the context of low-income private renting, challenges such as unwanted co-presence, and concerns for personal safety may arise (Wilkinson & Ortega-Alcazar, 2019). There are opportunities to overcome these issues through spatial design practices (explored in later sections), and technological integrations which improve overall security on site as well as the sense of individual privacy. Despite the possibilities of conflict, research has shown that young adults are often willing to compromise on privacy in order to obtain more affordable housing (Kim et al., 2020).

figure 2.21

In order to meet the everchanging needs of a modern generation moving into the workforce and housing market, many cities around the world have instituted policies and movements towards new housing developments and systems to improve access to affordable housing (Fields, 2019). Stimulated by these movements, new forms of shared housing have emerged as distinctive investment products, offering increased residential security to tenants (Druta et al., 2021). In addition to a variety of new living typologies, digital mediation has reshaped relationships between tenants and landlords, as well as instituted new standards for facility security and inter-facility communications (Fields & Rogers, 2021). Although there may be no predefined formula for a successful and secure living environment, it is possible to create an innovative and sustainable experience when all residents align on principles which govern the household or community.

III. Shared Housing Solutions

Existing Solutions

Co-housing Model:

There are a variety of housing typologies, including the cohousing concept, which strive to create a cohesive and supportive community for individuals of all ages. The cohousing concept was first introduced in the United States in 1988 by architects Kathryn McCamant and Charles Durrett and has been widely expanded on and diversified in more recent years (Fenster, 1999). Cohousing communities are typically comprised of 20-30 dwellings oriented around an open common area or building, in which residents have the ability to shared daily life activities and experiences within a designed facility (Durrett, 2005).

Although this model of shared living has typically been driven by the needs of senior adults, there is much evidence to suggest that many of the same principles would be beneficial to the needs and services of emerging adults. Studies have shown that many factors such as proximity of dwellings, orientation towards neighbors, presence of buffer zones between private and communal spaces, location and quality of common areas, community surveillance and shared pathways impact social interactions within the community (McCammant, 1994; AbuGazzeh 1999; Williams, 2005). These factors along with many others serve to create a strong sense of belonging and support within a densely populated residential development

and provide further comfort within a larger community or urban context.

Within cohousing, connections are established among resource conservation, mutual support, and collective responsibility for sustainability, which are more difficult to obtain at an individual scale (Jarvis, 2011). In addition to the social benefits of this model, shared amenities, reduced need for added infrastructure, and central mechanical systems can be seen as significant environmental advantages (Fenster, 1999). As these principles can be applied to a wide array of users and building configurations, the model of cohousing is increasingly relevant. Being in close proximity to others affords a greater chance of meeting one another and therefore the greater chance of the formation of both casual and more intimate friendships and interactions (AbuGazzeh, 1999). Advocates of this model emphasize the importance of the physical environment design, viewing it as crucial for fostering community bonds, such as centrally located amenities and communal areas, positioned so that residents frequently walk through or past it, encouraging interaction (Fenster, 1999).

Community living such as cohousing developments are becoming more popular on a global scale, as their physical and mental health benefits are continued to be studied. Studies have concluded that the cohousing model may have a favorable connection with health outcomes by influencing psychosocial determinants of health such as heightened social support,

“...the cohousing model can be positively associated with health outcomes through psychosocial determinants of health, such as increased social support, sense of community and physical, emotional and economic security, as well as reduced social isolation.”

- Carrere et al., 2020

decreased social isolation, strong sense of community, and enhanced physical, emotional, and economic security (Carrere et al., 2020). Further research suggests that collective living reduces feelings of loneliness and more significantly improves self-rated levels of overall wellbeing in residents (Sanguinetti, 2015). Cohousing not only offers a practical solution to housing affordability but also addresses the psychosocial needs of residents, by providing a supportive environment that encourages connection, shared responsibilities, and a sense of belonging. The evolving research landscape suggests that cohousing, or similar models of living, has the potential to play a vital role in enhancing the transition to independent adulthood, offering accommodation that encompasses social, emotional, and economic dimensions.

Multi-Unit Residential:

As has been shown, the decreasing affordability of housing and the evolving nature of employment play a major role in the trend towards prolonged periods of renting and shared living throughout adulthood. In major cities, a noticeable shift is underway, where individuals faced with challenges in pursuing homeownership, are increasingly turning to alternative living accommodations, notably shared private renting (Druta et al., 2021; Maalsen, 2019). In nations such as the UK and US, the driving forces behind inner-city and shared housing developments are predominant young (single) professionals and students (Hubbard, 2009). Although there has been a steady inclined in the percentage of solo dwellers in developed cities globally, there is also a growing disparity between aspirations for individual homeownership and the practical expectations of achieving it (Crawford & McKee, 2018). Due to these factors, multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) have increasingly become a prevalent preference for urban living, particularly among young adults.

In the past, many MURBs have been overlooked by researchers, as shared living and long-term individual lifestyles were often looked down upon. The recent surge of interest in collaborative housing reflects a broader movement aimed at redefining housing system and urban governance to create more inclusive and sustainable cities (Hagbert et al., 2019). Kenyon and Heath (2001) highlighted the household practices of house sharers, focusing on young figure 2.22

professionals as a distinct figure in contemporary society. Driven by this modern movement, MURBs have increasingly become more complex, integrating communal areas, shared amenities, and design principles to help develop a sense of belonging and community which may have previously been overlooked (Druta et al., 2021). Many of these environmental factors play a significant role in fostering resident satisfaction and comfort, as well as promoting overall health and wellbeing. Because of the flexibility MURBs offer as a housing typology, this model may be further adapted in order to effectively serve an emerging adult population.

Common Spaces & Shared Amenities

The movement towards shared living accommodations has not only stimulated the development of innovative housing typologies, but also diversified the quality and number of integrated amenities between different buildings or communities. Shared living and urban contexts have necessitated compact living spaces, which further emphasizes the importance of communal spaces and services (Uyttebro et al., 2020). What were formerly regarded as luxuries in student housing, such as kitchens, private bedrooms, bathroom, and social spaces, are now considered necessities even outside of educational housing (La Roche et al., 2010). In addition to these physical spaces and services, the technological progressions across societies have led expectations to extend to enhanced internet and electrical connectivity in all areas. As

In addition to the typical spaces (dining, living, restrooms, etc.), many modern residential developments have challenged the traditional notions of home by introducing flexibility, blending home and work (e.g., co-working), and leisure activities (e.g., swimming pools or movie theaters), which blur the lines between public and domestic interactions (Nasreen & Ruming, 2020). For students and young professionals in particular, services such as laundry facilities, fitness rooms, study, and socializing spaces, as well as individual HVAC control, assist in meeting the demands of an emerging adult figure 2.23

emerging adults are progressively becoming more independent, it is important that residences and communities are fully equipped to meet their needs.

lifestyle and development (Meagher, 2017). Alongside technological integrations, online platforms, apps, and resident portals improve management of shared household arrangements, relations and day-today takes and chores (Druta et al., 2021). It is seen that in contemporary living arrangements, young adults are increasingly prioritizing shared spaces and connectivity, driven by a desire for functional living spaces as well as environments which foster social interactions and a sense of comfort and security.

Health & Wellbeing Impacts

While shared living typologies may not be uniform and can vary significantly, the majority of these housing types, each characterized by unique features, have been observed to exert considerable influence on the overall health and wellbeing of

figure 2.15 their residents. Many factors affect an individual’s perception of ‘home’, such as privacy, security, family, intimacy, comfort, and control, and shared housing is a potentially successful way of fulfilling the needs for safety, love, and esteem (Clark &Tuffin, 2015). Close proximity to others offers almost instant social connections, however interpersonal tensions among housemates can lead to anxiety and animosity, negatively impacting both physical and mental wellbeing (Clark et al., 2018). In order to combat these possible obstacles, it is crucial to address concerns of privacy and household expectations in order to mitigate negatives experiences and outcomes in shared living (Kim et al., 2020).

Studies on models of shared living such as cohousing, although previously focusing primarily on senior adults, have suggested that

community living produces significant benefits for individuals of all ages. As previously established, a lack of social support is closely linked to increased levels of anxiety and depression, feelings of loneliness, and even adverse cardiovascular and mental health outcomes (Carrere et al., 2020). Research has also tied communal and shared living to heightened communication and mobilization amongst residents, as well as a positive increase in self-rated health status (Carrer et al., 2020; Clark et al., 2019). Many environmental factors also play a role in resident satisfaction and wellbeing, which will be explored in later sections. When executed effectively, shared living, cohousing, MURBS, and various other communal living accommodations all present an opportunity to positively impact the mental, emotional, and social wellbeing of emerging adults and their communities.

Environmental Design Considerations

In all cases, the design of the environment has a profound influence on the well-being of individuals, shaping the atmosphere of spaces to enhance comfort, functionality, and aesthetic harmony, ultimately contributing to a positive and enriching living experience. Factors which play a major role in this include but are not limited to color, materiality, furniture selection, lighting, biophilia, and spatial organization which will all be briefly explored within this section. When examined in health care settings, the creation of an environment similar to that of a home, featuring carpet, upholstered furnishings and colored walls, improved morale of patients and employees, especially in women (Connellan et al., 2013). Although there is a lack of concrete evidence which connects color and mood,

“In sum, shared housing could play an important role in meetin fundamental needs for safety, love, and esteem for a particular group of people.”

- Kim et al., 2020

emotions or psychological wellbeing, research has suggested that lack of color, or dismal atmosphere may have negative impacts on mood and mental health (Smith et al., 2012).

Being that there is no predefined set of materials and colors which best serve all individuals, many projects and designs must create a unique set of parts which harmonize to create a balanced atmosphere.

The arrangement of furnishings and spaces within a residence is also very important in creating an environment conducive to collective living. Consideration of distance been furniture arrangements can be used in order to increase interactions and reduce passive or isolated behaviors (Huisman et al., 2012). Many factors of spatial organization also help to improve social engagement, such as centrally located communal spaces and common hallways, which are crucial in fostering passive interaction among residents (Bouma et al., 2015). While high density and living on higher levels may become stressors for some, private areas and buffer zones become essential in providing residents with a sense of comfort and control in order to regulate social interactions (Huisman et al., 2012). In addition to the organization of spaces and functions, the implementation of well-designed wayfinding through color and form, distinct landmarks, and appropriate signage should all be used in order to enhance navigation within the space (Connellan et al., 2013). Ensuring that the design is organized for user efficiency, ease of navigation, and optimal communal functionality is necessary to create a space which adequately serves a diverse set of needs.

In addition to the basics of interior and environmental design, lighting both natural and artificial, as well as biophilic integration both play a pivotal role in creating a modern and innovative atmosphere. In the last ten years alone, biophilic design has received global attention in architecture and design fields, especially in response to growing figure 2.22

environmental changes (Zhong et al., 2022). Although commonly perceived to only be vegetation within interior environments, biophilic design includes elements across physical, sensory, metaphorical, morphological, material, and spiritual means (Browning & Ryan, 2020). These elements may be integrated in a variety of tangible and intangible ways, through water, plants, animals, landscaping, daylight, forms and shapes, patterns and geometries, materials and textures, images, and many other design strategies which have been shown to have positive effects on user well-being. Some benefits of biophilic design include reduced levels of stress, physical and mental restoration, improved mood, and stronger sense of environmental connection for all individuals (Zhong et al., 2022). In the context of young adult housing accommodations, combined planning and design efforts should carefully examine the needs and concerns in terms of physical design, management, and community engagements, to create an environment which nurtures development during EA and nourishes their quality of life.

Conclusion

Throughout this literature review, the developmental stage of emerging adulthood has been defined, as well as the risk factors associated with the period. As EA is a particularly vulnerable period of time, social policy makers, housing market regulators, and support services may all want to further examine how their accommodations may adapt to serve the diverse and ever-changing needs of young adults. It can be seen

that emerging adults face numerous challenges, including financial instability, increasing rates of unemployment, residential insecurity and higher levels of stress and anxiety than other age groups. The current trends in living conditions have reflected a consistent movement towards various typologies of shared housing, which are particularly suitable for students and young professionals.

Although forms of shared living, such as cohousing, have been readily established, many of these typologies have not yet been analyzed in conjunction with emerging adults. Many environmental design strategies can be integrated in order to produce residences and communities which flourish, as they are supported collectively and encouraged to form strong community bonds. Overall, emerging adults face a lack of access to affordable and quality housing accommodations, but there is a strong movement driven by both the design industry as well as the young adult population, to continue to investigate how we might better fulfill their needs in a multi-unit residential setting.

Precedent Studies 2.2

Kaolin Court Laherrere Center

YCON

Residential Building

Cheng Yu Tung Building

The initial step in any architectural design endeavor involves exploring precedents. In the context of this thesis, I researched and analyzed instances that achieved one or more of the following objectives:

• Improved occupants’ health and wellbeing by designing with features like natural light, good ventilation, and green spaces for a positive and supportive living environment.

• Designed spaces to encourage community and social connections, prioritizing shared activities and meaningful interactions among residents.

• Emphasized user experience by incorporating flexible design elements, ensuring adaptability to evolving needs and providing an inclusive and user-friendly environment.

• Prioritized environmentally conscious design by integrating sustainable practices and mindful material use, aiming to minimize the ecological footprint of the architectural project.

Kaolin Court Housing

Location

Designer

Date

Size

Project

Overview

London, United Kingdom

Baca Architects + Stolon Studio Ltd

2020

10,764 SF

Kaolin Court was designed as a small social housing developmemt which would appeal to young families and professionals. The client, a private developer specializing in unique projects, tasked the design team with redeveloping the existing industrial site.

figure 2.21

figure 2.22

Health & Wellbeing

This residential complex was designed in order to use the available space efficiently, while still providing accommodating spaces suitable as live/work units. In order to do this, the units push against the perimeter of the site, directing the majority of views and shared exterior space inwards. The sculptural form of the building façade is designed and manipulated in order to allow sunlight which enters the central courtyard and draws it into each unit through meticulously placed fenestration and skylights.

From the interiors, these windows vary in size and orientation towards the sun, in order to maximize natural light and create connections between correlating public and private interior and exterior spaces. The functional layout of each unit, as well as the abundance of daylight helps to promote productivity and improve overall well-being of residents. Each unit provides ample communal spaces with bright and airy atmospheres to refresh residents.

The unique layout and orientation of each unit and its upper levels creates a dynamic and more personal relationship between the residents and their home. The central courtyard is easily accessible from each unit, encouraging frequent interaction with the outdoor spaces. This courtyard serves residents as a space to relax, play, reflect and engage with the exterior environment, nurturing mental and physical well-being.

figure 2.24

Community & Socialization

As all of the live/work units open up into the central courtyard, residents gain the feeling of individuality through a conceptual sense of a “front porch”. This experience of having one’s own entry and dedicated exterior spaces provides a feeling of security, as well as reinforces a “neighborhood” or community focused feeling.

Throughout the complex, careful consideration was taken in the exchanges and transitions between public and private spaces, taking into consideration views between units. Although all oriented inwards, each unit maintains privacy of views which is allowed through the unique form and differing layouts. The form of the surrounding building shell provides a sense of security and privacy and reduces any impact on neighboring buildings and residences, establishing a sense of safety and privacy within the compound.

The shared amenities are located at the front of the complex, greeting the residents and acting as a welcoming center. The central courtyard further encourages connection and more frequent interaction amongst the residents, as it links all units and provides opportunities for individual and collective activities.

User Experience

Kaolin Court was designed on a 2m slope, and was excavated in order to remove contaminated land, and maximize the amount of usable space within the boundary. The transition from outside the complex was carefully designed, drawing residents through a distinct entry passage, with the most public and shared spaces directly adjacent. The natural rich tones of the tile clad façades create a secluded, inviting, and warm space which contrasts with the stimulating urban environment outside the site.

As the users move into the complex, they are greeted by a generous communal garden and courtyard space, before approaching their own private garden and exterior spaces which precede their front door. Each unit’s unique layout provides Individuality and Identity within the complex, as each resident’s view to the exterior Is framed to offer a specific perspective, control privacy, and maximize natural light.

“...the development has a clear drive to enhance the well-being and ‘sociability’ of the residents.”

- Stolon Studio Ltd

figure 2.26

figure 2.27

Sustainability & Biophilia

In order to redevelop the existing industrial site into a multi-unit residential complex which would be affordable for families and young professionals, the team worked on a strict budget, with the goal of adding value to the property. In order to further lower the cost and environmental impact of the project, local contractors and suppliers were identified and utilized to integrate more sustainable practices and materials. The existing footprint of the site is fully utilized, pushing enclosures to the boundaries to create the central courtyard, as well as maximize both shared and public spaces.

The simplicity and minimalism of the interiors provide a feeling of openness, maximizing the relatively small footprint of individual units. Although the overall form of the buildings Is relatively sharp and angular, tile clad façades and timberlined entrances serve to soften and add texture to the exterior. The central courtyard and gardens allow for a consistent relationship to the outdoors, and is supplemented through plantings, grassy patches, and reflecting pools to engage residents. The design of the approach to each unit ensures that residents frequently experience the outdoor spaces, encouraging visual and physical interaction with the various plants and water features, improving overall well-being and lowering stress levels.

Laherèrre Center

Location

Designer

Date

Size

Project

Overview

Pau, France

Cobe Architecture & Paysage

+ WEEK Architecture

2023

120,664 SF

The Laherèrre Center is a mizeduse development which combines both a housing and entreprenurial hub in order to serve a diverse range of users. As this design is part of a larger district renovation plan, this complex hopes to nourish and enrich the lives of its residents, becoming of cornerstone of support and resilience, which will help transform the overall community.

Vertical Circulation

Reception Areas

Offices

Student Housing Young Adult Housing Common Areas

Police Station

Technical rooms

Breweries & Restaurants

Technical rooms

Health & Wellbeing

Through the development of this multi-use project, the design teams focused on creating an active living and working environment which would energize residents and attract students and young professionals The complex features two distinct building structures, the focus of one which hopes to respond to the lack of affordable student housing and ease the financial pressures of higher education.

In order to accommodate student needs and serve their overall wellbeing, the complex integrates spaces for professional trainings, social gatherings, and healthy activities. The post and beam system which forms the buildings allows for a wide array of programs and a high amount of flexibility within the complex. This ability to adapt ensures that the design will continue to adequately serve the changing needs of its users over time.

The site configuration, as well as interior to exterior relationships promote productivity and healthy habits by providing large, shared spaces and ample exterior visual and physical connections. Overall, this design shows a drive and commitment to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors, through its inclusivity, sense of community, diverse accommodations and relationship to its site and extended community.

figure 2.33

Community & Socialization

This mixed-use development becomes a hub for students and young professionals to make connections and form relationships with others who live and work in the complex. The Lahererre Center creates a living space similar to a village, framed by two multi-use buildings, this bustling community creates a sense of togetherness.

The large concentration of residential units allows for people to live alone, as couples or with multiple roommates, providing a diverse set of accommodations and levels of community interaction. Closely connected to the residential units, offices and coworking floors support professional activities as well as the sharing of knowledge amongst students. Large flex-use rooms support small events and learning experiences as well as social gatherings. The design of the complex also features shared common spaces for working and relaxation, such as furnished landings and shared entrance halls, which further encourage socialization.

In addition, the secondary building of the complex also integrates breweries, shops and and multi-purpose spaces for residents to utilize and supplement their daily activities, as well as police services to ensure safety and comfort of all users in the complex. The design focuses on tying together people from all walks of life, providing inclusive and diverse opportunities for the growing community and its residents.

User Experience

This hub of residential and retail activity is part of the Saragosse district, which has been undergoing major changes as part of an urban revitalization project. The complex meets the community’s need for connectivity through a heavy emphasis on the integration of bike paths, walking trails, and public transportation stops. Residents and visitors are encouraged to utilize the outdoor common spaces, which are often set up for small gatherings and temporary markets, bringing in new users and new experiences for those who live within the complex. The many programs within each of the buildings allow residents not only to live among their peers but also to enjoy their daily activities

within the comfort of their direct community. Restaurants and breweries within the complex serve as casual entertainment and a means of bonding with others, while the shops and professional center provide easy access to resources which supplement routines and help to retain relationships. While there is an adequate amount of privacy within the residential areas, the rest of the complex becomes a hub of professional and casual activity. Overall, the complex provides residents and users with a unique experience, which encourages individual and community growth, while also providing comfort and security.

figure 2.34

“...contributes to improving the living environment of the inhabitants... and to meeting a maximum of needs.

- CoBe Architects

figure 2.35

Sustainability & Biophilia

The complex was constructed on what was previously a hospice site, which was left in very poor condition after the demolition. In hopes to revitalize this site, a multitude of programs were introduced which would turn the wasted space into a hub of community activity. The design of the complex is part of a global sustainable development approach which combines bioclimatic design, bio-based materials, and energy performance. A centralized heating system ensures that the complex remains cost-efficient for residents as well as environmentally mindful as a whole.

The materiality of the exterior façades is a mix of wood, concrete, and glass. Large archways line the entrances, constructed from low carbon concrete pours to reduce environmental impact. These are joined to the shells through cladding made from wood sourced from French forests less than 450 km from the site.

On the interior, large fenestration provides ample daylight which brightens shared and private spaces. This abundance of sunlight and addition of shared terraces makes the small footprint of residential units (essential to ensure building efficiency) more comfortable for users and builds a relationship visually and physically to the outdoors. Both the materiality, landscaping, and emphasis of views to the exterior impact the overall atmosphere, encouraging environmentally conscious lifestyles and choices.

figure 2.37

YCON Residential Building

Location

Designer

Date

Size

Project

Overview

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Studioninedots

2023

17,653 SF

Nestled within the urban development of Amsterdam, this residential design becomes an eye-catching architectural icon. Promoting sustainable living practices and integrated biophilic design strategies, this multilevel residence provides flexible accomodations as well as a balance of privacy and communal interaction.

Health & Wellbeing

The focus of this residential design Is to provide users with maximum flexibility and comfort, as well as a restorative connection with the natural environment. Storyhigh, folding glass walls allow living spaces to open up and extend into each other as well as into the terraces and gardens. This flexibility allows the users a full living space as well as a feeling of individuality as they may manipulate the space as needed.

These shared gardens stagger on the façade creating a dynamic visual and provide air purification and passive cooling to each level, ensuring high quality experiences for the residents within. The abundance of gardens and wide variety of plants also attract insects and butterflies, deepening users’ relationship, and respect for the environment around them. In addition, the waterfront location and large glazing allow for beautiful views and an abundance of sunlight entering each space.

At the ground level, the design integrates a large communal garden with ample seating and relaxation space, ensuring that residents experience the environment both individually and as a community, improving their quality of life. The building’s location and orientation towards the sun works together with the lush vegetation to draw the users’ focus from within to the outside, while also creating an eyecatching and inspirational symbol of healthy community living to the extended community.

figure 2.41

figure 2.42

Community & Socialization

This building design features various layouts suitable for couples, roommates, and small families, providing them a relationship with one another, the city, and the natural environment. On the ground floor of the residential complex, large gardens and outdoor spaces provide ample space to relax and socialize. This area includes bike storage and leads directly to the shared utilities which exist on the first floor. These shared spaces and amenities also encourage frequent interaction with neighbors, establishing a support network and relationships among residents.

Each individual unit allows living spaces to expand and easily accommodate the needs of small gatherings and social events within the relatively small footprint. The design of each floor and its gardens varies in order to create a dynamic layout and orient neighbors towards one another. This intentionally manipulation of views directs the focus of user’s outwardly and towards one another. Privacy is maintained within bedrooms and restrooms, while the living spaces open to the exterior and promote frequent interaction physically and visually between residents. Within the larger community, the YCON residential building becomes an icon of architecture, and creates opportunities for residents to form a support system within and outside of the building.

User Experience

From the exterior, this residential building seems to almost conform to the existing cityscape, matching the scale and dynamic construction of many surrounding buildings. It differs significantly from others through its unique integration of lush vegetation, which has continued to grow and takeover the façade since its installment. The ground level garden and seating areas are pulled back from the entry, providing a secluded and quiet getaway from the bustle and activity on the street. On the upper levels of the building, residential units are oriented towards the city canal, becoming a prime destination to draw in new users, and reinforcing a connection to the larger community.

The flexible layout of the units makes them suitable for both families and young professionals, while the multiple gardens make terraces and shared spaces a favorite place to relax and social-ize amongst the other users. Overall, the design of this residence provides a unique experience for its guests, allowing them to both fully integrate themselves into the city activities as well as maintain privacy and security within their smaller community and support system.

figure 2.43

“...creates an environment suited to future-proof living in the city.”

- Studioninedots

figure 2.44 figure

Sustainability & Biophilia

This design shows an explicit focus on biophilic integration through the use of elevated gardens and an abundance of plantings which emerge from the façade. These plantings are drawn inwards throughout shared corridors and spaces on the lower level of the building. The large amount of glazing helps draw in natural light to support the growth of the indoor plantings and provide passive heating within the units.

Shared amenities help reduce overall costs and energy usage, while bike storage and outdoor connections encourage healthy habits of travel into the city and community. The materials used both on the exterior and interior reflect the industrial nature of the city and community, while maintaining and exceeding the local standard for sustainability and low-carbon emissions. The structure of the design is made from prefabricated concrete elements, made to be demountable and suitable for possible reuse in the future.

This structure helps to support the thick layer of soil which is needed to sufficiently nourish the native plants, shrubs, flowers, and vegetables. Within the footprint of the building, rainwater is collected, stored, and reused to irrigate the vast number of gardens, reducing the environmental impact of the design. Not only do these systems support the direct residents and building, but also help to reduce the pressure put on local rainwater and sewage systems.

figure 2.46

Cheng Yu Tung Building

Location

Designer

Date

Size

Project

Overview

Oxford, United Kingdom

MICA Architects

2022

87080 SF

This mixed-used building in central Oxford was completed as an additional for Jesus College, which combines teaching, retail, research, healthcare, and student living. This complex project hopes to revitalize a previously unsighly site, into a sustainable and pleasant hub of activty, in order to support students and the community.

figure 2.47

2.48

figure 2.49

figure

Health & Wellbeing

This mixed-use design creates a dynamic intervention within the historic city, serving student wellbeing not only architecturally, but also programmatically. The variety of programs within the building supports a well-rounded approach to student life and shared living, ensuring all aspects of one’s needs can be served. The site provides a large number of student residential units, closely tied to local healthcare facilities and well-ness rooms which ensure quality care both physically and mentally for the users.

Architecturally, the bright and open communal spaces breathe life back into the site, as daylight is drawn into all spaces through meticulously placed fenestration. Skylights and carefully balanced artificial lighting create a comfortable atmosphere throughout the building at all times of day. The layout of the building allows the upper floors to frame a central courtyard space, creating a unique relationship between exterior and interior spaces. This central space provides users with various outdoor experiences for both relaxation and socialization.

The views which are framed towards the courtyard and the urban streetscape are highlighted within the interiors, providing users with a strong sense of place. Since its completion, this project has drawn attention from the community, receiving positive responses due to its openness and clarity of design, which has benefitted the productivity and wellbeing of both students and faculty on campus.

figure 2.50

figure 2.51

Community & Socialization

This complex serves as a hub of activity for not only students on campus, but also becomes a modern addition to the evolving cityscape. The building takes cues from the historical architecture of the college, being sure to respond differently to the existing urban environment on all faces of the façade. The central courtyard space is ideal for communal events and gatherings, as well as a casual hub of interaction leading to the building of relationships. The large interior and exterior spaces are designed so that they can be constantly viewed from the street, becoming a lantern which illuminates the innovation and activity.

To meet the needs of a diverse student population, the design emphasizes shared amenities which encourage socialization including dining, cafes, terraces, and lounge spaces. In addition to these functions, the design also provides spaces which foster the sharing of knowledge and accommodating interdisciplinary work such as teaching halls, research labs, faith spaces, exhibition, and gallery spaces. As part of a movement towards technological integration on campus, this complex becomes an optimal facility for digital research to be displayed a visualized, not just for the use of students, but in order to impact the extend community. These programmatic spaces as well as intentional design decisions work together in order to provide a unique set of experiences which foster a sense of belonging for its residents and users.

User Experience

Within the larger context of the site, this modern insertion within the historic community strives to provide distinct programs which come together in a complimentary way. Working to promote inclusivity and equity, all sides of the building provide means of step-free access to each level. Within the interiors, the design transforms a previously enclosed space into one of transparency and legibility, creating clarity of navigation and use throughout the building. A simple material palette, light walls and an abundance of natural light highlight grand gestures within the spaces, allowing it to be filled by the user activities and displays produced by them. Students are encouraged to

utilize all functions within the building, allowing them access to study spaces and communal spaces at all times of day in addition to their own private units, providing a sense of flexibility and individuality alongside bonding experiences with others. In contrast to these large and open gathering spaces, smaller more intimate spaces feature warm artificial lighting and lounge furniture for optimal comfort, encouraging continued use over time. With this new addition to the campus and community, the design hopes to improve student retention, increase interdisciplinary collaboration, and promote overall social and emotional well-being of users.

figure 2.52

“...turning a previously unsightly back, into a positive front.”

- MICA Architects

figure 2.53

figure 2.54

Sustainability & Biophilia

This building complex puts longevity, sustainability, and future implications at the forefront of the design. The project maintains the highest standards of embodied and operational carbon, water usage, and biodiversity gain, pulling elements from the local Oxford (NRIA), WELL, and BREEAM standards.

The design retains and reuses an existing concrete structure, including existing basement slabs, foundations, and walls, reducing the amount of new structure required. The upper floors, and new additions to the structure are constructed using cross-laminated timber, a material which provides benefits through carbon sequestration, making it carbon-negative. Locally sourced, natural stone clads the exterior facades, connecting the modern building to the surrounding heritage while also reducing the need for manufactured products or extensive transportation, and increases the long tern durability of the building.

This design scheme is also Oxford’s first all-electric building, which integrates on-site energy generation, alongside a concealed ground source heat pump. Designing these systems in this way not only helps it to abide by Oxford’s skyline and elevation standards, as well as its archaeological rules. Fulfilling its goal to become a sustainability and innovation icon within the campus and city, this building dedicates itself to the long-term success of its students, residents, and larger community.

figure 2.55

Site Analysis 2.3

Site selection, adjacencies, climate data, & demographic information.

After conducting a literature review and analyzing similar precedents, research on the living conditions of young adults within the United States was conducted to ascertain potential cities in which to locate the project. Within the US, nearly 77.5 million adults were reported to be living alone or in shared living accommodations in 2023, which has steadily been increasing since 1967. Based on the analysis of a study done to determine the top 25 cities best suited for young adults, Dallas, Texas was ultimately chosen as the site, where about 18% of the population is between the ages of

20 and 35. Within the closer context of the city, the Downtown Historic District provides an abundance of walking-distance entertainment options, close access to daily needs and services, and an optimal location for utilizing public transportation to travel throughout the rest of the city. Surveying the area’s demographics, climate data, and analyzing an existing building provided an understanding of the possible design opportunities and affordances specific to the chosen site in order to fulfill the goals and objectives of the project.

Emerging Adult Populaion

In the United States, the percentage of adults married and living with a spouse has steadily decreased. In 1967, this percentage was about 70%, and has declined to 50% or below by 2023.

Societal changes and market conditions have led to changes in housing and rent trends.

30% of adults over 18 were reported to be living alone or in shared living accomodations in the US in 2023.

52% of the population aged 18-29 have been reported to be living within a parental home or returned to it after 2020.

Cities in the United States with a high percentage of emerging adults and deemed best suited for meeting their needs. Based on job availability, commute time, public transportation quality, percentage of young adults, and income relative to cost of living.

St. Louis, MO, 16%

Fayetteville, AR, 23%

Houston, TX, 16%

Dallas, TX, 18%

Austin, TX, 19%

Albany, NY, 22%

Pittsburg, PA, 22%

Lexington, KY, 18%

Durham, NC, 18%

Raleigh, NC, 18%

Charlotte, NC, 17%

Gainesville, FL, 26%

Dallas, Texas

Dallas is part of the fourthlargest metropolitan area in the United States, as well as the ninth largest city in the nation. Known for it’s ‘big-city vibe’, this city features a number of museums, a large arts district, and an abundance of attractions.

Population by age range

Dallas has a relatively large number of people in their 20s to early 40s compared to the rest of the country. There is a relatively small elderly population as well as young children living in Dallas, particularly in the downtown areas. The areas closest to the chosen site have a high density of young adults ranging from 20-35, creating a hub of both professional and casual activity.

Total Population: 2,600,840

Population by sex & ethnicity

The people living within this area are primarily white, with a significant portion of the population falling into the Hispanic and African American demographics. In addition to this, the population is fairly evenly split between male and female residents, leaning slightly towards being majority female. Due to its rich history and recent growth of more diverse populations, this area is continuing to develop into a unique and colorful urban landscape.

Dallas County, TX

This large metropolitan area lies along the Trinity River, near its three junctions. This region is home to prairies, tree-lined creeks and rivers, and gentle rolling hills.. Dallas is the state’s third-most populous city, heavily intertwined with the Fort Worth area, the combination known locally as the Metroplex. Surrounding the city, there is a high density of manmade lakes compared to many other areas in the country, with a total of 60 lakes and over 50,000 acres of public parkland. Today the city is known for its high concentration of shops and restaurants, alongside many iconic skyscrapers and city-centers, creating a contemporary urban atmosphere.

Education

Dallas, and particularly the 75202 zip code are likely to be some of the nicer and more affluent parts of the metropolitan area. A majority of this population has obtained at a minimum a highschool diploma, and a large portion has pursued and gained higher education degrees. There is a very small percentage of this population (under 18) who has not obtained any recorded education, leading this area to be a knowledge center and hub for up-and-coming information based professional markets.

Old East Dallas

South Dallas

Cedars

Historic District

Originally established as one of Dallas’ first warehouse districts in the 1920s, the West End Historic District eventually became a top

Average Rent

This district features a range of residential options, characterized by recently renovated warehouses and industrial buildings alongside the new developments of modern high-rises.

Income

Within this district, the typical household income is relatively higher than most places in the contry, but is also accompanied by relatively higher costs of living. The Historic District offers an abundance of attractions and amentities providing upscale living conditions.

Househould Age

The Historic district tends to attract primarily young professionals and higher education students, alongside a small yet diverse mix of middle-aged adults largely without young children.

tourist attraction during the 1980s, and is now being revitalized as the heart of the technology boom in Dallas.

$1300-$2300 $2300-$3800 one-bedroom two/three-bedroom

$57,500

median household income

Within this area, the head of household on average is relatively low, with the highest number of these individuals being between the ages of 24-35.

median age

34 families with kids

SITE

West End Square

SITE

Dallas College El Centro Campas

Founder’s Plaza

El Centro Wellness Center

Dealey Plaza

Civic Garden

AT&T Discovery District

Site Adjacencies

Located at 805 Elm St, the selected site is in close proximity to many shops, restaurants, museums, and parks. Its prime location allows residents to easily access daily needs and an abundance of entertainment.

areas walkable in 15 min

96

76 walk-score bike-score

areas bike-able in 15 min

Climate

Dallas’ climate is classified as subtropical, meaning that it experiences relatively hot and humid summers alongside cool to mild winters. The area brings in hot and humid air from the Gulf of Mexico to the south, rarely experiences snowfall, but is susceptible to its share of

tornados and flooding in extreme instances. Thunderstorms are quite common in this region, alongside the frequent tornadoes occurring along Tornado Alley, with an average of 139 per year. The following graphs provide a deeper and more detailed analysis of each aspect of Dallas’ climate.

Average HIgh & Low Temperature

The average high temperatures in Dallas, TX range from mid 50s to high 90s Fahrenheit. This area experiences hot summers and cooler winters, with an average low of about 39 degrees Fahrenheit, lending it to have a mild and relatively comfortable climate year round.

Average Hourly Temperature

Dallas’ climate zone experiences moderate fluctuations between high and low temperatures throughout the day, providing residents with a relatively consistent sense thermal comfort. Similarly to many places in the country, the coldest times of day occur after sunset and before sunrise, reaching the highest temperature around 4 pm on average.

Wind Speed

In Dallas, the winds speeds experienced differ significantly between seasons and over the course of the year. During the windier times of the year, speeds range from about 9.9 to 11.5 miles per hour.

Wind Direction

Similarly to wind spped, the wind direction greatly varies throughout the year. Most often coming in from the south, the average percentage of hours this wind is experienced peaks at 71% typically during July.

Climate (con’t.)

Average Monthly Rainfall

Dallas, Texas experiences significant variation in rainfall across seasons, ranging from about 1.5 to 4.2 iches. The largest amount of rain occurs during the months of May and October, with the driest periods occuring in July and August.

Cloud Cover

Over the course of the year, Dallas experiences only a mild change in sky coverage. The cloudier part of the year occurs between November and May, with the clearest parts of the year being experienced in October. On average, the clearest time of year is mostly clear about 71% of the time.

Humidity Comfort Levels

In comparison to other areas of the country, Dallas experiences extreme seasonal variation in percieved humidity levels. This humidity reaches the level of ‘oppressive’ or ‘miserable’ most often (about 26 days on average) during July.

Sun Path

The selected building and site is located within a fairly dense part of the downtown area in which the street grids are somewhat irregular. The building’s position is slightly offset from the cardinal directions, with one facade facing primarily to the south. This south side is unblocked by surrounding buildings and faces the connected exterior lot, bringing in an abundance of light and offering clear views to the surrounding urban area. Each side of the building is largely

unblocked, and the building’s height (6 stories) allows for maximum light to enter and rises to meet the approximate height of the surrounding developments. Though the existing building shell does not feature many windows on either the south or east side, there is ample opportunity for modifications to the shell in order to integrate larger new fenestration aligning with the chosen design to be detailed out in Chapters 3 & 4.

Summer Solstice

Winter Solstice

Existing Structure

West Facade

805 Elm Street, Dallas, TX

Built 1904 / Renovated 2013

63,037 SF / 5 Stories

The chosen existing building on this site currently serves as communty gathering and warehouse spaces. The ground level is the only floor which is currently fully occupied and used for public access.

The structure of the building is comprised of thick wood columns and beams, which remains fully exposed throughout. The heavy brick exterior walls and existing fenestration on the north and west sides will be maintained in order to maintain the historic character of the building and site. Overall the existing lot and building are under-utilized, providing opportunity for renovation and community revival.

Exisiting floorplans are shown later, as it is used in order to create the conceptual parti, as well as determine broad spatial relationships and separations. The interior ceiling and column structure heavily impacts the aesthetic and design decisions made later on throughout the process.

Schematic Design

3.1 Programming & User Personas

3.2 Concept Development

3.3 Parti & Design Language

3.4 Zoning

In the process of determining the building’s program, a crucial aspect involves the conceptual development, which lays the foundation for the project’s overall design and user experience. This phase goes beyond mere functional requirements, aiming to capture the essence of the building’s purpose and its intended interaction with users and the environment. Concept development involves exploring various ideas, themes, and narratives that will inform the building’s design language, spatial organization, and user experience. It seeks to create a cohesive and meaningful architectural expression that resonates with the building’s users and context.

This process often starts with a thorough analysis of the site, users, and programmatic requirements,

followed by brainstorming and sketching to generate innovative design concepts. These concepts are then refined through feedback, iteration, and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure they align with the project’s goals and vision. The final concept serves as a guiding principle throughout the design process, influencing decisions regarding spatial layout, materiality, circulation, and aesthetics.

Ultimately, a well-developed concept not only informs the physical aspects of the building but also enhances its overall functionality, user experience, and emotional resonance. It transforms a building from a mere structure into a meaningful space that enriches the lives of its users and contributes positively to its surroundings.

Programming & User Personas 3.1

Program summary, adjaceny and bubble diagramming, user understanding

The creation of bubble diagrams is a vital early step in architectural design, helping to determine spatial relationships within a building or site. These diagrams are conceptual sketches that represent different programmatic elements, showing their approximate size and the relationships between them. By doing this we can visualize and explore various spatial configurations

and adjacencies. Additionally, user development involves analyzing the specific needs and characteristics of the users who will inhabit the space. This includes understanding their preferences, behaviors, and functional requirements, which are essential in shaping the design to cater to their unique needs and create a more user-centric environment.

Program Summary

Space SF Privacy Security

Kitchen Dining

Living Room

In-Unit

Bedrooms (x1-3)

Bathroom

Workspace

Storage

Communal

Lobby / Reception

Mail Room

Social Lounge

Activity / Exercise

Private Study (x4)

Collaborative Work

Shared Dining

Secure from entry

Secure from entry

Secure from entry

Lockable Door

Lockable Door

Secure from entry

Secure from entry

Keycard Access

Keycard Access

Keycard Access

Spatial Characteristics Adjacencies

Central and accessible, efficiently organized, implement task lighting

Central and accessible, well lit, flexible for variety of uses

Central, welcoming and comfortable, soft textures, natural light

Enclosed and private, warm and soft with individual comfort contol

Enclosed and private, efficient layout, ample lighting

Integrated into communal spaces, use of paritions and efficient furnishings

Enclosed, small, non-inhabitable space

Open, accessible and visible from street entry, informal seating

Easily accessible from public area, clean, efficient, durable materials

Welcoming, centrally located, soft textures and comfortable furnishings

Central, mostly enclosed, provide acoustic and visual privacy

Central, accessible, enclosed, integrated technology, task lighting

Central, accessible, open, acoustic privacy, flexible arrangments

Central, accessible, welcoming, cleanable furniture and ample lighting

Dining, living room, storage

Kitchen, living room

Kitchen, dining, workspace

Bathrooms, storage

Storage, bedrooms, living room

Living room, bedrooms

Kitchen, living room

Mail room, social lounge

Lobby, reception, laundry

Lobby, study & work, activity

Social lounge, shared dining

Collaborative work, social lounge

Private study, social lounge, activity

Social lounge, activity

Program Summary (con’t.)

Spatial Characteristics Adjacencies

Enclosed, secure and privately located, lockable enclosures

Central, accessible, clean and efficiently organized, warm and comfortable

Easily accessible from entries, lockable enclosures

Enclosed, secure, easy access to resdience, comfortable and well lit

Laudry, management offices

Storage, mail room

Parking, entries

Lobby, reception, storage

Open, outdoor environment, accessible and welcoming

Open, natrual light and ventilation, safe and inviting, visually stimulating

Open, central, natural light and ventilation, comforatble furnishings

Entries, bike storage

Social lounge, patio

Social lounge, garden

Central and open, ample light, clean and easily navigated

Entry & Support Zone

Manager - Lila, 36 years old

Lila works full-time as the complex manager, spending her free time making connections withing the complex and extended community.

Needs/Desires:

• Privacy when working in office

• Secure storage and organization of resident and monetary files

• Access to communal areas

• Calm and relaced atmosphere

• Natural light and comfortable long-term furniture

Visitor - Bill, 73 years old

Bill is a grandparent of a resident at the complex, who likes to come visit with the rest of the family as often as he can.

Needs/Desires:

• Wheelchair access within interior & exterior

• Ample circulation space

• Ease of navigation within the building

• Celebrate milestones with his grandchildren

Cluster of 2-3 small offices, with secure entries and private storage space. Each requires good ambient and task lighting, as well as task surfaces.

Entry into this area is easily located from outside, and provides full ADA accessibility. Designed to ensure a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Navigating past this point relies on implementation of wayfinding and signage strategies.

Directly adjacent to entry and lobby space, seen and recognized by visitors as they navigate. Easily accessed by staff, providing ample space for technolgy and furnishings.

Exterior Spaces

The close relationship between exterior communal spaces, such as parks, and communal gardens, and interior communal spaces, like shared lounges or dining areas, plays a pivotal role in fostering socialization and nurturing relationships among residents. These spaces act as extensions of residents’ homes, providing inviting environments for spontaneous

interactions and community gatherings. The flow between interior and exterior spaces encourages residents to engage with their surroundings and each other, creating a sense of belonging within the community. These spaces often serve shared activities and events, further enhancing social bonds and creating a vibrant, inclusive community

Communal Spaces

1 Bedroom Unit

Resident - Amanda, 25 years old

Amanda works as a nurse at a nearby hospital, utilizing public transportation often. She lives alone with her dog.

Needs/Desires:

• Access to outdoor space for walking her dog.

• Comfortable space for relaxing and recreation on her days off.

• Ability to meet new people and form friendships.

• Easy access to laundry to wash her scrubs frequently.

Visitor - Sarah, 22 years old

Sarah works at the hospital with Amanda, and considers her a close friends. She often visits her friend they bake and watch movies together.

Needs/Desires:

• Layout and oven space for baking food and treats with her friends.

• Making new friends, finding new places to socialize.

• Easy and safe navigation in and out of the building.

Large floor space, suitable for dog owners, durable materials and warm atmosphere.

Closely connected to kitchen space, provides ample task and ambient lighting.

Efficient layout, providing as much countertop space and storage and possible.

Ample natural light when needed, and adjustable shading devices. Consider utilizing built in storage, providing adequate electric accessibility, and increased square footage.

Integrate efficient storage space, additional countertop area, cleanable materials and efficient lighting strategies

Provide natural lighting and views to the outside environment. Maintain adequate acoustical and visual privacy.

2 Bedroom Unit

Resident - Georgia, 27 years old

Georgia and her husband recently moved to Dallas, where Georgia now uses thier second bedroom as a studio/workspace.

Needs/Desires:

• Space for creating products.

• Private area for meeting with coworkers and clients.

• Abundance of natural lighting for creative work.

• Place to display and grow plants.

• Inviting and clean atmosphere.

Resident - Thomas, 29 years old

Thomas works downtown, and occasionally works very odd hours. In his down time he enjoys hosting friends and family.

Needs/Desires:

• Acoustically private sleeping and working spaces.

• Space for hosting dinners and gatherings.

• Comfortable lounge and relaxation space.

• Spending free-time with Georgia.

The dining space is open to the living and kitchen spaces. Provides a warm and energizing atmosphere for eating and gathering.

Integrate efficient storage and appliances for everyday cooking and use. Provide suitable task and ambient lighting, as well as easily cleanable materials.

Provides natural light to support plant growth and views to the outside. Create comfortable atmospher for residents and guests.

Each bedroom is designed to allow user flexibility, provide ample storage space, and relax and rejuvenate users. Bedrooms also provide natural light promoting other daytime activity.

The workspace allows users a visually and acoustically private space to promote focus and productivity. Provides adequate task and ambient lighting.

3 Bedroom Unit

Resident - Mateo, 19 years old

Mateo attends the nearby university as a full-time freshman student. He is new to Dallas, but enjoys exploring and hanging out with his roommates.

Needs/Desires:

• Quiet space to focus and do all schoolwork.

• Comfortable space for playing videogames with roommates.

• Access to activities and spaces to make new relationships

Visitor - William, 48 years old

William is a father and visitor to the residential complex. He is excited to come visit Mateo while he is away at school.

Needs/Desires:

• Comfortable space to gather and visit with loved ones.

• Ensure the saftey of his child within the complex.

• Ease of building navigation.

• Social and meet Mateo’s new roommates and friends.

The workspace provides an acoustically private working atmosphere to promote focus and productivity.

Closely connected and open to the living and kitchen spaces which provide a warm and energizing atmosphere.

Creates open floorplan, allows for efficient use of space by multiple users. Integrate task and ambient lighting strategies.

Workspace

Provides a soothing and calm relaxation space, large enough for all resdients. Implements adjustable ligthing and techonolgy integration to maximizes user comfort.

Each bathroom integrates storage and organization space. Task and ambient lighting strategies to support all activity, as well as ample circulation space to increase comfort.

Each bedroom is designed to allow user flexibility, provide ample storage space, and relax and rejuvenate users. Bedrooms also provide natural light as well as acoustical and visual privacy.

Concept Development 3.2

Developing a conceptual foundation helped to inform and guide design decisions throughout the development process, curating visual and spatial inspiration in line with a common theme which seeks to encapsulate the essence and life of the project. This foudation serves as a guideline for later design decisions, ensuring all aspects relate back to a core idea.

Concept Development

Introduction

“A World is not an ideology nor a scientific institution, nor is it a system of ideologies; rather, it is a structure of unconscious relations and symbiotic processes.”

- William Irwin Thompson

As I began to explore ideas of the concept for my design, I was continually intrigued by the notion of living collectively. Our idea of “home” and what that means has drastically changed in recent years, where people are now gravitating towards less traditional forms of housing. Alongside the increase in people who don’t live in a traditional house, there has also been a drastic increase in the amount of people who live in shared housing conditions, as explored in the previous research sections.

Understanding how we can successfully live as a group, no matter how large or small, requires a more evolved understanding of interpersonal relationships and interactions. This shared living relays on underlying networks and connections which allow for collective action. Oftentimes these relationships and links between individuals go unnoticed, though all separate parts have the ability to influence one another, and in turn enact change within the larger whole.

After exploring a range of concepts which center around this idea of living collectively, I settled upon ‘Symbiosis’. In its broadest and most literal definition, symbiosis simply means “life together”. This idea encapsulates all aspects of what it means to have a community and mutual support from those around you, creating a powerful whole.

Overlap

Link

Interaction

Comfort

Connection Community Network Support

Companionship

Collaborate

Bridge Proximity

Shared

Synergy

Idealistic Symbiosis

Protect

Unity Harmony

Collective

Exchange

Mutualistic

Interdependent Nourish

Reciprocal

Symbiosis

The word “symbiosis” was derived from the Greek word symbiosis meaning “living together”, or “one living together with another”, being a partner, companion, husband or wife. This word was later adopted in biological communities, redefining it as meaning, “union for life of two different organisms based on mutual benefit”.

Although the exact definition may vary in scientific communities, this concept largely relies on the peaceful coexistence between multiple parties where all benefit. In these symbiotic systems, all parties provide support and nourishment to those they are connected to.

As seen in the various examples of symbiosis both in the natural and built environments, the connections rely on specific conditions in order to thrive. In order to better understand and utilize this conept within the design, it has been broken down into three parts. Each of these sub-concepts represent ideas and conditions which help to maintain balance and harmony within a collective system.

“Love is a positive, symbiotic, reciprocal flow between two or more entities.”

- Inga Musico

Break Down

Balance

Harmony

Contrast

Auspicious Reciprocal

Movement

Rhythm

Repetition

Propinquous

Cluster

Centrality

Overlap

Auspicious

giving or being a sign of future success; conducive to success; favorable; showing or suggesting that future success is likely.

Balance Harmony Contrast

In symbiotic systems, maintaining balance is essential to ensure that all parts are contributing and recieving equally. When systems or relationships fall out of balance, its is often to the detriment of some parts.

In symbiotic systems, maintaining balance is essential to ensure that all parts are contributing and recieving equally. When systems or relationships fall out of balance, its is often to the detriment of some parts.

Light Shadow Composition

Reciprocal

given, felt, or done in return; (of an agreement or obligation) bearing on or binding each of two parties equally; expressing mutual action or relationship.

Movement

Rhythm

Repetition

Reciprocity in relationships is the mutual exchange of energy and support between partners. There are different types of reciprocity: Generalized reciprocity is giving without expecting a specific outcome, balanced reciprocity is an equal give-and-take, and negative reciprocity is unequal.

Reciprocal describes the state of being given, felt, or done in return. In its different forms it expresses mutual actions or relationships, which often bind each

Direction Mutual Exchange

Propinquous

the state of being close to someone or something; physical closeness of one person to another; nearness in place or time, nearness in relationship, or nearness of blood.

Cluster Centrality Overlap

In social psychology, propinquity; from Latin propinquitas, “nearness”) is one of the main factors leading to interpersonal attraction. It refers to the physical or psychological proximity between people. This idea can be translated formally and abstractly in relation to the larger concept.

Adjacent Connection Nearness

Parti & Design Language 3.3

Building on the conceptual foundation and programmatic analysis, the parti development seeks to translate conceptual elements into an overal system of spatial organization. These ideas then translate to a smaller scale, providing insight into interior details and strategies of concept integration.

Parti Development

Utilizing these three sub-concepts and their correlating visual representations, the final parti incapsulates and reinforces the concept of “Symbiosis”. Curvilinear forms contrast to the regularity of the exisiting building structure, creating a sense of balance and harmony. In combination these visual elements help to form distinct areas and pockets of space which can be expressed throughout the design.

Possible Variations

Break Down

Final Parti

Balance

Harmony

Contrast

Auspicious Reciprocal

Movement

Rhythm

Repetition

Propinquous

Cluster

Centrality

Overlap

Design Language

Structure

The heavy linear elements which create a structural support system within the building act in contrast and harmony with the massed forms, creating visual connections and separations between pockets of space.

Form

In order to help fulfill the goal of creating supportive and engaging environments throughout the building, the form will elude to these ideas of comfort and safety by outwardly expressing masses and voids, creating contrast and shadow, as well as pockets of recluse and variety of choice for users.

Design Language (cont.)

Details

In conjunction with the ideas of support and comfort, the elements within the space will also embody the ideas of reciporcity and exchange, creating dynamic relationships through repetition and linear elements which become visual cues of directionality and movement

Lighting

Light within the space will reflect the ideas of balance and contrast as well, creating a variety of atmospheres and helping to indicate levels of activity. Light will also act as a source of energy and inspiration, encouraging engagement and interaction amougst residents and their environments.

Design Language (cont.)

Color

Color within the space will act as a cue to indicate levels of activity and engagement, creating a dynamic relationship between energizing and calming hues. Vibrant and warm hues will help to encourage interaction and stimulate users in communal and active areas, while also creating contrast and harmony with the introduction of subdued and calming tones in areas of seclusion.

Zoning 3.4

The building’s zoning process critically evaluates the spatial relationships between different zones, including public and private areas, social and supportive spaces, circulation paths, and spaces designed for restoration and collaboration. This evaluation ensures that each zone is strategically located and designed to optimize functionality, user experience, and overall

efficiency. By carefully defining these relationships, architects can create a harmonious and well-balanced environment that meets the diverse needs of the building’s users while enhancing its overall functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Entry

The ground floor of the building will remain as retail and restaraunt space, while being re-worked in order to create a new main entry to the residential spaces. On this level, residents

will have quick and easy access to the mail boxes and bike storage as they enter the building.

Communal Floor

The second floor of the building integrates an abundance of communal areas which help to encourage the formation of relationships through frequent interactions and resident

Communal

Shared Kitchen

Shared Dining

Private Work

engagement. The most active and social zones are highlighted by the curvilinear form which contrasts with the regularity of the other spaces.

Social Lounge Management Offices & Maintenance Storage

Reception & Lobby

Vertical Circulation Grand Stair

Collaborative Work

Elevators

Residential Floors

Within the building, the 3rd and 5th floors will be mainly comprised of private units, with the addition of a social lounge space. Repeating the same layout and zoning will help to

create consistency throughout while still providing easy access to social zones on each level.

Vertical Circulation

Grand Stair

Private Units

Social Lounge

Elevators

The 4th floor equally prioritizes private unit space as well as communal space, ensuring that all residents may easily access social, working and activity zones. On each floor these

social zones relate to the grand stair, creating a sense of hierarchy and importance for these areas.

Vertical Circulation Grand Stair

Private Units

Social Lounge

Collaborative Work Activity

Elevators

Diagramming

In order to further emphasize communal and shared spaces, all private units exist on the upper three levels. Units are places in order to allow for maximum natural light, as well as focus views from social zones to the east and south.

VERTICAL CIRCULATION

Final Design

4.1 Site & Communal Floor

4.2 Residential Floors

4.3 Residential Units

The design of a multi-unit residence for emerging adults focuses on fostering community and reducing feelings of isolation while providing essential amenities for health and wellbeing. The layout and amenities of such a residence are carefully planned to encourage social interaction and create a sense of belonging among residents. Common spaces, such as lounges, kitchens, and outdoor areas, are designed to facilitate casual encounters and community activities.

Additionally, the residence includes amenities that promote health and wellbeing, such as fitness centers, green spaces, and access to mental health resources. Overall, the design prioritizes creating a supportive and inclusive environment that meets the unique needs of emerging adults as they transition into independent living.

Site & Communal Floor

Exterior site and facade development, entry and circulation, community spaces and amenities

Site Development

The existing lot on which the building sits presents exciting opportunities for outdoor development. While much of the existing parking space will be retained, it will be transformed into vibrant greenspaces and small covered and open social areas, revitalizing the area and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the building. The orientation of these spaces and their relationship to the extended context and public transportation are carefully considered, allowing the new building to seamlessly integrate itself within the city.

Moreover, the outdoor development creates opportunities for connection to retail, entertainment, and food establishments. By strategically designing the outdoor spaces to include pedestrian pathways and seating areas, the building can foster a sense of community and encourage residents and visitors to explore nearby shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This integration of outdoor spaces with the surrounding urban environment not only enhances the vibrancy of the area but also creates a dynamic and inviting atmosphere for all.

Site Development (con’t.)

Historic vs. Modern

N - W

Maintain Historic Facades

The north and west facades of the building will remain in their current state, maintaining its historical presence. These two side of the building also offer entry into the commercial spaces which reside on the ground floor of the building, as well as a connection to the local train car.

S - E New Residential Entry

The SE corner of the building is used to create a modern entry into the residential spaces. This corner also creates a spatial connection to the exterior residential patio and green space. These sides of the building’s lot also feature large parking areas for residents and customers, as well as access to public bus transit.

Resident Patio

Access to Outdoor Space

The connected outdoor space is designed to provide residents with seamless access to the exterior environment, encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors and stay connected with nature. This space also promotes pet ownership by offering ample green space for

pets to roam and play, enhancing the overall pet-friendly atmosphere of the building. This outdoor area supports a wide range of activities for residents and the extended community, serving as a versatile space for gatherings, recreational activities, and social events.

Greenspace

Shaded Patio

Dining tables

Firepit Patio

Garden Seating

This exterior patio space plays a pivotal role in fulfilling the goals of community and support while providing access to amenities. It offers a diverse range of seating opportunities and gathering places strategically placed to encourage socialization among residents. The design incorporates elements like comfortable seating arrangements,

shaded areas. Additionally, providing access to outdoor amenities directly contributes to nourishing residents’ health and wellbeing by offering spaces for relaxation, exercise, and connection with nature. Overall, the patio serves as a central hub for community engagement and promotes a sense of belonging among residents.

Main Entry

Custom Details

The main resident entry into the building is designed to be welcoming and visually striking, featuring an overhead canopy made of perforated painted steel. This canopy not only provides shelter but also serves as a design element that draws users and outer community members into the building. Additionally, the exterior bike storage area is strategically designed to hint at the design language of the interior of the building, incorporating

colored textured glass that reflects the aesthetic and materials used throughout the interior spaces. This thoughtful continuity in design creates a cohesive and harmonious transition from the exterior to the interior, enhancing the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.

Canopy Detail

Resident Bike Storage

The garden space is designed to promote positive health and wellbeing by incorporating plant life and creating a natural environment within the building. This green space offers residents a peaceful retreat from urban life, providing opportunities for relaxation and connection with nature. Additionally, the inclusion of

bike storage as an added amenity promotes independence and healthy habits among residents. By encouraging alternative modes of transportation, such as cycling, the building supports environmentally friendly practices and contributes to a healthier lifestyle for its residents.

Facade Development

Creating Identity

The south facade of the building features energizing painted steel addition which hope to create a welcoming atmosphere from the outside. This facade also integrates a large graphic, relating back to the identity and goals of the design. These features hope to create a sense of place and feeling of belonging withing the larger community.

Brand Development

Zoning Overview

Program Locations

The design balances an efficient layout of residential units which are supported by social zones and communal amenities, creating harmony between “we” and “us”.

3-5: RESIDENTIAL

Mainly residential units, supported by unique spatial typologies which promote socialization.

2: COMMUNAL

Providing an abundance of amenities and social spaces to encourage the formation of relationships, and nourish resident well-being.

1: ENTRY & COMMERCIAL

Creating new residential entry, as well as maintaining commercial facades, bringing money and the outer community into the building.

Calming

Resident Entry

The ground floor of the building remains mostly retail and restaraunt space, while the south-east corner has been reworked in order to create a new main entry to the residential spaces. On this level, residents will have quick and easy access to the mail boxes and bike storage as they enter the building, as well as easy navigation to the elevators which provided accesibility for all users.

Graphic Signage

Details

... will embody the ideas of reciporcity and exchange, creating dynamic relationships through repetition and linear elements which become visual cues of directionality and movement

Branding

The mail storage space on the ground level serves as a secure location for residents to access their deliveries, providing convenience and peace of mind. In addition to its functional purpose, this space is designed to facilitate casual passing interactions between residents, fostering a sense of community and connection. The

inclusion of a small seating area further promotes short stays and waiting within this area, encouraging residents to linger and engage with each other. Overall, this space is more than just a mail storage area; it is a social hub that contributes to the overall liveliness and sense of community within the building.

Grand Stair

Skylight

Hanging Plants

Colored Acrylic

Backlit Acrylic Wall

The central stair not only serves as a functional element but also as a focal point that draws users through each level, enhancing the overall circulation and connectivity of the space. Its design creates an energizing presence, adding a dynamic visual element to the interior. Additionally, the stair integrates biophilic elements, such as

planters at each level, which allow for hanging plants to cascade down, creating a natural and calming ambiance. The distortion of natural light from the skylight above by these plants adds a sense of warmth and vitality to the space further fostering a sense of community and connection with nature.

Facade Development

Levels of Activity

In section, the strategic arrangement of spaces within the building’s program ensures that the most active areas are distributed across different levels, promoting easy access for residents at all times. This thoughtful layout not only enhances the functionality of the space but also encourages social interaction and engagement among residents.

By dispersing highly active and social zones throughout the building, the design creates a dynamic environment where residents can easily connect and interact with each other. These zones are carefully positioned to respond to and relate back to the central stair, which serves as a unifying element that fosters connections between levels and between residents. The result is a vibrant and interconnected community that encourages socialization and a sense of belonging.

Vertical Connections

Circulation & Accessibility

Each level of the building is designed to be easily accessible to all users, ensuring convenience and safety. Residents and visitors have the option to use the elevators for quick vertical transport, the grand central stair for a more scenic route, or the fire stair in cases of emergencies, providing multiple means of vertical circulation. To further enhance accessibility and wayfinding, each vertical core of circulation is strategically arranged

and highlighted by graphic signage. These signage elements not only serve as visual cues but also provide clear and intuitive directions, ensuring that users can easily navigate their way through the building, especially in emergency situations. This thoughtful design approach prioritizes user safety and comfort while promoting efficient vertical circulation throughout the building.

Communal Floor

Big Ideas

As stated earlier, the second floor is where the communal spaces exist, creating an a contrast to the calm residential floors above. Social and active areas are highlighted by warm vibrant colors through furniture and details., while the parti is reiforced through curvilinear space separating elements, which serve a variety of functional uses.

Parti Overlay

Communal Floor

Fostering Relationships

The communal floor integrates a variety of active and social spaces, hoping to provide residents with a “third place” type of atmosphere. The design strives to energize and engage residents, encouraging them to interact with one another frequently, and establish connections

for mutual support. Custom seating is integrated within the main social lounge in order to integrate biophilic elements, and create a playful yet efficient layout.

Reception

Engaging Users

The reception desk is strategically located to be directly visible from both the stairs and the elevator, serving as a focal point that guides and welcomes new users to the building. This positioning ensures easy navigation and creates a sense of arrival and orientation upon entering the space. The reception area is designed to be inviting and functional, with branded signage that reinforces the identity of the space.

Additionally, an illuminated ceiling plane wraps around the reception area, connecting it visually to related spaces and enhancing its prominence within the overall design. This not only serves a practical purpose by providing ample lighting but also creates a cohesive and engaging environment that ties this area to the rest of the building. Overall, this approach enhances the user experience by providing clear wayfinding and a welcoming entry point to the building.

Communal Floor RCP

Ceiling Development

LUMENWERX

VIA 4 SURFACE

BLACK FINISH

LUMENWERX

CURVIA 4 RECESSED

Reinforcing the Parti

TURF ACOUSTIC PANELS

REED - 6” GRADIENT MULTICOLOR

The lowered ceiling plane which covers the built space on this floor helps the reinforces the parti and connect the primary spaces and create a range of lighting opportunites.

Lighting

...will reflect the ideas of balance and contrast, creating a variety of atmospheres and helping to indicate levels of activity... will also act as a source of energy and inspiration, encouraging engagement and interaction amongst residents and their environments.

Social Lounge

+ Resident Gym

The social lounge connects directly to the resident gym, which allows natural light in through colored acrylic openings. The lounge and gym spaces help to fulfill multiple of the project’s goals. As this area is

directly tied to the reception and grand stair, it serves as a moment of socialization and brief gathering before exploring and tranversing through the adjacent spaces.

Form

...the form will elude to these ideas of comfort and safety by outwardly expressing masses and voids, creating contrast and shadow, as well as pockets of recluse and variety of choice for users.

The social lounge is thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming environment where residents can socialize, relax, and enjoy a unique communal space. Its layout and furnishings are carefully selected to encourage interaction and create a comfortable atmosphere for residents to gather and connect. Additionally, providing the gym as an additional amenity for

residents not only promotes physical fitness but also supports their mental health and overall wellbeing. This inclusion reflects a holistic approach to community living, where residents can not only socialize but also prioritize their health and wellness within the convenience of their living environment.

Active Lounge

Encouraging Interactions

Structure

...heavy linear elements which create a structural support system within the building act in contrast and harmony with the massed forms, creating visual connections and separations between pockets of space.

These spaces provide an additional amenity and outlet for restorative and energizing play, offering residents a variety of ways to engage and unwind. By fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for socialization, these spaces not only create connections

but also contribute to improving residents’ overall mental and physical health.

Game Room

Infusing Energy + Play

Within this area, a separation is created with colored glass paneling, offering both acoustic privacy and a visually distinct boundary. This design choice allows for a degree of separation without completely isolating the space, maintaining a sense of openness and connectivity within the communal floor. Additionally, the space is infused with energizing elements, such as vibrant colors, dynamic lighting, and engaging graphic signage,

creating a stimulating and inviting atmosphere. By integrating this space within the communal floor, there is an opportunity not only for developing relationships between residents but also for drawing in the outer community, fostering a sense of inclusivity and community engagement.

Cove Lighting

Acoustic Tiles

Colored Glass Panel

This space takes into consideration both visual and acoustic elements to create a comfortable and functional environment for various activities and socialization. By carefully balancing these elements, the room is designed to cater to a range of uses, from lively social gatherings to

more intimate conversations or quiet individual activities. This versatility adds another dimension to the overall design, providing residents with a variety of experiences within the communal area.

Communal Laundry

Intentional Atmospheres

Vanity Details

Graphic Signage

Folding Table

Tile & Terrazzo

The communal laundry space not only provides a convenient amenity within the building but also helps to lower overall costs for residents by eliminating the need for individual laundry appliances in each unit. This shared space creates a unique opportunity for spontaneous interactions among residents,

fostering a sense of community and connection. Additionally, the design of the laundry room ensures a healthy and inviting atmosphere, making the chore of laundry more enjoyable and contributing to the overall wellbeing of residents.

Communal Dining

Energizing Experiences

Custom Built-in Booths

Wall Pattern & Lighting

Colored Glass Partitions

The communal dining space not only offers residents the chance to interact with each other but also provides a welcoming environment for community members, family, and friends to join in. This amenity serves as a hub for gatherings, socializing, and celebrations, enriching the sense

of community and creating lasting memories for all who partake in these shared experiences.

Coffee Bar

Providing Nourishment

Within the communal dining area, the design incorporates a “coffee bar” that seamlessly integrates into and complements the curvilinear form of this floor. This area is thoughtfully furnished with a few select pieces that strike a balance between warmth and energy, enhancing the overall ambiance. These furniture selections are also used in other

Furniture Selections

HIGHTOWER

HARI FAMILY

spaces throughout the building, creating a cohesive design language and reinforcing a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents. Additionally, the “coffee bar” serves as a focal point for social interaction, providing a casual setting for residents to gather, chat, and enjoy a cup of coffee together, further enriching the communal dining experience.

COUNTER HEIGHT STOOL

OFS

BLUEPRINT

DINING CHAIR

HIGHTOWER

NEST FAMILY

DINING TABLE SYSTEM

This coffee shop like space emphasizes the opportunity for drawing in the outer community, while also providing an additional way of brinding money into the building. The addition of this amenity also gives residents easy access

to a quick snack or drink at their convenience, creating a chance for residents to connect and be drawn down to this level.

To-Go Counter

Self-Help Station

The design also integrates a hall of private working conference rooms, providing residents with quiet spaces for meetings or focused work. These rooms are closely connected to a self-help station, offering resources

such as printing services, stationery supplies, and community bulletin boards. This setup not only enhances the functionality of the space but also fosters a sense of productivity and collaboration among residents.

TURF ACOUSTIC PANELS

REED - 6” GRADIENT MULTICOLOR

This area also includes a to-go counter, offering residents a convenient option for quick and efficient visits to the coffee shop for their daily caffeine fix. This setup not only saves time but also contributes to costeffectiveness and affordability for residents. Additionally, the nearby

self-help station provides a range of resources, including copying, printing, computer access, and office supplies, further enhancing the convenience and utility of this amenity for residents.

To-Go Counter

Promoting Collabortaion

The communal floor also features a large collaborative open working area, offering residents and the community another seating and space typology to utilize. This open area is designed with a modular furniture family that serves to divide

the space into functional zones while maintaining accessibility to the exterior views, creating a dynamic and flexible environment for work or social activities.

HIGHTOWER FOURLIKES FAMILY BOOTH SYSTEM

This area serves residents by providing them with a comfortable and versatile space to work, socialize with friends or colleagues, and immerse themselves in an energizing environment. The design of the ceiling plane is carefully crafted to integrate acoustic panels and linear light fixtures, ensuring that the space

meets the acoustic and lighting needs of its users. These design elements enhance the functionality and comfort of the space, creating a conducive environment for productivity and social interactions.

Residential Floors

Residential spaces overview, resident corridors, and social, active and quiet spaces

3rd & 5th Floors

Within the building, the 3rd and 5th floors are layed out essentially the same, with the exception of the stair position. These floors are primarily residential space, with the addition of

some supporting social zones. These areas hope to encourage activity and time spent outside of individual units, creating unique and energizing spaces to draw use.

5th Floor

Increasing Socialization 4th Floor

The 4th floor is designed to equally prioritize private unit space and communal areas, ensuring that all residents have easy access to social, relaxation, and dining spaces. In addition to these amenities, this floor reintroduces the game room typology, providing an additional

Resident Social Lounge

space for residents to engage in recreational activities and socialize. This thoughtful balance of private and communal spaces enhances the overall livability of the floor, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of its residents.

Resident Corridors

Unique Typologies

Unit

Numbering

Temporary Seating

Built-In Planter Seating

The residential corridors are designed to enhance user experience by introducing private phone booths, offering residents a secluded and quiet space for phone calls or focused work. Additionally, the corridors feature built-in planter walls that reintroduce biophilic

elements, contributing to the wellbeing of residents by bringing nature indoors. These areas are strategically located to create a welcoming “front porch” space within the building, encouraging casual and passing interactions among residents and fostering a sense of community.

Quiet Lounge

Spaces of Relaxation

These small relaxing lounges are designed to create a cohesive aesthetic with the communal floor, featuring similar design elements such as wall paneling, signage, colored glass, and cove lighting. This

design continuity not only ties the spaces together visually but also creates a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents as they move throughout the building.

OFS LOEWENSTEIN HINCHADA SOFA + OTTOMAN SYSTEM

These quiet lounges are designed to provide residents with a comforting and rejuvenating space of refuge within the bustling environment of the building. Residents are invited to relax, socialize, and come together as a group, fostering a sense of community and belonging. In addition to serving user wellbeing, these areas are instrumental in promoting

inter-building relationships by accommodating different social styles and preferences. Whether residents seek a quiet retreat or a space to connect with others, these lounges cater to a variety of needs, enhancing the overall living experience for all residents..

Resident Dining

Community Atmosphere

Cove Lighting

Wall Pattern

Bar Seating Planters

Each of the residential floors features a dining lounge, providing residents with a dedicated space to gather, dine, and share in the experience of communal living. The design of these lounges incorporates elements that engage residents and create a welcoming atmosphere of sharing and companionship. These spaces

are more than just dining areas; they are designed to be social hubs where residents can connect, interact, and form meaningful relationships with their neighbors. The thoughtful design elements and layout of these dining lounges contribute to the overall sense of community and belonging within the building.

Resident Game Room

Creating Atmosphere

Color

...will act as a cue to indicate levels of activity and engagement, creating a dynamic relationship between energizing and calming hues. Vibrant and warm hues will help to encourage interaction and stimulate users in communal and active areas,

while also creating contrast and harmony with the introduction of subdued and calming tones in areas of seclusion.

The game room is reintroduced on this floor, offering residents a dedicated space for various activities while maintaining acoustic and visual separation from other areas. This separation ensures that residents can enjoy their activities without disturbing others or

feeling overcrowded. These spaces play a crucial role in nourishing residents’ mental and physical health by providing opportunities for recreation and exercise. Additionally, the game room stimulates social activity, encouraging residents to interact, compete, and bond.

Active Seating

Creating Connections

The fourth floor introduces another unique seating and gathering typology, featuring suspended hanging chairs that provide a playful and unconventional seating option. This area is characterized by a gridded ceiling plane that adds a sense of structure and visual interest

to the space, while the integration of organic carpet patterns softens the overall aesthetic. Together, these design elements create a dynamic and inviting environment that encourages residents to relax, socialize, and enjoy a moment of respite from their daily routines.

This active lounge seating area is designed to create a dynamic space that encourages movement and a variety of activities for residents. It takes into consideration the diverse needs of residents, providing options for relaxation, socializing, or engaging in more active pursuits. By promoting community relationships and positive

wellbeing, this space serves as a focal point for residents to connect and interact with each other. Its location, closely connected to each residential floor and the grand stair, ensures easy access and encourages residents to use the space frequently, enhancing the overall livability and sense of community within the building.

1 Bedroom Unit

Creating Consistency

In order to create units of varying sizes while maintaining a level of consistency, the design incorporates spatial modules that can be arranged in various configurations. These modules allow for flexibility in unit layout, accommodating different spatial needs and preferences. Additionally, units are meticulously designed to maximize usable space, utilizing the thickness of the column structure to create opportunities for storage and functional elements. This approach ensures that each unit is efficiently planned and optimized for livability, regardless of its size or layout.

2 Bedroom Unit

Layout Options

Due to the condition of existing windows and door placements, the design team created three variations of the two-bedroom unit, offering slight variations in available options for residents. This approach not only accommodates the existing structural constraints but also provides residents with a choice of layouts that suit their preferences and needs. Each variation is carefully designed to optimize space and functionality, ensuring that residents can enjoy a comfortable and personalized living experience.

Layout 2A

Layout 2B

Layout 2C

3 Bedroom Unit

Providing Storage

The 3-bedroom units are designed with an additional second bathroom, enhancing the space for shared living arrangements. Similar to the other units, these layouts utilize the same basic space modules, ensuring consistency in design and maximizing efficiency. The columns within the units are strategically used to create storage opportunities, optimizing the use of space and minimizing clutter. Additionally, both the 2 and 3-bedroom units include dining and entry spaces, making them suitable for small gatherings and socialization. These features enhance the overall livability of the units, providing residents with comfortable and functional spaces for both everyday living and entertaining.

3B

3A

Layout

Layout

Unit Interior

Comfort & Independence

Within the units themselves, the design strives to connect users to their own personal space as well as back to the greater community that the building creates. By bringing in materials, colors and finishes which appear elsewhere in the building, residents can build a sense of place and belonging within the complex.

FullUnit(2Bedroom)

The individual units are designed to fulfill each of the five goals of the project, aiming to promote not only individual success but also collective harmony and growth within the community. Drawing inspiration from the communal spaces, these units are thoughtfully crafted to create a seamless and symbiotic relationship with all areas of the building. Each

unit is designed to complement the overall design language and function of the communal areas, ensuring a sense of continuity and connectivity throughout the building. This approach not only enhances the living experience for residents but also contributes to a cohesive and vibrant community environment.

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3.1 Code Review

3.2 Literature Review Sources

2021 International Building Code

Ch. 3 | Occupancy Classification and

Use

Section 302: Occupancy Classification and Use Designation

302.1 General

Occupancy classification is the formal designation of the primary purpose of the building, structure or portion thereof. Structures shall be classified into one or more of the occupancy groups specified in this section based on the nature of the hazards and risks to building occupants generally associated with the intended purpose of the building or structure. An area, room or space that is intended to be occupied at different times for different purposes shall comply with all applicable requirements associated with such potential multipurpose. Structures containing multiple occupancy groups shall comply with Section 508. Where a structure is proposed for a purpose that is not specified in this section, such structure shall be classified in the occupancy it most nearly resembles based on the fire safety and relative hazard. Occupied roofs shall be classified in the group that the occupancy most nearly resembles, according to the fire safety and relative hazard, and shall comply with Section 503.1.4 .

(1) Assembly (see Section 303): Groups A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4 and A-5.

(2) Business (see Section 304): Group B.

(8) Residential (see Section 310): Groups R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4.

Section 303: Assembly Group A

303.1 Assembly Group A

Assembly Group A occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or portion thereof, for the gathering of persons for purposes such as civic, social or religious functions: recreation, food or drink consumption or awaiting transportation.

303.1.2 Small assembly spaces

The following rooms and spaces shall not be classified as Assembly occupancies:

1. A room or space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.

2. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is less than 750 square feet (70 m2 ) in area and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.

303.3 Assembly Group A-2

Group A-2 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for food and/or drink consumption including, but not limited to: Banquet halls, restaurants, cafeterias and similar dining facilities (including associated commercial kitchens).

303.4 Assembly Group A-3

Group A-3 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for worship, recreation or amusement and other assembly uses not classified elsewhere in Group A including, but not limited to: Greenhouses for the conservation and exhibition of plants that provide public access.

Section

304:

Business Group B

304.1 Business Group B

Business Group B occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for office, professional or service-type transactions, including storage or records and accounts.

Section

310:

Residential Group R

310.1 Residential Group R

Residential Group R includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an Institutional Group I or when not regulated by International Residential Code.

310.3 Residential Group R-2

Residential Group R-2 occupancies containing sleeping units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, including: Apartment Houses, Congregate living facilities (non-transient) with more than 16 occupants, Boarding houses (non-transient), Convents, Dormitories, Fraternities and sororities, Monasteries, Hotels (nontransient), Live/ work units, Motels (non-transient), Vacation timeshare properties.

Ch. 4 | Special Detailed Requirements Based on Occupancy and Use

Section 420: Groups I-1, R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4

420.1 General

Occupancies in Groups I-1, R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4 shall comply with the provisions of 420.1 through 420.10 and other applicable provisions of this code.

420.2 Separation Walls

Walls separating dwelling units in the same building, walls separating sleeping units in the same building and walls separating dwelling or sleeping units from other occupancies contiguous to them in the same building shall be constructed as fire partitions in accordance with Section 708.

420.3 Horizontal Separation

Floor assemblies separating dwelling units in the same buildings, floor assemblies separating sleeping units in the same building and floor assemblies separating dwelling or sleeping units from other occupancies contiguous to them in the same building shall be constructed as horizontal assemblies in accordance with Section 711.

420.4 Automatic Sprinkler System

Group R occupancies shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8. Quickresponse or residential automatic sprinklers shall be installed in accordance with 903.3.2.

420.5 Fire Alarm Systems and Smoke Alarms

Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be provided in Group I-1, R-1 and R-2 occupancies in accordance with Sections 907.2.6, 907.2.8

and 907.2.9, respectively. Single- or multiplestation smoke alarms shall be provided in Groups I-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4 in accordance with Section 907.2.10.

420.9 Group R Cooking Facilities

In Group R occupancies, cooking appliances used for domestic cooking operations shall be in accordance with Section 917.2 of the Mechanical Code.

Ch. 5 | General Building Heights and Areas

Section 502: Building Address

502.1 Address Identification

New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of private road and the building address cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

Section 503: General Building Height and Area Limitations

503.1 General

Unless otherwise specifically modified in Chapter 4 and this chapter, building height, number of stories and building area shall not exceed the limits specified in Sections 504 and 506 based on the type of construction as determined by Section 602 and the occupancies as determined by Section 302 except as modified hereafter. Building Height, number of stories and building area provisions shall be applied independently. For the purposes of determining area limitations, height limitations and type of construction, each portion of a building separated by one or more fire walls complying with Section 706 shall be considered to be a separate building.

Section 504: Building Height and Number of Stories

504.1 General

The height, in feet, and the number of stories of a building shall be determined based on the type of construction, occupancy classification and whether there is an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout the building.

504.2 Mixed Occupancy

In a building containing mixed occupancies in accordance with Section 508, no individual occupancy shall exceed the height and number of story limits specified in this section for the applicable occupancies.

504.3 Height in Feet

The maximum height, in feet, of a building shall not exceed the limits specified in Table 504.3.

Section 506: Building Area

506.1 General

The floor area of a building shall be determined based on the type of construction, occupancy classification, whether there is an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout the building and the amount of building frontage on public way or open space.

506.2.4 Mixed-occupancy, Multistory Buildings

Each story of a mixed-occupancy building with more than one story above grade plane shall individually comply with the applicable requirements of Section 508.1. For buildings with more than three stories above plane, the total building area shall be such that the aggregate sum of the ratios of the actual area of each story divided by the allowable area of such stories, determined in accordance with Equation 5-3 based on the applicable provisions of Section 508.1, shall not exceed three.

Section 508: Mixed Use and Occupancy

508.1 General

Each portion of a building shall be individually classified in accordance with Section 302 point one. Where a building contains more than one occupancy group, the building or portion thereof shall comply with the applicable provisions of section 508.2, 508.3 or 508.4, or a combination of these

sections.

508.4 Separated Occupancies

Buildings or portions of buildings that comply with the provisions of this section shall be considered as separated occupancies.

508.4.1 Occupancy Classification

Separated occupancies shall be individually classified in accordance with Section 302.1. Each separated space shall comply with this code based on the occupancy classification of that portion of the building.

508.4.2 Allowable Building Area

In each story, the building area shall be such that the sum of the ratios of the actual building area of each separated occupancy shall not exceed 1.

508.4.3 Allowable Height

Each separated occupancy shall comply with the building height limitations based on the type of construction of the building in accordance with Section 503.1

508.4.4 Separation

Individual occupancies shall be separated from adjacent occupancies in accordance with Table 508.4.

508.4.4.1 Construction

Required separations shall be fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both, so as to completely separate adjacent occupancies.

Section 510: Special Provisions

510.1 General

The provisions in the Sections 510.2 through 510.9 shall permit the use of special conditions that are exempt from, or modify, the specific requirements of this chapter regarding the allowable building heights and areas of buildings based on the occupancy classification and type of construction, provided the special condition complies with the provisions specified in this section for such condition and other applicable requirements of this code. The provisions of Section 510.2 through 510.8 are to be considered independent and separate from each other.

510.5 Group R-1 and R-2 Buildings of Type IIIA Construction

For buildings of Type IIIA construction in Groups R-1 and R-2, the maximum allowable

height in Table 504.3 shall be increased by 10 feet (3048 mm) and the maximum allowable number of stories in Table 504.4 shall be increased by one where the firstfloor assembly above the basement has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 3 hours and the floor area is subdivided by 2-hour fireresistance-rated fire walls into areas of not more than 3,000 square feet (279 m2).

Ch. 6 | Types of Construction

Section 602: Construction Classification

602.1 General

Buildings and structures erected or to be erected, altered or extended in height or area shall be classified in one of the five construction types defined in Sections 602.2 through 602.5. The building elements shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that specified in Table 601 and exterior walls shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that specified in Table 602. Where required to have a fire-resistance rating by Table 601, building elements shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 703.2. The protection of openings, ducts and air transfer openings in building elements shall not be required by other provisions of this code.

602.1.1 Minimum Requirements

A building or portion thereof shall not be required to conform to the details of a type of construction higher than that type which meets the minimum requirements based on occupancy even though certain features of such a building actually.

602.2 Types I and II

Types I and II construction are those types of construction in which the building elements listed in Table 601 are of noncombustible materials,except as permitted in Section 603 and elsewhere in this code.

602.3 Type III

Type III construction is that type of construction in which the exterior walls are of noncombustible materials and the interior building elements are of any material permitted by this code. Fire-retardant-treated wood framing complying with Section 2303.2 shall be permitted within exterior wall assemblies of a

Ch. 7 | Fire and Smoke Protection Features

Section 703:

General

703.2 Fire-Resistance Ratings and Fire Tests

The fire-resistance rating of building elements, components or assemblies shall be determined in accordance with the test procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263 or in accordance with Section 703.3. The fireresistance rating of penetrations and fireresistant joint systems shall be determined in accordance with Sections 714 and 715, respectively.

703.2.1 Nonsymmetrical Wall Construction

Interior walls and partitions of nonsymmetrical construction shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire-resistance rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with ASTM E119 or UL 263. Where evidence is furnished to show that the wall was tested with the least fireresistant side exposed to the furnace, subject to acceptance of the building official, the wall need not be subjected to tests from the opposite side (see Section 705.5 for exterior walls).

703.2 Exterior Bearing Walls

In determining the fire-resistance rating of exterior bearing walls, compliance with the ASTM E119 or UL 263 criteria for un exposed surface temperature rise and ignition of cotton waste due to passage of flame or gasses is required only for a period of time corresponding to the required fire-resistance rating of an exterior non bearing wall with the same fire separation distance, and in a building of the same group. Where the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this exception exceeds the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263, the fire exposure time period, water pressure and application duration criteria for the hose stream test of ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall be based on the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this section.

703.4 Automatic Sprinklers

Under the prescriptive fire resistance requirements of this code, the fire-resistance rating of a building element, component or assembly shall be established without the 2-hour rating or less.

use of automatic sprinklers or any other fire suppression system being incorporated as part of the assembly tested in accordance with the fire exposure, procedures and acceptance criteria specified in ASTM E119 or UL 263. However, this section shall not prohibit or limit the duties and powers of the building official allowed by Sections 104.10 and 104.11.

703.5 Non Combustibility Tests

The tests indicated in Sections 703.5.1 and 703.5.2 shall serve as criteria for acceptance of building materials as set forth in Sections 602.2, 602.3 and 602.4 in Type I, II, III and IV construction. The term “noncombustible” does not apply to the flame spread characteristics of interior finish or trim materials. A material shall not be classified as a noncombustible building construction material if it is subject to an increase in combustibility or flame spread beyond the limitations herein established through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric conditions.

Section 704: Fire-resistance Ratings of Structural Members

704.1 Requirements

The fire-resistance ratings of structural members and assemblies shall comply with this section and the requirements for the type of construction as specified in Table 601. The fire-resistance ratings shall be not less than the required for the fireresistance-rated assemblies supported by the structural members. Exception: Fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and horizontal assemblies as provided in Sections 707.5, 708.4, 709.4, and 711.2, respectively.

704.2 Column Protection

Where columns are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance rating, the entire column shall be provided individual encasement protection by protecting it on all sides for the full column height, including connections to other structural members, with materials having the required fire-resistance rating. Where the column extends through a ceiling, the encasement protection shall be continuous from the top of the foundation of floor/ ceiling assembly below through the ceiling space to the top of the column.

704.3 Protection of the Primary Structural Frame other than Columns

Members of the primary structural frame other than columns that are required to have

protection to achieve a fire-resistance ratings and support more than two floors or one floor and roof or support a load-bearing wall or a non-load bearing wall more than two stories high, shall be provided individual encasement protection by protecting them on all sides for the full length, including connections to other structural members, with materials having the required fire-resistance ratings.

704.4 Protection of Secondary Members

Secondary members that are required to have protection to achieve a fireresistance rating shall be protected by individual encasement protection.

704.4.2 Horizontal Assemblies

Horizontal assemblies are permitted to be protected with a membrane or ceiling where the membrane or ceiling provides the required fire-resistance rating and is installed in accordance with Section 711.

704.5 Truss Protection

The required thickness and construction of fire-resistance-rated assemblies enclosing trusses shall be based on the results of full-scale tests or combinations of tests on truss components or on approved calculations based on such tests that satisfactorily demonstrate that the assembly has the required fire resistance.

704.6 Attachments to Structural Members

The edges of lugs, brackets, rivets and bolt head attached to structural members shall be permitted to extend to within 1 inch (25 mm) of the surface of the fire protection.

704.7 Reinforcing

Thickness of protection for concrete or masonry reinforcement shall be measured to the outside of the reinforcement except that stirrups and spiral reinforcement ties are permitted to project not more than 0.5-inch (12.7 mm) into the protection.

704.8 Embedments and Enclosures

Pipes, wires, conduits, ducts or other service facilities shall not be embedded in the required fire protective covering of a structural member that is required to be individually encased.

704.10 Exterior Structural Members

Load-bearing structural members located within the exterior walls or on the outside of a building or structure shall be provided with the highest fire-resistance rating as determined in accordance with

the following: 1. As required by Table 601 for the type of building element based on the type of construction of the building 2. As required by Table 601 for exterior bearing walls based on the type of construction.

Section 706: Fire Walls

706.1 General

Fire walls shall be constructed in accordance with Sections 706.2 through 706.11. The extent and location of such fire walls shall provide a complete separation. Where a fire wall separates occupancies that are required to be separated by a fire barrier wall, the most restrictive requirements of each separation shall apply.

706.2 Structural Stability

Fire walls shall be designed and constructed to allow collapse of the structure on either side without collapse of the wall under fire conditions. Fire walls designed and constructed in accordance with NFPA 221 shall be deemed to comply with this section.

706.3 Materials

Fire walls shall be of any approved noncombustible materials.

706.4 Fire-resistance Rating

Fire walls shall have the fire-resistance rating of not less than the required by Table 706.4.

706.8 Openings

Each opening through a fire wall shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 and shall not exceed 156 square feet. The aggregate width of openings at any floor level shall not exceed 25 percent of the length of the wall.

706.9 Penetrations

Penetrations of fire walls shall comply with Section 714.

Section 707: Fire Barriers

707.1 General

Fire barriers installed as required elsewhere in this code or the International Fire Code shall comply with this section 707.2 Materials Fire barriers shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.

707.3 Fire-resistance Rating

The fire-resistance rating shall comply with this section.

707.3.2 Interior Exit Stairway and Ramp

Construction

The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an interior exit stairway or map shall comply with Section 1023.1.

707.3.3 Enclosures for Exit Access Stairways

The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit access stairway or ramp shall comply with Section 713.4

707.3.4 Exit Passageway

The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit passageway shall comply with Section 1024.3

707.3.5 Horizontal Exit

The fire-resistance rating of the separation between building areas connected by a horizontal exit shall comply with Section 1026.1

707.3.7 Incidental Uses

The fire barrier separating incidental uses from other spaces in the building shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 509.

707.3.9 Separated Occupancies

Where the provisions of Section 508.4 are applicable, the fire barrier separating mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 508.4 based on the occupancies being separated.

707.3.10 Fire Areas

The fire barriers, fire walls, horizontal assemblies or combinations thereof separating a single occupancy into different fire areas shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 707.3.10. The fire barriers, fire walls, horizontal assemblies or combinations thereof separating fire areas of mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than the highest value indicated in Table 707.3.10 for the occupancies under consideration.

707.6 Openings

Openings in a fire barrier shall be protected in accordance with Section 716. Openings shall be limited to a maximum aggregate width of 25% of the length of the wall, and the maximum area of any single opening shall not exceed 156 square feet. Openings in enclosures for exit access stairways and ramps, interior exit stairways and ramps and

and exit passageways shall also comply with Sections 1019, 1023.4 and 1024.5, respectively.

Ch. 8 | Interior Finishes

Section 802: General

802.1 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish

The provisions of Section 803 shall limit the allowable fire performance and smoke development of interior wall and ceiling finish materials based on occupancy classification.

802.2 Interior Floor Finish

The provisions of Section 804 shall limit the allowable fire performance of interior floor finish materials based on occupancy classification.

802.3 Decorative Materials and Trim

Decorative materials and trim shall be restricted by combustibility, fire performance or flame propagation performance criteria in accordance with Section 806.

802.4 Applicability

For buildings in flood hazard areas as established in Section 1612.3, interior finishes, trim and decorative materials below the elevation required by Section 1612 shall be flood-damage-resistant materials.

802.5 Application

Combustible materials shall be permitted to be used as finish for walls, ceilings, floors and other interior surfaces of buildings.

802.6 Windows

Show windows in the exterior walls of the first story above grade plane shall be permitted to be of wood or of unprotected metal framing.

Section 803: Wall and Ceiling Finishes

803.1 General

Interior wall and ceiling finish materials shall be classified for fire performance and smoke development in accordance with Section 803.1.1 or 803.1.2, except as shown in Sections 803.1.3 through 803.15. Materials tested in accordance with Section 803.1.1 shall not be required to be tested in accordance with Section 803.1.2.

803.1.1 Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286

Interior wall and ceiling finish materials shall be classified in accordance with NFPA 286 and comply with Section 803.1.1.1. Materials complying with Section 803.1.1.1 shall be considered to also comply with the requirements of Class A.

803.2 Thickness Exemption

Materials having a thickness less than 0.036 inch applied directly to the surface of walls or ceilings shall not be required to be tested.

803.4 Foam Plastics

Foam plastics shall not be used as interior finish except as provided inSection 2603.9. This section shall apply both to exposed foam plastics and to foam plastic used in conjunction with a textile or vinyl facing or cover.

803.5 Textile Wall Coverings

Where used as interior wall finish materials, textile wall coverings, including materials having woven or nonwoven, napped, tufted, looped or similar surface and carpet and similar textile materials, shall be tested in the manner intended for use, using the product mounting system, including adhesive, and shall comply with the requirements of Section 803.1.1, 803.5.1 or 803.5.2.

803.6 Textile Ceiling Coverings

Where used as interior ceiling finish materials, textile ceiling coverings, including materials having woven or nonwoven, napped, tufted, looped or similar surface and carpet and similar textile materials, shall be tested in the manner intended for use, using the product-mounting system, including adhesive, and shall comply with the requirements of Section 803.1.1 or 803.5.2.

803.11 Interior Finish Requirements Based on Occupancy

Interior wall and ceiling finish shall have a flame spread index not greater than that specified in Table 803.13 for the group and location designated. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 and meeting the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, shall be permitted to be used where a Class A classification in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 is required.

Section 804:

Interior Floor Finish

804.1 General

Interior floor finish and floor covering materials shall comply with Sections 804.2 through 804.4.2. Exception: Floor finishes and coverings of a traditional type, such as wood, vinyl, linoleum or terrazzo, and resilient floor covering materials that are not composed of fibers.

804.2 Classification

Interior floor finish and floor covering materials required by Section 804.4.2 to be of Class I or II materials shall be classified in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253. The classification referred to herein corresponds to the classifications determined by ASTM E648 NFPA 253 as follows: Class I, 0.45 watts/cm2 or greater; Class II, 0.22 watts/ cm2 or greater.

804.3 Testing and Identification

Interior floor finish and floor covering materials shall be tested by an agency in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 and identified by a hang tag or other suitable method so as to identify the manufacturer or supplier and style, and shall indicate the interior floor finish or floor covering classification in accordance with Section 804.2. Carpet-type floor coverings shall be tested as proposed for use, including underlayment. Test reports confirming the information provided in the manufacturer’s product identification shall be furnished to the building official upon request.

804.4 Interior Floor Finish Requirements

Interior floor covering materials shall comply with Sections 804.4.1 and 804.4.2 and interior floor finish materials shall comply with Section 804.4.2

Section 806: Decorative Materials and Trim 806.1 General

Combustible decorative materials, other than decorative vegetation, shall comply with Sections 806.2 through 806.8.

806.3 Combustible Decorative Materials

In other than Group I-3, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall comply with Section 806.4 and shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which such materials are attached. Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads and crash pads applied structurally or for decoration, acoustical correction, surface insulation or other purposes shall be considered interior

finish shall comply with Section 803 and shall not be considered decorative materials or furnishings.

Exceptions:

2. In Group R-2 dormitories, within sleeping units and dwelling units, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar decorative materials suspended from walls or ceiling shall not exceed 50 percent of the aggregate wall areas where the building is equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.

3. In Group B and M occupancies, the amount of combustible fabric partitions suspended from the ceiling and not supported by the floor shall comply with Section 806.4 and shall not be limited.

806.5 Foam Plastic

Foam plastic used as trim in any occupancy shall comply with Section 2604.2.

806.7 Interior Trim

Material, other than foam plastic used as interior trim, shall have a minimum Class C flame spread and smoke-developed index when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, as described in Section 803.1.2. Combustible trim, excluding handrails and guardrails, shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which it is attached.

806.7 Interior Floor-Wall Base

Interior floor-wall base that is 6 inches or less in height shall be tested in accordance with Section 804.2 and shall not be less than Class II. Where a Class I floor finish is required, the floor-wall base shall be Class I.

Exception: Interior trim materials that comply with Section 806.7.

Section 808: Acoustical Ceiling Systems

808.1 Acoustical ceiling systems

The quality, design, fabrication, and erection of metal suspension systems for acoustical tile and lay-in panel ceilings in buildings or structures shall conform to generally accepted engineering practice, the provisions of this chapter and other applicable requirements of this code.

808.1.1 Materials and installation

Acoustical materials complying with the interior finish requirements of Section 803 shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and applicable provisions for applying interior finish.

808.1.1.1 Suspended Acoustical Ceilings

Suspended acoustical ceiling systems shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of ASTM C635 and ASTM C63.

808.1.1.2 Fire-resistance-rated Construction

Acoustical ceiling systems that are part of a fire-resistance-rated construction shall be installed in the same manner used in the assembly tested and shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7.

Ch. 9 | Fire Protection Systems

Section 901: General

901.2 Fire Protection Systems

Fire protection systems shall be installed, repaired, operated and maintained in accordance with this code and the International Fire Code. Any fire protection system for which an exception or reduction of the provisions of this code has been granted shall be considered to be a required system.

901.7 Fire Areas

Where buildings, or portions thereof, are divided into fire areas so as not to exceed the limits established for requiring a fire protection system in accordance with this chapter, such fire areas shall be separated by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both, having a fire-resistance rating of not less than that determined in accordance with Section 707.3.10.

Section 903: Automatic Sprinkler Systems

903.1 General

Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section.

903.1.1 Alternative Protection

Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section 904 shall

be permitted instead of automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the applicable standard and approved by the fire code official.

903.2 Where Required

Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12

903.2.1.2 Group A-2

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-2 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-2 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists: 1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2). 2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more. 3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

903.2.1.3 Group A-3

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-3 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-3 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists: 1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m2). 2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more. 3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

903.2.1.7 Multiple Fire Areas

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided where multiple fire areas of Group A-1, A-2, A-3, or A-4 occupancies share exit or exit access components and the combined occupant load of these fire areas is 300 or more.

903.2.8 Group R

An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.

903.2.11.5 Commercial Cooking Operations

An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct systems where an automatic sprinkler system is used to comply with Section 904.

Section 904: Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems

904.1 General

Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section and the applicable referenced standards.

904.2 Where Permitted

Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code official.

904.2.1 Restriction on Using Automatic Sprinkler System Exceptions or Reductions

Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall not be considered alternatives for the purposes of exceptions or reductions allowed for automatic sprinkler systems or by other requirements of this code.

904.2.2 Commercial Hood and Duct Systems

Each required commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system required by Section 609 of the International Fire Code or Chapter 5 of the International Mechanical Code to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system installed in accordance with this code.

904.13 Commercial Cooking Systems

The automatic fire-extinguishing system for commercial cooking systems shall be of a type recognized for protection of commercial cooking equipment and exhaust systems if the type and arrangement protected. Pre-engineered automatic dry- and wetchemical extinguishing systems shall be tested in accordance with UL 300 and listed and labeled for intended application. Other types of automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be listed and labeled for specific use as protection for commercial cooking operations. The system shall be installed in accordance with this code, its listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems of the following types shall be installed in accordance with the referenced standard indicated, as follows:

1. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, NFPA 12.

2. Automatic sprinkler systems, NFPA 13.

3. Foam-water sprinkler system or foamwater spray systems, NFPA 16.

4. Dry-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17. 5. Wet-chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17A.

Section 906: Portable Fire Extinguishers

906.1 Where Required

Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in all of the following locations:

1.In group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R-1, R-4, and S occupancies.

2.Within 30 feet distance of travel from commercial cooking equipment.

906.2 General Requirements

Portable fire extinguishers shall be selected and installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 10.

906.3 Size and Distribution

The size and distribution of portable fire extinguishers shall be in accordance with Sections 906.3.1 through 906.3.4

906.4 Cooking equipment fires.

Fire extinguishers for the protection of cooking equipment shall be of an approved type compatible with the automatic fireextinguishing system agent. Cooking equipment involving solid fuels or vegetable or animal oils and fats shall be protected by Class K-rated portable extinguishers in accordance with Sections 906.1, Item 2, 906.4.2 of the International Fire Code, as applicable.

Section 907: Fire Alarm and Detection System

907.1 General

This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components.

907.1.1 Construction Documents

Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code, the International Fire Code and relevant laws,

ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the fire code official.

907.2.1 Group A

A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.

Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.

907.2.9 Group R-2

Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 through 907.2.9.3.

907.2.10.3 Installation Near Cooking Appliances

Smoke alarms shall not be installed in the following locations unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm in a location required by Section 907.2.10.1 or 907.2.10.2.

1. Ionization smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 20 feet horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.

2. Ionization smoke alarms with an alarmsilencing switch shall not be installed less than 10 feet horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.

3. Photoelectric smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 6 feet horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.

907.3 Fire Safety Functions

Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building’s fire

alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliance or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system the automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.

907.3.1 Dust Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature, and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control until where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the International Mechanical Code. In facilities that are required to be monitored by a supervising station, duct smoke detectors shall report only as a supervisory signal and not as a fire alarm. They shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.

907.3.3 Elevator Emergency Operation

Automatic fire detectors installed for elevator operation shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of ASME A17.1/ CSA B44 and NFPA 72.

907.5 Occupant Notification

Occupant notification by fire alarms shall be in accordance with Section 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.3. Occupant notification by smoke alarms in Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies shall comply with Section 907.5.2.1.3.2.

907.5.1 Alarm activation and annunciation

Upon activation, fire alarm system shall initiate occupant notification and shall anticipate at the fire alarm control unit, or where allowed elsewhere by Section 907, at a constantly attended location.

907.5.2.1 Audible Alarms

Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and emit a distinctive sound that is not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm.

Section 915: Carbon Monoxide Detection

915.1 General

Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in new buildings in accordance with Sections 915.1.1 through 915.6. Carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in existing buildings in accordance with Chapter 11 of the International Fire Code.

915.1.2 Fuel-Burning Appliances and FuelBurning Fireplace

Carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in dwelling units, sleeping units and classrooms that contain a fuel-burning appliance or a fuel-burning fireplace.

915.3 Detection Equipment

Carbon monoxide detection required by Sections 915.1 through 915.2.3 shall be provided by carbon monoxide alarms complying with Section 915.4 or carbon monoxide detection systems complying with Section 915.5.

915.4.1 Power Source

Carbon monoxide alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source, and when primary power is interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than that required for overcurrent protection.

915.5 Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems

Carbon monoxide detection systems shall be an acceptable alternative to carbon monoxide alarms and shall comply with Sections 915.5.1 through 915.5.3.

915.5.1 General

Carbon monoxide detection systems shall comply with NFPA 720. Carbon monoxide detectors shall be listed in accordance with UL 2075.

915.5.2 Locations

Carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in the locations specified in Section 915.2. These locations supersede the locations specified in NFPA 720.

915.6 Maintenance

Carbon monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with the International Fire Code.

Ch. 10 | Means of Egress

Section 1001: Administration

1001.1 General

Buildings or portions thereof shall be provided with a means of egress system as required by this chapter. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design, construction and arrangement of means of egress components required to provide an approved means of egress from structures and portions thereof.

1001.2 Minimum Requirements

It shall be unlawful to alter a building or structure in a manner that will reduce the number of exits or the minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress to less than required by this code.

Section 1003: General Means of Egress

1003.1 Applicability

The general requirements specified in Sections 1003 through 1015 shall apply to all three elements of the means of egress system, in addition to those specific requirements for the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge detailed elsewhere in this chapter.

1003.2 Ceiling Height

The means of egress shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm).

1003.3 Protruding Objects

Protruding objects on circulation paths shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1003.3.1 through 1003.3.4

1003.3.2 Post-mounted Objects

A free-standing object mounted on a post or pylon shall not overhang that post or pylon more than 4 inches where the lowest point of the leading edge is more than 27 inches and less than 8 inches above the finished floor. Where a sign or other obstruction is mounted between posts or pylons and the clear distance between the posts or pylons is greater than 12 inches, the lowest edge of such sign or obstruction shall be 27 inches maximum or 80 inches minimum above the finished floor or ground.

Exception: these requirements shall not apply to sloping portions of handrails between the top and bottom riser of stairs

and above the ramp run.

1003.3.3 Horizontal Projections

Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches and not more than 80 inches above the finished floor shall not project horizontally more than 4 inches into the circulation path.

Exception: handrails are permitted to protrude 4 1/2 inches from the wall or guard.

1003.3.4 Clear Width

Protruding objects shall not reduce the minimum clear width of accessible routes.

1003.4 Slip-resistant surface

Circulation paths of the means of egress shall have slip-resistant surface and be securely attached.

1003.5 Elevation Change

Where changes in elevation of less than 12 inches exist in the means of egress, sloped surfaces shall be used. Where the slope is greater than one unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope), ramps complying with Section 1012 shall be used. Where the difference in elevation is 6 inches or less, the ramp shall be equipped with either handrails or floor finish materials that contrast with adjacent floor finish materials.

Exceptions:

1. A single step with a maximum riser height of 7 inches (178 mm) is permitted for buildings with occupancies in Groups F, H, R-2, R-3, S and U at exterior doors not required to be accessible by Chapter 11.

2. A stair with a single riser or with two risers and a tread is permitted at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11 where the risers and treads comply with Section 1011.5, the minimum depth of the tread is 13 inches (330 mm) and not less than one handrail complying with Section 1014 is provided within 30 inches (762 mm) of the centerline of the normal path of egress travel on the stair.

3. A step is permitted in aisles serving seating that has a difference in elevation less than 12 inches (305 mm) at locations not required to be accessible by Chapter 11, provided that the risers and treads comply with Section 1029.13 and the aisle is provided.

1003.6 Means of Egress Continuity

The path of egress travel along a means of egress shall not be interrupted by a building element other than a means of egress component as specified in this chapter. Obstructions shall not be placed in the minimum width or required capacity of a means of egress component except projects permitted by this chapter. This minimum width or required capacity of a means of egress shall not be diminished along the path of egress travel.

1003.7 Elevators, Escalators, and Moving Walks

Elevators, escalators and moving walks shall not be used as a component of a required means of egress from any other part of the building.

Exception: elevators used as an accessible means of egress in accordance with Section 1009.4.

Section

1004: Occupant Load

1004.1 Design Occupant Load

In determining means of egress requirements, the number of occupants for whom means of egress facilities are provided shall be determined in accordance with this section.

1004.1.1 Cumulative Occupant Loads

Where the path of egress travel includes intervening rooms, areas or spaces, cumulative occupant loads shall be determined in accordance with this section.

1004.1.2 Areas Without Fixed Seating

Where the path of egress travel includes intervening rooms, areas or spaces, cumulative occupant loads shall be determined in accordance with this section.

1004.2 Increased Occupant Load

The occupant load permitted in any building, or portion thereof, is permitted to be increased from that number established for the occupancies in Table 1004.1.2, provided that all other requirements of the code are also met based on such modified number and the occupant load does not exceed one occupant per 7 square feet (0.65 m2) of occupiable floor space. Where required by the building official, an approved aisle, seating or fixed equipment diagram substantiating any increase in occupant load shall be submitted.

1004.3 Posting of Occupant Load

Every room or space that is an assembly occupancy shall have the occupant load of the room or space posted in a conspicuous place, near the main exit or exit access doorway from the room or space. Posted signs shall be of an approved legible permanent design and shall be maintained by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

1004.4 Fixed Seating

For areas having fixed seats and aisles, the occupant load shall be determined by the number of fixed seats installed therein. The occupant load for areas in which fixed seating is not installed, such as waiting spaces, shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.1.2 and added to the number of fixed seats.

1004.6 Multiple Occupancies

Where a building contains two or more occupancies, the means of egress requirements shall apply to each portion of the building based on the occupancy of that space. Where two or more occupancies utilize portions of the same means of egress system, those egress components shall meet the more stringent requirements of all occupancies that are served.

Section 1001: Administration

1005.1 General

All portions of the means of egress system shall be sized in accordance with this section.

1005.2 Minimum Width Based on Component

The minimum width, in inches (mm), of any means of egress components shall be not less than that specified for such component, elsewhere in this code.

1005.3 Required Capacity Based on Occupant Load

The required capacity, in inches (mm), of the means of egress for any room, area, space or story shall be not less than that determined in accordance with Sections 1005.3.1 and 1005.3.2.

1005.3.1 Stairways

The capacity, in inches, of means of egress stairways shall be calculated by multiplying the occupant load served by such stairways by a means of egress capacity factor of 0.3 inch (7.6 mm) per occupant. Where stairways serve more than one story, only the occupant load of each story considered individually shall

be used in calculating the required capacity of the stairways serving that story.

1005.3.2 Other Egress Components

The capacity, in inches, of means of egress components other than stairways shall be calculated by multiplying the occupant load served by such component by a means of egress capacity factor of 0.2 inch (5.1 mm) per occupant.

1005.4 Continuity

The minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress required from any story of a building shall not be reduced along the path of egress travel until arrival at the public way.

1005.5 Distribution of Minimum Width and Required Capacity

The minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress required from any story of a building shall not be reduced along the path of egress travel until arrival at the public way.

1005.6 Egress Convergence

Where the means of egress from stories above and below converge at an intermediate level, the capacity of the means of egress from the point of convergence shall be not less than the largest minimum width or the sum of the required capacities for the stairways or ramps serving the two adjacent stories, whichever is larger.

Section 1006: Number of Exits and Exit Access Doorways

1006.1 General

The number of exits or exit access doorways required within the means of egress system shall comply with the provisions of Section 1006.2 for spaces, including mezzanines, and Section 1006.3 for stories.

1006.2 Egress from Spaces

Rooms, areas or spaces, including mezzanines, within a story or basement shall be provided with the number of exits or access to exits in accordance with this section.

1006.2.1 Egress Based on Occupant Load and Common Path of Egress Travel Distance

Two exits or exit access doorways from any space shall be provided where the design occupant load or the common path of egress travel distance exceeds the values listed in Table 1006.2.1.

1006.3 Egress from Stories or Occupied Roofs

The means of egress system serving any story or occupied roof shall be provided with the number of separate and distinct exits or access to exits based on the aggregate occupant load served in accordance with this section. Where stairways serve more than one story, only the occupant load of each story considered individually shall be used in calculating the required number of exits or access to exits serving that story.

1006.3.1 Egress Based on Occupant Load

Each story and occupied roof shall have the minimum number of separate and distinct exits or access to exits, as specified in Table 1006.3.2. A single exit or access to a single exit shall be permitted in accordance with Section 1006.3.3. The required number of exits or exit access stairways or ramps providing access to exits, from any story or occupied roof shall be maintained until arrival at the exit discharge or a public way.

Section 1007: Exit and Exit Access Doorway Configuration

1007.1 General

Exits, exit access doorways, and exit access stairways and ramps serving spaces, including individual building stories, shall be separated in accordance with the provisions of this section.

1007.1.1 Two Exits or Exit Access Doorways

Where two exits, exit access doorways, exit access stairways or ramps, or any combination thereof, are required from any portion of the exit access, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building or area to be served measured in a straight line between them. Interlocking or scissor stairways shall be counted as one exit stairway.

1007.1.1.1 Measurement Point

The separation distance required in Section 1007.1.1 shall be measure in accordance with the following: 1. The separation distance to exit or exit access doorways shall be measured to any point along the width of the doorway. 2. The separation distance to exit access stairways shall be measured to the closest riser. 3. The separation distance to exit access ramps shall be measured to the start of the ramp run.

Section 1008: Means of Egress Illumination

1008.1 Means of Egress Illumination

Illumination shall be provided in the means of egress in accordance with Section 1008.2. Under emergency power, means of egress illumination shall comply with Section 1008.3.

1008.2 Illumination Required

The means of egress serving a room or space shall be illuminated at all times that the room or space is occupied.

Section 1009: Accessible Means of Egress

1009.1 Accessible Means of Egress Required

Accessible means of egress shall comply with this section. Accessible spaces shall be provided with not less than one accessible means of egress. Where more than one means of egress are required by Section 1006.2 or 1006.3 from any accessible space, each accessible portion of the space shall be served by not less than two accessible means of egress.

1009.3 Stairways

In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, a stairway between stories shall comply with Sections 1009.3.1 through 1009.3.3.

1009.3.1 Exit Access Stairways

Exit access stairways that connect levels in the same story are not permitted as part of an accessible means of egress.

1009.3.2 Stairway Width

Stairways shall have a clear width of 48 inches between handrails minimum between handrails.

1009.4 Elevators

In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, an elevator shall comply with Sections 109.4.1 and 1009.4.2.

1009.6 Areas of Refuge

Every required area of refuge shall be accessible from the space it serves by an accessible means of egress.

1009.6.1 Travel Distance

The maximum travel distance from any accessible space to an area of refuge shall not exceed the exit access travel distance

1009.6.2 Stairway or Elevator Access

Every required area of refuge shall have direct access to a stairway complying with Sections 1009.3 and 1023 or an elevator complying with Section 1009.4.

1009.6.3 Size

Each area of refuge shall be sized to accommodate one wheelchair space of 30 inches by 48 inches for each 200 occupants or portion thereof, based on the occupant load of the area of refuge and areas served by the area of refuge. Such wheelchair spaces shall not reduce the means of egress minimum width or required capacity. Access to any of the required wheelchair spaces in an area of refuge shall not be obstructed by more than one adjoining wheelchair space.

1009.6.4 Separation

Each area of refuge shall be separated from the remainder of the story by a smoke barrier complying with Section 709 or a horizontal exit complying with Section 1026. Each area of refuge shall be designed to minimize the intrusion of smoke.

Exceptions:

1. Areas of refuge located within an enclosure for interior exit stairways complying with Section 1023.

2. Areas of refuge in outdoor facilities where exit access is essentially open to the outside.

1009.9 Signage

Signage indicating special accessibility provisions shall be provided as shown: 1.Each door providing access to an area of refuge from an adjacent floor area shall be identified by a sign stating: AREA OF REFUGE. 2.Each door providing access to an exterior area for assisted rescue shall be identified by a sign stating: EXTERIOR AREA FOR ASSISTED RESCUE. Signage shall comply with the ICC A117.1 requirements for visual characters and include the International Symbol of Accessibility. Where exit sign illumination is required by Section 1013.3, the signs shall be illuminated. Additionally, visual characters, raised character and braille signage complying with ICC A117.1 shall be located at each door to an area of refuge and exterior area for assisted rescue in accordance with Section 1013.

1009.10 Directional Signage

Directional signage indicating the location of all other means of egress and which of

those are accessible means of egress shall be provided at the following: 1. At exits serving a required accessible space but not providing an approved accessible means of egress. 2. At elevator landings. 3. Within areas of refuge.

Section 1010: Doors, Gates and Turnstiles

1010.1 Doors

Means of egress doors shall meet the requirements of this section. Doors serving a means of egress system shall meet the requirements of this section and Section 1022.2. Doors provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than required by this code shall meet the requirements of this section. Means of egress doors shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting materials shall not be used on means of egress doors. Means of egress doors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decorations or similar materials.

1010.1.1

Size of Doors

The required capacity of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall provide a minimum clear width of 32 inches (813 mm). Clear openings of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). Where this section requires a minimum clear width of 32 inches (813 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). The maximum width of a swinging door leaf shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) nominal. Means of egress doors in a Group I-2 occupancy used for the movement of beds shall provide a clear width not less than 411/2inches (1054 mm). The height of door openings shall be not less than 80 inches (2032 mm).

1010.1.1.1

Projections Into Clear Width

There shall not be projections into the required clear width lower than 34 inches (864 mm) above the floor or ground. Projections into the clear opening width between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) above the floor or ground shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm).

Exception: Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above the floor.

1010.1.2 Door Swing

Egress doors shall be of the pivoted or side hinged swinging type.

1010.1.2.1 Direction of Swing

Pivot or side-hinged swinging doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel where serving a room or area containing an occupant load of 50 or more persons or a Group H occupancy.

1010.1.5 Floor Elevation

There shall be a floor or landing on each side of a door. Such floor or landing shall be at the same elevation on each side of the door. Landings shall be level except for exterior landings, which are permitted to have a slope not to exceed 0.25 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope).

1010.1.6 Landings at Doors

Landings shall have a width not less than the width of the stairway or the door, whichever is greater. Doors in the fully open position shall not reduce a required dimension by more than 7 inches (178 mm). Where a landing serves an occupant load of 50 or more, doors in any position shall not reduce the landing to less than one-half its required width. Landings shall have a length measured in the direction of travel of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm).

1010.1.8 Door Arrangement

Space between two doors in a series shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum plus the width of a door swinging into the space. Doors in a series shall swing either in the same direction or away from the space between the doors.

Exception: Doors within individual dwelling units in Groups R-2 and R-3 other than within Type A dwelling units.

1010.1.9 Door Operations

Except as specifically permitted by this section, egress doors shall be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.

1010.1.9.1 Hardware

Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices on doors required to be accessible by Chapter 11 shall not require tight grasping, tight pinching or twisting of the wrist to operate.

1010.1.9.12 Stairway Doors

Interior stairway means of egress doors shall be openable from both sides without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.

Exceptions:

1. Stairway discharge doors shall be openable from the egress side and shall only be locked from the opposite side.

2. This section shall not apply to doors arranged in accordance with Section 403.5.3.

3. Stairway exit doors are permitted to be locked from the side opposite the egress side, provided that they are openable from the egress side and capable of being unlocked simultaneously without unlatching upon a signal from the fire command center, if present, or a signal by emergency personnel from a single location inside the main entrance to the building.

4. Stairway exit doors shall be openable from the egress side and shall only be locked from the opposite side in Group B, F, M and S occupancies where the only interior access to the tenant space is from a single exit stairway where permitted in Section 1006.3.3.

Section 1011: Stairways

1011.1 General

Stairways serving occupied portions of a building shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1011.2 through 1011.13. Alternating tread devices shall comply with Section 1011.14. Ship’s ladders shall comply with Section 1011.15. Ladders shall comply with Section 1011.16.

Exception: Within rooms or spaces used for assembly purposes, stepped aisles shall comply with Section 1029.

1011.2 Width and Capacity

The required capacity of stairways shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but the minimum width shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm). See Section 1009.3 for accessible means of egress stairways.

Exceptions: Stairways serving an occupant load of less than 50 shall have a width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm).

1011.3 Headroom

Stairways shall have a headroom clearance of not less than 80 inches (2032 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the edge of the nosings. Such headroom shall be continuous above the stairway to the point where the line intersects the landing below, one tread depth beyond the bottom riser. The minimum clearance shall be maintained the full width of the stairway and landing.

Exceptions: Spiral stairways complying with Section 1011.10 are permitted a 78inch (1981 mm) headroom clearance.

1011.5 Stair Treads and Risers

Stair treads and risers shall comply with Sections 1011.5.1 through 1011.5.5.3.

1011.5.1 Dimension Reference Surfaces

For the purpose of this section, all dimensions are exclusive of carpets, rugs or runners

1011.5.2 Riser Height and Tread

Stair riser heights shall be 7 inches (178 mm) maximum and 4 inches (102 mm) minimum. The riser height shall be measured vertically between the nosings of adjacent treads. Rectangular tread depths shall be 11 inches (279 mm) minimum measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread’s nosing. Winder treads shall have a minimum tread depth of 11 inches (279 mm) between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of adjacent treads at the intersections with the walkline and a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (254 mm) within the clear width of the stair.

1011.5.4 Dimensional Uniformity

Stair treads and risers shall be of uniform size and shape. The tolerance between the largest and smallest riser height or between the largest and smallest tread depth shall not exceed 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) in any flight of stairs. The greatest winder tread depth at the walkline within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm).

1011.5.5 Nosing and Riser Profile

Nosings shall have a curvature or bevel of not less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) but not more than 9/16 inch (14.3 mm) from the foremost projection of the tread. Risers shall be solid and vertical or sloped under the tread above from the underside of the

nosing above at an angle not more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) from the vertical.

1011.5.5.1 Nosing Projection Size

The leading edge (nosings) of treads shall project not more than 11/4 inches (32 mm) beyond the tread below.

1011.6 Stairway Landings

There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. The width of landings, measured perpendicularly to the direction of travel, shall be not less than the width of stairways served. Every landing shall have a minimum depth, measured parallel to the direction of travel, equal to the width of the stairway or 48 inches (1219 mm), whichever is less. Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the landing to less than one-half the required width. When fully open, the door shall not project more than 7 inches (178 mm) into a landing. Where wheelchair spaces are required on the stairway landing in accordance with Section 1009.6.3, the wheelchair space shall not be located in the required width of the landing and doors shall not swing over the wheelchair spaces.

Exception: Where stairways connect stepped aisles to cross aisles or concourses, stairway landings are not required at the transition between stairways and stepped aisles constructed in accordance with Section 1029.

1011.7 Stairway Construction

Stairways shall be built of materials consistent with the types permitted for the type of construction of the building, except that wood handrails shall be permitted for all types of construction.

1011.7.3 Enclosures Under Interior Stairways

The walls and soffits within enclosed usable spaces under enclosed and unenclosed stairways shall be protected by 1-hour fireresistance-rated construction or the fireresistance rating of the stairway enclosure, whichever is greater. Access to the enclosed space shall not be directly from within the stairway enclosure.

1011.8 Vertical Rise

A flight of stairs shall not have a vertical rise greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) between floor levels or landing.

1011.9 Curved Stairways

Curved stairways with winder treads shall have treads and risers in accordance with Section 1011.5 and the smallest radius shall be not less than twice the minimum width or required capacity of the stairway.

1011.11 Handrails

Flights of stairways shall have handrails on each side and shall comply with Section 1014. Where glass is used to provide the handrail, the handrail shall comply with Section 2407.

Section 1013: Exit Signs

1013.1 Where Required

Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an approved exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. The path of egress travel to exits and within exits shall be marked by readily visible exit signs to clearly indicate the direction of egress travel in cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Intervening means of egress doors within exits shall be marked by exit signs. Exit sign placement shall be such that any point in an exit access corridor or exit passageway is within 100 feet (30 480 mm) or the listed viewing distance of the sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign.

Exceptions:

1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that require only one exit or exit access.

2.Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit signs where approved by the building official.

1013.3 Illumination

Exit signs shall be internally or externally illuminated.

Exception: Tactile signs required by Section 1013.4 need not be provided with illumination.

1013.6.1 Graphics

Every exit sign and directional exit sign shall have plainly legible letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than 3/4 inch (19.1 mm) wide. The word “EXIT” shall have letters having a width not less than 2 inches (51 mm) wide,

except the letter “I,” and the minimum spacing between letters shall be not less than 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Signs larger than the minimum established in this section shall have letter widths, strokes and spacing in proportion to their height. The word “EXIT” shall be in high contrast with the background and shall be clearly discernible when the means of exit sign illumination is or is not energized. If a chevron directional indicator is provided as part of the exit sign, the construction shall be such that the direction of the chevron directional indicator cannot be readily changed.

1013.6.1 Graphics

The face of an exit sign illuminated from an external source shall have an intensity of not less than 5 footcandles (54 lux).

Section 1014: Handrails

1014.2 Height

Handrail height, measured above stair tread nosings, or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be uniform, not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm). Handrail height of alternating tread devices and ship’s ladders, measured above tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm).

Exceptions:

1.Where handrail fittings or bendings are used to provide continuous transition between flights, the fittings or bendings shall be permitted to exceed the maximum height.

3.Handrails on top of a guard where permitted along stepped aisles and ramped aisles in accordance with Section 1029.16.

1014.3 Handrail Graspability

Required handrails shall comply with Section 1014.3.1 or shall provide equivalent graspability.

1014.3.1 Type I

Handrails with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm). Where the handrail is not circular, it shall have a perimeter dimension of not less than 4 inches (102 mm) and not greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) with a maximum crosssectional dimension of 21/4 inches (57 mm)

and minimum cross-sectional dimension of 1 inch (25 mm). Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).

1014.3.2

Type II

Handrails with a perimeter greater than 61/4 inches (160 mm) shall provide a graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile. The finger recess shall begin within a distance of 3/4 inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and achieve a depth of not less than 5/16 inch (8 mm) within 7/8 inch (22 mm) below the widest portion of the profile. This required depth shall continue for not less than 3/8 inch (10 mm) to a level that is not less than 13/4 inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The width of the handrail above the recess shall be not less than 11/4 inches (32 mm) to not greater than 23/4 inches (70 mm). Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).

1014.6

Handrail Extensions

Handrails shall return to a wall, guard or the walking surface or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent flight of stairs or ramp run. Where handrails are not continuous between flights, the handrails shall extend horizontally not less than 12 inches (305 mm) beyond the top riser and continue to slope for the depth of one tread beyond the bottom riser. At ramps where handrails are not continuous between runs, the handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of ramp runs. The extensions of handrails shall be in the same direction of the flights of stairs at stairways and the ramp runs at ramps.

Exceptions:

2.Handrails serving aisles in rooms or spaces used for assembly purposes are permitted to comply with the handrail extensions in accordance with Section 1029.16.

3.Handrails for alternating tread devices and ship’s ladders are permitted to terminate at a location vertically above the top and bottom risers. Handrails for alternating tread devices are not required to be continuous between flights or to extend beyond the top or bottom risers.

1014.7

Clearance

Clear space between a handrail and a wall or other surface shall be not less than 11/2

inches (38 mm). A handrail and a wall or other surface adjacent to the handrail shall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements.

1014.8

Projections

On ramps and on ramped aisles that are part of an accessible route, the clear width between handrails shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum. Projections into the required width of aisles, stairways and ramps at each side shall not exceed 41/2 inches (114 mm) at or below the handrail height. Projections into the required width shall not be limited above the minimum headroom height required in Section 1011.3. Projections due to intermediate handrails shall not constitute a reduction in the egress width. Where a pair of intermediate handrails are provided within the stairway width without a walking surface between the pair of intermediate handrails and the distance between the pair of intermediate handrails is greater than 6 inches (152 mm), the available egress width shall be reduced by the distance between the closest edges of each such intermediate pair of handrails that is greater than 6 inches (152 mm).

Section 1016: Exit Access

1016.1

General

The exit access shall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 1003 through 1015. Exit access arrangement shall comply with Sections 1016 through 1021.

1016.2 Egress Through Intervening Spaces

Egress through intervening spaces shall comply with this section. 1. Exit access through an enclosed elevator lobby is permitted. Access to not less than one of the required exits shall be provided without travel through the enclosed elevator lobbies required by Section 3006. Where the path of exit access travel passes through an enclosed elevator lobby, the level of protection required for the enclosed elevator lobby is not required to be extended to the exit unless direct access to an exit is required by other sections of this code. 2. Egress from a room or space shall not pass through adjoining or intervening rooms or areas, except where such adjoining rooms or areas and the area served are accessory to one or the other, are not a Group H occupancy and provide a discernible path of egress travel to an exit. 3. An exit access shall not pass through a room that can be locked to prevent egress. 4. Means of egress from dwelling units or sleeping areas shall not lead through other sleeping areas, toilet rooms or bathrooms.

5. Egress shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms, closets or spaces used for similar purposes.

1016.2.1 Multiple Tenants

Where more than one tenant occupies any one floor of a building or structure, each tenant space, dwelling unit and sleeping unit shall be provided with access to the required exits without passing through adjacent tenant spaces, dwelling units and sleeping units.

Section 1017: Exit Travel Distance

1017.1 General

Travel distance within the exit access portion of the means of egress system shall be in accordance with this section.

1017.2 Limitations

Exit access travel distance shall not exceed the values given in Table 1017.2.

1017.3 Measurement

Exit access travel distance shall be measured from the most remote point of each room, area or space along the natural and unobstructed path of horizontal and vertical egress travel to the entrance to an exit.

Exception: In open parking garages, exit access travel distance is permitted to be measured to the closest riser of an exit access stairway or the closest slope of an exit access ramp.

1017.3.1 Exit Access Stairways and Ramps

Travel distance on exit access stairways or ramps shall be included in the exit access travel distance measurement. The measurement along stairways shall be made on a plane parallel and tangent to the stair tread nosings in the center of the stair and landings. The measurement along ramps shall be made on the walking surface in the center of the ramp and landings.

Section 1019: Exit Access Stairways and Ramps

1019.1 General

Exit access stairways and ramps serving as an exit access component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. The number of stories connected by exit access stairways and ramps shall include basements, but not mezzanines.

1019.2 All Occupancies

Exit access stairways and ramps that serve floor levels within a single story are not required to be enclosed.

1019.3 Occupancies Other Than Groups I-2 and I-3

In other than Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, floor openings containing exit access stairways or ramps shall be enclosed with a shaft enclosure in accordance with Section 713.

Exceptions:

1. Exit access stairways and ramps that serve or atmospherically communicate between only two stories. Such interconnected stories shall not be open to other stories.

2. In Group R-1, R-2 or R-3 occupancies, exit access stairways and ramps connecting four stories or less serving and contained within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit or live/work unit.

3. Exit access stairways serving and contained within a Group R-3 congregate residence or a Group R-4 facility are not required to be enclosed

4. Exit access stairways and ramps in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, where the area of the vertical opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected area of the stairway or ramp and the opening is protected by a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13. In other than Group B and M occupancies, this provision is limited to openings that do not connect more than four stories.

5. Exit access stairways and ramps within an atrium complying with the provisions of Section 404.

6. Exit access stairways and ramps in open parking garages that serve only the parking garage.

7. Exit access stairways and ramps serving smoke-protected or openair assembly seating complying with the exit access travel distance requirements of Section 1029.7.

8. Exit access stairways and ramps between the balcony, gallery or press box and the main assembly floor in occupancies such as theatres, places of religious worship, auditoriums and sports facilities.

Section 1020: Corridors

1020.1 Construction

Corridors shall be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Table 1020.1. The corridor walls required to be fire-resistance rated shall comply with Section 708 for fire partitions.

Exception: A fire-resistance rating is not required for corridors contained within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit in an occupancy in Groups I-1 and R.

1020.2 Width and Capacity

The required capacity of corridors shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but the minimum width shall be not less than that specified in Table 1020.2

1020.3 Obstruction

The minimum width or required capacity of corridors shall be unobstructed.

Exception: Encroachments complying with Section 1005.7.

1020.4 Dead Ends

Where more than one exit or exit access doorway is required, the exit access shall be arranged such that dead-end corridors do not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm) in length.

Exceptions:

2. In occupancies in Groups B, E, F, I-1, M, R-1, R-2, S and U, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the length of the deadend corridors shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm). 3.A dead-end corridor shall not be limited in length where the length of the dead-end corridor is less than 2.5 times the least width of the dead-end corridor.

Section 1022: Exits

1022.1 General

Exits shall comply with Sections 1022 through 1027 and the applicable requirements of Sections 1003 through 1015. An exit shall not be used for any purpose that interferes with its function as a means of egress. Once

a given level of exit protection is achieved, such level of protection shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge. Exits shall be continuous from the point of entry into the exit to the exit discharge.

1022.2 Exterior Exit Doors

Buildings or structures used for human occupancy shall have not less than one exterior door that meets the requirements of Section 1010.1.1.

1022.2.1 Detailed Requirements

Exterior exit doors shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1010.1

1022.2.2 Arrangement

Exterior exit doors shall lead directly to the exit discharge or the public way.

Section 1023: Interior Exit Stairways and Ramps

1023.1 General

Interior exit stairways and ramps serving as an exit component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall be enclosed and lead directly to the exterior of the building or shall be extended to the exterior of the building with an exit passageway conforming to the requirements of Section 1024, except as permitted in Section 1028.1. An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path.

1023.3 Termination

Interior exit stairways and ramps shall terminate at an exit discharge or a public way.

Exception: A combination of interior exit stairways, interior exit ramps and exit passageways, constructed in accordance with Sections 1023.2, 1023.3.1 and 1024, respectively, and forming a continuous protected enclosure, shall be permitted to extend an interior exit stairway or ramp to the exit discharge or a public way.

1023.3.1 Extension

Where interior exit stairways and ramps are extended to an exit discharge or a public way by an exit passageway, the interior exit stairway and ramp shall be separated from the exit passageway by a fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 or a horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The fire-resistance rating

shall be not less than that required for the interior exit stairway and ramp. A fire door assembly complying with Section 716 shall be installed in the fire barrier to provide a means of egress from the interior exit stairway and ramp to the exit passageway. Openings in the fire barrier other than the fire door assembly are prohibited. Penetrations of the fire barrier are prohibited.

1023.4 Openings

Interior exit stairway and ramp opening protectives shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 716. Openings in interior exit stairways and ramps other than unprotected exterior openings shall be limited to those required for exit access to the enclosure from normally occupied spaces and for egress from the enclosure. Elevators shall not open into interior exit stairways and ramps.

1023.9 Stairway Identification Signs

A sign shall be provided at each floor landing in an interior exit stairway and ramp connecting more than three stories designating the floor level, the terminus of the top and bottom of the interior exit stairway and ramp and the identification of the stairway or ramp. The signage shall state the story of and direction to the exit discharge, and the availability of roof access from the interior exit stairway and ramp for the fire department. The sign shall be located 5 feet (1524 mm) above the floor landing in a position that is readily visible when the doors are in the open and closed positions. In addition to the stairway identification sign, a floor-level sign in visual characters, raised characters and braille complying with ICC A117.1 shall be located at each floor-level landing adjacent to the door leading from the interior exit stairway and ramp into the corridor to identify the floor level.

1023.10 Elevator Lobby Identification Signs

At landings in interior exit stairways where two or more doors lead to the floor level, any door with direct access to an enclosed elevator lobby shall be identified by signage located on the door or directly adjacent to the door stating “Elevator Lobby.” Signage shall be in accordance with Section 1023.9.1, Items 4, 5 and 6.

Section 1028: Exit Discharge

1028.1 General

Exits shall discharge directly to the exterior

of the building. The exit discharge shall be at grade or shall provide a direct path of egress travel to grade. The exit discharge shall not reenter a building. The combined use of Exceptions 1 and 2 shall not exceed 50 percent of the number and minimum width or required capacity of the required exits.

Exceptions:

1.Not more than 50 percent of the number and minimum width or required capacity of interior exit stairways and ramps is permitted to egress through areas on the level of discharge provided that all of the following conditions are met:

1.1. Discharge of interior exit stairways and ramps shall be provided with a free and unobstructed path of travel to an exterior exit door and such exit is readily visible and identifiable from the point of termination of the enclosure.

1.2. The entire area of the level of exit discharge is separated from areas below by construction conforming to the fire-resistance rating for the enclosure.

1.3. The egress path from the interior exit stairway and ramp on the level of exit discharge is protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system. Portions of the level of exit discharge with access to the egress path shall be either equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, or separated from the egress path in accordance with the requirements for the enclosure of interior exit stairways or ramps.

1.4. Where a required interior exit stairway or ramp and an exit access stairway or ramp serve the same floor level and terminate at the same level of exit discharge, the termination of the exit access stairway or ramp and the exit discharge door of the interior exit stairway or ramp shall be separated by a distance of not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) or not less than one-fourth the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the building, whichever is less. The distance shall be measured in a straight line between the exit discharge door from the interior exit stairway or ramp and the last tread of

the exit access stairway or termination of slope of the exit access ramp.

2. Not more than 50 percent of the number and minimum width or required capacity of the interior exit stairways and ramps is permitted to egress through a vestibule provided that all of the following conditions are met:

2.1. The entire area of the vestibule is separated from areas below by construction conforming to the fireresistance rating of the interior exit stairway or ramp enclosure.

2.2. The depth from the exterior of the building is not greater than 10 feet (3048 mm) and the length is not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm).

2.3. The area is separated from the remainder of the level of exit discharge by a fire partition constructed in accordance with Section 708. Exception: The maximum transmitted temperature rise is not required.

2.4. The area is used only for means of egress and exits directly to the outside.

3.Horizontal exits complying with Section 1026 shall not be required to discharge directly to the exterior of the building.

1028.2

Exit Discharge Width or Capacity

The minimum width or required capacity of the exit discharge shall be not less than the minimum width or required capacity of the exits being served.

1028.5

Access to a Public Way

The exit discharge shall provide a direct and unobstructed access to a public way.

Exception: Where access to a public way cannot be provided, a safe dispersal area shall be provided where all of the following are met: 1.The area shall be of a size to accommodate not less than 5 square feet (0.46 m2) for each person. 2.The area shall be located on the same lot not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) away from the building requiring egress. 3.The area shall be permanently maintained and identified as a safe dispersal area. 4.The area shall be provided with a safe and unobstructed path of travel from the building.

1030.2 Assembly Main Exit

A building, room or space used for assembly purposes that has an occupant load of greater than 300 and is provided with a main exit, that main exit shall be of sufficient capacity to accommodate not less than onehalf of the occupant load, but such capacity shall be not less than the total required capacity of all means of egress leading to the exit. Where the building is classified as a Group A occupancy, the main exit shall front on not less than one street or an unoccupied space of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in width that adjoins a street or public way. In a building, room or space used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are provided, exits shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building provided that the total capacity of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required capacity.

1030.3 Assembly Other Exits

In addition to having access to a main exit, each level in a building used for assembly purposes having an occupant load greater than 300 and provided with a main exit, shall be provided with additional means of egress that shall provide an egress capacity for not less than one-half of the total occupant load served by that level and shall comply with Section 1007.1. In a building used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are provided, exits for each level shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building, provided that the total width of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required width.

1030.6 Capacity of Aisle for Assembly

The required capacity of aisles shall be not less than that determined in accordance with Section 1029.6.1 where smoke-protected assembly seating is not provided, Section 1029.6.2 where smoke-protected assembly seating is provided and Section 1029.6.3 where open-air assembly seating is provided.

1030.8 Common Path of Egress Travel

The common path of egress travel shall not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) from any seat to a point where an occupant has a choice of two paths of egress travel to two exits.

Exceptions:

1. For areas serving less than 50 occupants, the common path of egress travel shall not exceed 75 feet (22 860 mm).

2. For smoke-protected or open-air assembly seating, the common path of egress travel shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).

1030.9 Assembly Aisles Are Required

Every occupied portion of any building, room or space used for assembly purposes that contains seats, tables, displays, similar fixtures or equipment shall be provided with aisles leading to exits or exit access doorways in accordance with this section.

1030.9.1 Minimum Aisle Width

The minimum clear width for aisles shall comply with one of the following:

1. Forty-eight inches (1219 mm) for stepped aisles having seating on both sides.

Exception: Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the stepped aisles serve less than 50 seats.

2. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for stepped aisles having seating on only one side.

Exception: Twenty-three inches (584 mm) between a stepped aisle handrail and seating where a stepped aisle does not serve more than five rows on one side.

3. Twenty-three inches (584 mm) between a stepped aisle handrail or guard and seating where the stepped aisle is subdivided by a mid-aisle handrail.

4. Forty-two inches (1067 mm) for level or ramped aisles having seating on both sides.

Exceptions:

1. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the aisle serves less than 50 seats

2. Thirty inches (762 mm) where the aisle serves less than 15 seats and does not serve as part of an accessible route.

5. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for level or ramped aisles having seating on only one side.

Exception: Thirty inches (762 mm) where the aisle serves fewer than 15 seats and does not serve as part of an accessible route.

1030.13 Aisle Accessways

Aisle accessways for seating at tables

shall comply with Section 1029.13.1. Aisle accessways for seating in rows shall comply with Section 1029.13.2.

1030.13.1 Seating at Tables

Where seating is located at a table or counter and is adjacent to an aisle or aisle accessway, the measurement of required clear width of the aisle or aisle accessway shall be made to a line 19 inches (483 mm) away from and parallel to the edge of the table or counter. The 19-inch (483 mm) distance shall be measured perpendicular to the side of the table or counter. In the case of other side boundaries for aisles or aisle accessways, the clear width shall be measured to walls, edges of seating and tread edges.

Exception: Where tables or counters are served by fixed seats, the width of the aisle or aisle accessway shall be measured from the back of the seat.

1030.13.1.2 Seating at Table Aisle Accessway Length

The length of travel along the aisle accessway shall not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) from any seat to the point where a person has a choice of two or more paths of egress travel to separate exits.

Ch. 11 | Accessibility

Section 1103 Scoping Requirements

1103.2.14 Walk-in Coolers and Freezers

Walk-in cooler and freezer equipment accessed only from employee work areas is not required to comply with this chapter.

Section 1104: Accessible Route

1104.3 Connected Spaces

Where a building or portion of a building is required to be accessible, at least one accessible route shall be provided to each portion of the building, to accessible building entrances connecting accessible pedestrian walkways and to the public way.

1104.3.1 Employee Work Areas

Common use circulation paths within employee work areas shall be accessible routes.

Exceptions:

1.Common use circulation paths, located within employee work areas that are less than 1,000 square feet (93 m2) in size and

defined by permanently installed partitions, counters, casework or furnishings, shall not be required to be accessible routes.

2. Common use circulation paths, located within employee work areas, that are an integral component of equipment, shall not be required to be accessible routes.

3. Common use circulation paths, located within exterior employee work areas that are fully exposed to the weather, shall not be required to be accessible routes.

1104.4 Multistory Buildings and Facilities

At least one accessible route shall connect each accessible story, mezzanine and occupied roofs in multilevel buildings and facilities

1104.5 Location

Accessible routes shall coincide with or be located in the same area as a general circulation path. Where the circulation path is interior, the accessible route shall be interior. Where only one accessible route is provided, the accessible route shall not pass through kitchens, storage rooms, restrooms, closets or similar spaces.

Section 1105: Accessible Entrances

1105.1 Public Entrances

In addition to accessible entrances required by Sections 1105.1.1 through 1105.1.7, at least 60 percent of all public entrances shall be accessible.

Exceptions: An accessible entrance is not required to areas not required to be accessible. Loading and service entrances that are not the only entrance to a tenant space.

Section 1107: Dwelling Units and Sleep

1107.1 General

In addition to the other requirements of this chapter, occupancies having dwelling units or sleeping units shall be provided with accessible features in accordance with this section.

1107.2 Design

Dwelling units and sleeping units that are required to be Accessible units, Type A units and Type B units shall comply with the applicable portions of Chapter 10 of ICC A117.1. Units required to be Type A units are permitted

to be designed and constructed as Accessible units. Units required to be Type B units are permitted to be designed and constructed as Accessible units or as Type A units.

1107.3 Accessible Spaces

Rooms and spaces available to the general public or available for use by residents and serving Accessible units, Type A units or Type B units shall be accessible. Accessible spaces shall include toilet and bathing rooms, kitchen, living and dining areas and any exterior spaces, including patios, terraces and balconies.

1107.6 Group R

Accessible units, Type A units and Type B units shall be provided in Group R occupancies in accordance with Sections 1107.6.1 through 1107.6.4.

1107.6.2

Group R-2

Accessible units, Type A units and Type B units shall be provided in Group R-2 occupancies in accordance with Sections 1107.6.2.1 through 1107.6.2.3.

1107.6.2.2 Apartment Houses, Monasteries and Convents

Type A units and Type B units shall be provided in apartment houses, monasteries and convents in accordance with Section 1107.6.2.2.1 and 1107.6.2.2.2

1107.6.2.2.1

Type A Units

In Group R-2 occupancies containing more than 20 dwelling units or sleeping units, at least 2 percent but not less than one of the units shall be a Type A unit. All Group R-2 units on a site shall be considered to determine the total number of units and the required number of Type A units. Type A units shall be dispersed among the various classes of units.

Exceptions:

1. The number of Type A units is permitted to be reduced in accordance with Section 1107.7.

2. Existing structures on a site shall not contribute to the total number of units on a site.

1107.6.2.2.2

Type B Units

Where there are four or more dwelling units or sleeping units intended to be occupied as a residence in a single structure, every dwelling unit and sleeping unit intended to be occupied as a residence shall be a Type

B unit. Exception: The number of Type B units is permitted to be reduced in accordance with Section 1107.7.

Ch. 12 | Interior Environment

Section 1202 Ventilation

1202.5 Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation of an occupied space shall be through windows, doors, louvers or other openings to the outdoors. The operating mechanism for such openings shall be provided with ready access so that the openings are readily controllable by the building occupants.

1202.5.1 Ventilation Area Required

The openable area of the openings to the outdoors shall be not less than 4 percent of the floor area being ventilated.

1202.5.1.1 Adjoining Spaces

Where rooms and spaces without openings to the outdoors are ventilated through an adjoining room, the opening to the adjoining room shall be unobstructed and shall have an area of not less than 8 percent of the floor area of the interior room or space, but not less than 25 square feet (2.3 m2). The openable area of the openings to the outdoors shall be based on the total floor area being ventilated.

Section 1204 Lighting

1204.1 General

Every space intended for human occupancy shall be provided with natural light by means of exterior glazed openings in accordance with Section 1204.2 or shall be provided with artificial light in accordance with Section 1204.3. Exterior glazed openings shall open directly onto a public way or onto a yard or court in accordance with Section 1205.

1204.2 Natural Light

The minimum net glazed area shall be not less than 8 percent of the floor area of the room served.

1204.2.1 Adjoining Spaces

For the purpose of natural lighting, any room is permitted to be considered as a portion of an adjoining room where one-half of the area of the common wall is open and unobstructed and provides an opening of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of

the interior room or 25 square feet (2.32 m2), whichever is greater.

Exception: Openings required for natural light shall be permitted to open into a sunroom with thermal isolation or a patio cover where the common wall provides a glazed area of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the interior room or 20 square feet (1.86 m2), whichever is greater.

1204.2.2 Exterior Openings

Exterior openings required by Section 1204.2 for natural light shall open directly onto a public way, yard or court, as set forth in Section 1205.

Exceptions: Required exterior openings are permitted to open into a roofed porch where the porch meets all of the following criteria:

Abuts a public way, yard or court. Has a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).

Has a longer side at least 65 percent open and unobstructed.

Skylights are not required to open directly onto a public way, yard or court.

1204.3 Artificial Light

Artificial light shall be provided that is adequate to provide an average illumination of 10 footcandles (107 lux) over the area of the room at a height of 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor level.

1204.4 Stairway Illumination

Stairways within dwelling units and exterior stairways serving a dwelling unit shall have an illumination level on tread runs of not less than 1 footcandle (11 lux). Stairways in other occupancies shall be governed by Chapter 10.

1204.4.1 Controls

The control for activation of the required stairway lighting shall be in accordance with the Electrical Code.

1204.5 Emergency Egress Lighting

The means of egress shall be illuminated in accordance with Section 1008.1.

Section 1205 Yards or Courts

1205.1 General

This section shall apply to yards and courts adjacent to exterior openings that provide natural light or ventilation. Such yards and

courts shall be on the same lot as the building.

1205.3 Courts

Courts shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width. Courts having windows opening on opposite sides shall be not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) in width.Courts shall be not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in length unless bounded on one end by a public way or yard. For buildings more than two stories above grade plane, the court shall be increased 1 foot (305 mm) in width and 2 feet (610 mm) in length for each additional story. For buildings exceeding 14 stories above grade plane, the required dimensions shall be computed on the basis of 14 stories above grade plane.

1205.3.1 Court Access

Access shall be provided to the bottom of courts for cleaning purposes.

1205.3.2 Air Intake

Courts more than two stories in height shall be provided with a horizontal air intake at the bottom not less than 10 square feet (0.93 m2) in area and leading to the exterior of the building unless abutting a yard or public way.

1205.3.3 Court Drainage

The bottom of every court shall be properly graded and drained to a public sewer or other approved disposal system complying with the Plumbing Code.

Section 1206 Sound Transmission

1206.1 Scope

This section shall apply to common interior walls, partitions and floor/ceiling assemblies between adjacent dwelling units and sleeping units or between dwelling units and sleeping units and adjacent public areas such as halls, corridors, stairways or service areas.

1206.2 Airborne Sound

Walls, partitions and floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units and sleeping units from each other or from public or service areas shall have a sound transmission class of not less than 50, or not less than 45 if field tested, for airborne noise where tested in accordance with ASTM E90. Alternatively, the sound transmission class of walls, partitions and floor-ceiling assemblies shall be established by engineering analysis based on a comparison of walls, partitions and floor-ceiling assemblies having sound transmission class ratings as determined by the test procedures set forth in ASTM E90.

Penetrations or openings in construction assemblies for piping; electrical devices; recessed cabinets; bathtubs; soffits; or heating, ventilating or exhaust ducts shall be sealed, lined, insulated or otherwise treated to maintain the required ratings. This requirement shall not apply to entrance doors; however, such doors shall be tight fitting to the frame and sill.

Section 1207 Interior Space Dimensions

1207.1 Minimum Room Widths

Habitable spaces, other than a kitchen, shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) in any plan dimension. Kitchens shall have a clear passageway of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) between counter fronts and appliances or counter fronts and walls.

1207.2 Minimum Ceiling Heights

Occupiable spaces, habitable spaces and corridors shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm) above the finished floor. Bathrooms, toilet rooms, kitchens, storage rooms and laundry rooms shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the finished floor.

Exceptions: In one- and two-family dwellings, beams or girders spaced not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center shall be permitted to project not more than 6 inches (152 mm) below the required ceiling height. If any room in a building has a sloped ceiling, the prescribed ceiling height for the room is required in one-half the area thereof. Any portion of the room measuring less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the finished floor to the ceiling shall not be included in any computation of the minimum area thereof. The height of mezzanines and spaces below mezzanines shall be in accordance with Section 505.2. Corridors contained within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit in a Group R occupancy shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the finished floor.

1207.3 Room Area

Every dwelling unit shall have not less than one room that shall have not less than 120 square feet (11.2 m2) of net floor area. Other habitable rooms shall have a net floor area of not less than 70 square feet (6.5 m2).

Exception: Kitchens are not required to be of a minimum floor area.

1207.4 Efficiency Dwelling Units

An efficiency living unit shall conform to the requirements of the code except as modified herein: The unit shall have a living room of not less than 220 square feet (20.4 m2) of floor area. An additional 100 square feet (9.3 m2) of floor area shall be provided for each occupant of such unit in excess of two. The unit shall be provided with a separate closet. The unit shall be provided with a kitchen sink, cooking appliance and refrigeration facilities, each having a clear working space of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in front. Light and ventilation conforming to this code shall be provided. The unit shall be provided with a separate bathroom containing a water closet, lavatory and bathtub or shower.

Section 1209 Toilet and Bathroom Requirements

1209.1 Required Fixtures

The number and type of plumbing fixtures provided in any occupancy shall comply with Chapter 29. See Chapter 11 for accessibility requirements.

1209.2 Finish Materials

Walls, floors and partitions in toilet and bathrooms shall comply with Sections 1209.2.1 through 1209.2.4.

1209.2.1 Floors and Wall Bases

In other than dwelling units, toilet, bathing and shower room floor finish materials shall have a smooth, hard, nonabsorbent surface. The intersections of such floors with walls shall have a smooth, hard, nonabsorbent vertical base that extends upward onto the walls not less than 4 inches (102 mm).

1209.2.2 Walls and Partitions

Walls and partitions within 2 feet (610 mm) of service sinks, urinals and water closets shall have a smooth, hard, nonabsorbent surface, to a height of not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) above the floor, and except for structural elements, the materials used in such walls shall be of a type that is not adversely affected by moisture.

Exception: This section does not apply to the following buildings and spaces: Dwelling units and sleeping units. Toilet rooms that are not accessible to the public and that have not more than one water closet. Accessories such as grab bars, towel bars, paper dispensers and soap

dishes, provided on or within walls, shall be installed and sealed to protect structural elements from moisture.

1209.2.3 Showers

Shower compartments and walls above bathtubs with installed shower heads shall be finished with a smooth, nonabsorbent surface to a height not less than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the drain inlet.

ADA Standards

Ch. 03 | Building Blocks

General

301.1 Scope.

The provisions of Chapter 3 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

302 Floor or Ground Surfaces

302.1 General. Floor and ground surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant and shall comply with 302.

Advisory 302.1 General. A stable surface is one that remains unchanged by contaminants or applied force, so that when the contaminant or force is removed, the surface returns to its original condition. A firm surface resists deformation by either indentations or particles moving on its surface. A slip resistant surface provides sufficient frictional counterforce to the forces exerted in walking to permit safe ambulation.

302.2 Carpet.

Carpet or carpet tile shall be securely attached and shall have a firm cushion, pad, or backing or no cushion or pad. Carpet or carpet tile shall have a level loop, textured loop, level cut pile, or level cut/uncut pile texture. Pile height shall be 1/2 inch (13 mm) maximum. Exposed edges of carpet shall be fastened to floor surfaces and shall have trim on the entire length of the exposed edge. Carpet edge trim shall comply with 303.

Advisory 302.2 Carpet. Carpets and permanently affixed mats can significantly increase the amount of force (roll resistance) needed to propel a wheelchair over a surface. The firmer the carpeting and backing, the lower the roll resistance. A pile thickness up to 1/2 inch (13 mm) (measured to the backing, cushion, or pad) is allowed, although a lower pile provides easier wheelchair maneuvering. If a backing, cushion or pad is used, it must be firm. Preferably, carpet pad should not be used because the soft padding increases roll resistance.

303 Changes in Level

303.1 General.

Where changes in level are permitted in floor or ground surfaces, they shall comply with 303.

303.303.2 Vertical.

Changes in level of 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) high maximum shall be permitted to be vertical.

303.4 Ramps.

Changes in level greater than 1/2 inch (13 mm) high shall be ramped, and shall comply with 405 or 406.

304 Turning Space

304.1 General.

Turning space shall comply with 304.3

304.2 Floor or Ground Surfaces.

Floor or ground surfaces of a turning space shall comply with 302. Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

304.3 Size.

Turning space shall comply with 304.3.1 or 304.3.2.

304.3.1 Circular Space.

The turning space shall be a space of 60 inches (1525 mm) diameter minimum. The space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with 306

304.3.2 T-Shaped Space.

The turning space shall be a T-shaped space within a 60 inch (1525 mm) square minimum with arms and base 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum. Each arm of the T shall be clear of obstructions 12 inches (305 mm) minimum in each direction and the base shall be clear of obstructions 24 inches (610 mm) minimum. The space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with 306 only at the end of either the base or one arm.

304.4 Door Swing.

Doors shall be permitted to swing into turning spaces.

305 Clear Floor or Ground Space

305.1 General.

Clear floor or ground space shall comply with 305.

305.2 Floor or Ground Surfaces.

Floor or ground surfaces of a clear floor or ground space shall comply with 302. Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

305.3 Size.

The clear floor or ground space shall be 30 inches (760 mm) minimum by 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum.

305.4 Knee and Toe Clearance.

Unless otherwise specified, clear floor or ground space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with 306.

305.5 Position.

Unless otherwise specified, clear floor or ground space shall be positioned for either forward or parallel approach to an element.

305.6 Approach.

One full unobstructed side of the clear floor or ground space shall adjoin an accessible route or adjoin another clear floor or ground space.

305.7 Maneuvering Clearance.

Where a clear floor or ground space is located in an alcove or otherwise confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering clearance shall be provided in accordance with 305.7.1 and 305.7.2.

306 Knee and Toe Clearance

306.1 General.

Where space beneath an element is included as part of clear floor or ground space or turning space, the space shall comply with 306. Additional space shall not be prohibited beneath an element but shall not be considered as part of the clear floor or ground space or turning space.

Advisory 306.1 General. Clearances are measured in relation to the usable clear floor space, not necessarily to the vertical support for an element. When determining clearance under an object for required turning or maneuvering space, care should be taken to

ensure the space is clear of any obstructions.

306.2 Toe Clearance.

306.2.1 General.

Space under an element between the finish floor or ground and 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall be considered toe clearance and shall comply with 306.2.

306.2.2 Maximum Depth.

Toe clearance shall extend 25 inches (635 mm) maximum under an element.

306.2.3 Minimum Required Depth.

Where toe clearance is required at an element as part of a clear floor space, the toe clearance shall extend 17 inches (430 mm) minimum under the element.

306.2.4 Additional Clearance.

Space extending greater than 6 inches (150 mm) beyond the available knee clearance at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall not be considered toe clearance.

306.2.5 Width.

Toe clearance shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum.

306.3 Knee Clearance.

306.3.1 General.

Space under an element between 9 inches (230 mm) and 27 inches (685 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall be considered knee clearance and shall comply with 306.3.

306.3.2 Maximum Depth.

Knee clearance shall extend 25 inches (635 mm) maximum under an element at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish floor or ground.

306.3.3 Minimum Required Depth.

Where knee clearance is required under an element as part of a clear floor space, the knee clearance shall be 11 inches (280 mm) deep minimum at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish floor or ground, and 8 inches (205 mm) deep minimum at 27 inches (685 mm) above the finish floor or ground.

306.3.4 Clearance Reduction.

Between 9 inches (230 mm) and 27 inches (685 mm) above the finish floor or ground, the knee clearance shall be permitted to reduce at a rate of 1 inch (25 mm) in depth for each 6 inches (150 mm) in height. 306.3.5 Width. Knee clearance shall be 30 inches (760 mm)

wide minimum.

307 Protruding Objects

307.1 General.

Protruding objects shall comply with 307

307.307.2 Protrusion Limits.

Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches (685 mm) and not more than 80 inches (2030 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall protrude 4 inches (100 mm) maximum horizontally into the circulation path.

EXCEPTION: Handrails shall be permitted to protrude 4 1/2 inches (115 mm) maximum.

307.4 Vertical Clearance.

Vertical clearance shall be 80 inches (2030 mm) high minimum. Guardrails or other barriers shall be provided where the vertical clearance is less than 80 inches (2030 mm) high. The leading edge of such guardrail or barrier shall be located 27 inches (685 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground.

EXCEPTION: Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.

307.5 Required Clear Width.

Protruding objects shall not reduce the clear width required for accessible routes.

308 Reach Ranges

308.2 Forward Reach.

308.2.1 Unobstructed.

Where a forward reach is unobstructed, the high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low forward reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.

308.2.2 Obstructed High Reach.

Where a high forward reach is over an obstruction, the clear floor space shall extend beneath the element for a distance not less than the required reach depth over the obstruction. The high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum where the reach depth is 20 inches (510 mm) maximum. Where the reach depth exceeds 20 inches (510 mm), the high forward reach shall be 44 inches (1120 mm) maximum and the reach depth shall be 25 inches (635 mm) maximum.

308.3 Side Reach.

308.3.1 Unobstructed.

Where a clear floor or ground space allows a parallel approach to an element and the side reach is unobstructed, the high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) BLOCKSTECHNICAL152 maximum and the low side reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. An obstruction shall be permitted between the clear floor or ground space and the element where the depth of the obstruction is 10 inches (255 mm) maximum.

2. Operable parts of fuel dispensers shall be permitted to be 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum measured from the surface of the vehicular way where fuel dispensers are installed on existing curbs.

308.3.2 Obstructed High Reach.

Where a clear floor or ground space allows a parallel approach to an element and the high side reach is over an obstruction, the height of the obstruction shall be 34 inches (865 mm) maximum and the depth of the obstruction shall be 24 inches (610 mm) maximum. The high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum for a reach depth of 10 inches (255 mm) maximum. Where the reach depth exceeds 10 inches (255 mm), the high side reach shall be 46 inches (1170 mm) maximum for a reach depth of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. The top of washing machines and clothes dryers shall be permitted to be 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

2. Operable parts of fuel dispensers shall be permitted to be 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum measured from the surface of the vehicular way where fuel dispensers are installed on existing curbs.

309 Operable Parts

309.1 General.

Operable parts shall comply with 309.

309.2 Clear Floor Space.

A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be provided.

309.3 Height.

309.4 Operation.

Operable parts shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate operable parts shall be 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

Ch. 04 | Accessible Routes

401 General

401.1 Scope.

The provisions of Chapter 4 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

402 Accessible Routes

402.1 General.

Accessible routes shall comply with 402.

402.2 Components.

Accessible routes shall consist of one or more of the following components: walking surfaces with a running slope not steeper than 1:20, doorways, ramps, curb ramps excluding the flared sides, elevators, and platform lifts. All components of an accessible route shall comply with the applicable requirements of Chapter 4.

Advisory 402.2 Components. Walking surfaces must have running slopes not steeper than 1:20, see 403.3. Other components of accessible routes, such as ramps (405) and curb ramps (406), are permitted to be more steeply sloped.

403 Walking Surfaces

403.1 General.

Walking surfaces that are a part of an accessible route shall comply with 403.

403.2 Floor or Ground Surface. Floor or ground surfaces shall comply with 302.

403.3 Slope.

The running slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:20. The cross slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:48.

403.4 Changes in Level.

Changes in level shall comply with 303.

403.5 Clearances.

Walking surfaces shall provide clearances complying with 403.5.

EXCEPTION: Within employee work areas, clearances on common use circulation paths shall be permitted to be decreased by work area equipment provided that the decrease is essential to the function of the work being performed.

403.5.1 Clear Width

Except as provided in 403.5.2 and 403.5.3, the clear width of walking surfaces shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION: The clear width shall be permitted to be reduced to 32 inches (815 mm) minimum for a length of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum provided that reduced width segments are separated by segments that are 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.

403.6 Handrails.

Where handrails are provided along walking surfaces with running slopes not steeper than 1:20 they shall comply with 505.

Advisory 403.6 Handrails. Handrails provided in elevator cabs and platform lifts are not required to comply with the requirements for handrails on walking surfaces.

404 Doors, Doorways and Gates

404.2 Manual Doors, Doorways, and Manual Gates.

Manual doors and doorways and manual gates intended for user passage shall comply with 404.2.

404.2.2 Double-Leaf Doors and Gates.

At least one of the active leaves of doorways with two leaves shall comply with 404.2.3 and 404.2.4.

404.2.3 Clear Width.

Door openings shall provide a clear width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum. Clear openings of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees. Openings more than 24 inches (610 mm) deep shall provide a clear opening of 36 inches (915 mm) minimum. There shall be no projections into the required clear opening width lower than 34 inches (865 mm) above the finish floor or ground. Projections into the

clear opening width between 34 inches (865 mm) and 80 inches (2030 mm) above the finish floor or ground shall not exceed 4 inches (100 mm).

EXCEPTIONS:

1. In alterations, a projection of 5/8 inch (16 mm) maximum into the required clear width shall be permitted for the latch side stop.

2. Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.

404.2.4 Maneuvering Clearances.

Minimum maneuvering clearances at doors and gates shall comply with 404.2.4. Maneuvering clearances shall extend the full width of the doorway and the required latch side or hinge side clearance.

EXCEPTION: Entry doors to hospital patient rooms shall not be required to provide the clearance beyond the latch side of the door.

404.2.4.1 Swinging Doors and Gates.

Swinging doors and gates shall have maneuvering clearances complying with Table 404.2.4.1.

404.2.4.2 Doorways without Doors or Gates, Sliding Doors, and Folding Doors.

Doorways less than 36 inches (915 mm) wide without doors or gates, sliding doors, or folding doors shall have maneuvering clearances complying with Table 404.2.4.2.

404.2.7 Door and Gate Hardware.

Handles, pulls, latches, locks, and other operable parts on doors and gates shall comply with 309.4. Operable parts of such hardware shall be 34 inches (865 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground. Where sliding doors are in the fully open position, operating hardware shall be exposed and usable from both sides.

404.2.8 Closing Speed.

Door and gate closing speed shall comply with 404.2.8.

404.2.8.1 Door Closers and Gate Closers.

Door closers and gate closers shall be adjusted so that from an open position of 90 degrees, the time required to move the door to a position of 12 degrees from the latch is 5

seconds minimum.

404.2.8.2 Spring Hinges.

Door and gate spring hinges shall be adjusted so that from the open position of 70 degrees, the door or gate shall move to the closed position in 1.5 seconds minimum.

404.2.9 Door and Gate Opening Force.

Fire doors shall have a minimum opening force allowable by the appropriate administrative authority. The force for pushing or pulling open a door or gate other than fire doors shall be as follows:

1.Interior hinged doors and gates: 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

2. Sliding or folding doors: 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.These forces do not apply to the force required to retract latch bolts or disengage other devices that hold the door or gate in a closed position.

404.2.11 Vision Lights.

Doors, gates, and side lights adjacent to doors or gates, containing one or more glazing panels that permit viewing through the panels shall have the bottom of at least one glazed panel located 43 inches (1090 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

EXCEPTION: Vision lights with the lowest part more than 66 inches (1675 mm) from the finish floor or ground shall not be required to comply with 404.2.11

405 Ramps

405.1 General.

Ramps on accessible routes shall comply with 405.

EXCEPTION: In assembly areas, aisle ramps adjacent to seating and not serving elements required to be on an accessible route shall not be required to comply with 405.

405.2 Slope

Ramp runs shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:12.

EXCEPTION: In existing sites, buildings, and facilities, ramps shall be permitted to have running slopes steeper than 1:12 complying with Table 405.2 where such slopes are necessary due to space limitations.

405.3 Cross Slope

Cross slope of ramp runs shall not be steeper than 1:48.

405.4 Floor or Ground Surfaces

Floor or ground surfaces of ramp runs shall comply with 302. Changes in level other than the running slope and cross slope are not permitted on ramp runs.

405.5 Clear Width

The clear width of a ramp run and, where handrails are provided, the clear width between handrails shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

405.7.1 Slope

Landings shall comply with 302. Changes in level are not permitted

EXCEPTION: Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

405.7.2 Width

The landing clear width shall be at least as wide as the widest ramp run leading to the landing.

405.7.3 Length

The landing clear length shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

405.7.4 Change in Direction

Ramps that change direction between runs at landings shall have a clear landing 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

405.7.5 Doorways

Where doorways are located adjacent to a ramp landing, maneuvering clearances required by 404.2.4 and 404.3.2 shall be permitted to overlap the required landing area.

405.8 Handrails

Ramp runs with a rise greater than 6 inches (150 mm) shall have handrails complying with 505.

EXCEPTION: Within employee work areas, handrails shall not be required where ramps that are part of common use circulation paths are designed to permit the installation of handrails complying with 505. Ramps not subject to the exception to 405.5 shall be designed to maintain a 36 inch (915 mm) minimum clear width when handrails are installed.

405.9 Edge Protection

Edge protection complying with 405.9.1 or 405.9.2 shall be provided on each side of ramp runs and at each side of ramp landings.

405.9.2 Curb or Barrier

A curb or barrier shall be provided that prevents the passage of a 4 inch (100 mm) diameter sphere, where any portion of the sphere is within 4 inches (100 mm) of the finish floor or ground surface.

405.10 Wet Conditions

Landings subject to wet conditions shall be designed to prevent the accumulation of water.

406 Curb Ramps

406.1 General.

Curb ramps on accessible routes shall comply with 406, 405.2 through 405.5, and 405.10.4

406.2 Counter Slope

Counter slopes of adjoining gutters and road surfaces immediately adjacent to the curb ramp shall not be steeper than 1:20. The adjacent surfaces at transitions at curb ramps to walks, gutters, and streets shall be at the same level.

406.4 Landings

Landings shall be provided at the tops of curb ramps. The landing clear length shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum. The landing clear width shall be at least as wide as the curb ramp, excluding flared sides, leading to the landing.

EXCEPTION: In alterations, where there is no landing at the top of curb ramps, curb ramp flares shall be provided and shall not be steeper than 1:12.

407 Elevators

407.1 General

Elevators shall comply with 407 and with ASME A17.1 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1). They shall be passenger elevators as classified by ASME A17.1. Elevator operation shall be automatic.

407.2.1 Call Controls.

Where elevator call buttons or keypads are provided, they shall comply with 407.2.1 and 309.4. Call buttons shall be raised or flush.

EXCEPTION: Existing elevators shall be permitted to have recessed call buttons.

407.2.1.1 Height.

Call buttons and keypads shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified in 308, measured to the centerline of the highest operable part.

EXCEPTION: Existing call buttons and existing keypads shall be permitted to be located at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor, measured to the centerline of the highest operable part.

407.2.1.2 Size.

Call buttons shall be 3/4 inch (19 mm) minimum in the smallest dimension.

EXCEPTION: Existing elevator call buttons shall not be required to comply with 407.2.1.2

407.2.1.3 Clear Floor or Ground Space.

A clear floor or ground space complying with 305 shall be provided at call controls.

407.2.1.4 Location.

The call button that designates the up direction shall be located above the call button that designates the down direction.

407.2.1.5 Signals.

Call buttons shall have visible signals to indicate when each call is registered and when each call is answered.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with 407.2.1.5 provided that visible and audible signals complying with 407.2.2 indicating which elevator car to enter are provided.

2. Existing elevators shall not be required to comply with 407.2.1.5

407.2.2.3 Audible Signals.

Audible signals shall sound once for the up direction and twice for the down direction, or shall have verbal annunciators that indicate the direction of elevator car travel. Audible signals shall have a frequency of 1500 Hz maximum. Verbal annunciators shall have a frequency of 300 Hz minimum and 3000 Hz maximum. The audible signal and verbal annunciator shall be 10 dB minimum above ambient, but shall

not exceed 80 dB, measured at the hall call button.

407.2.2.4 Differentiation.

Each destination-oriented elevator in a bank of elevators shall have audible and visible means for differentiation.

407.2.3 Hoistway Signs.

Signs at elevator hoistways shall comply with 407.2.3.

407.2.3.1 Floor Designation.

Floor designations complying with 703.2 and 703.4.1 shall be provided on both jambs of elevator hoistway entrances. Floor designations shall be provided in both tactile characters and braille. Tactile characters shall be 2 inches (51 mm) high minimum. A tactile star shall be provided on both jambs at the main entry level.

407.3 Elevator Door Requirements.

Hoistway and car doors shall comply with 407.3.

407.3.1 Type.

Elevator doors shall be the horizontal sliding type. Car gates shall be prohibited.

407.3.2 Operation.

Elevator hoistway and car doors shall open and close automatically.

407.3.3 Reopening Device.

Elevator doors shall be provided with a reopening device complying with 407.3.3 that shall stop and reopen a car door and hoistway door automatically if the door becomes obstructed by an object or person.

407.3.4 Door and Signal Timing.

The minimum acceptable time from notification that a car is answering a call or notification of the car assigned at the means for the entry of destination information until the doors of that car start to close shall be calculated from the following equation:T = D/ (1.5 ft/s) or T = D/(455 mm/s) = 5 seconds minimum where T equals the total time in seconds and D equals the distance (in feet or millimeters) from the point in the lobby or corridor 60 inches (1525 mm) directly in front of the farthest call button controlling that car to the centerline of its hoistway door.

407.4 Elevator Car Requirements.

Elevator cars shall comply with 407.4.

407.4.1 Car Dimensions.

Inside dimensions of elevator cars and clear width of elevator doors shall comply with Table 407.4.1.

407.4.2 Floor Surfaces.

Floor surfaces in elevator cars shall comply with 302 and 303.

407.4.3 Platform to Hoistway Clearance.

The clearance between the car platform sill and the edge of any hoistway landing shall be 1 1/4 inch (32 mm) maximum.

407.4.4 Leveling.

Each car shall be equipped with a self leveling feature that will automatically bring and maintain the car at floor landings within a tolerance of 1/2 inch (13 mm) under rated loading to zero loading conditions.

407.4.5 Illumination.

The level of illumination at the car controls, platform, car threshold and car landing sill shall be 5 foot candles (54 lux) minimum.

407.4.6 Elevator Car Controls.

Where provided, elevator car controls shall comply with 407.4.6 and 309.4.

407.4.6.2 Buttons.

Car control buttons with floor designations shall comply with 407.4.6.2 and shall be raised or flush.

EXCEPTION: In existing elevators, buttons shall be permitted to be recessed.

407.4.6.2.1 Size.

Buttons shall be 3/4 inch (19 mm) minimum in their smallest dimension.407.4.6.2.2 Arrangement Buttons shall be arranged with numbers in ascending order. When two or more columns of buttons are provided they shall read from left to right.

407.4.6.3 Keypads.

Car control keypads shall be in a standard telephone keypad arrangement and shall comply with 407.4.7.2.

407.4.6.4 Emergency Controls.

Emergency controls shall comply with 407.4.6.4.

407.4.6.4.1 Height.

Emergency control buttons shall have their centerlines 35 inches (890 mm) minimum

407.4.6.4.2 Location. Emergency controls, including the emergency alarm, shall be grouped at the bottom of the panel.

407.4.7 Designations and Indicators of Car Controls.

Designations and indicators of car controls shall comply with 407.4.7.

407.4.7.1 Buttons. Car control buttons shall comply with 407.4.7.1.

407.4.7.1.1 Type. Control buttons shall be identified by tactile characters complying with 703.2

407.4.7.1.2 Location.

Raised character and braille designations shall be placed immediately to the left of the control button to which the designations apply.

407.4.7.1.3 Symbols.

The control button for the emergency stop, alarm, door open, door close, main entry floor, and phone, shall be identified with tactile symbols as shown in Table 407.4.7.1.3.

407.4.8 Car Position Indicators.

Audible and visible car position indicators shall be provided in elevator cars.

407.4.8.1 Visible Indicators. Visible indicators shall comply with 407.4.8.1.4.

407.4.8.1.1 Size. Characters shall be 1/2 inch (13 mm) high minimum.407.4.8.1.2 Location. Indicators shall be located above the car control panel or above the door.

407.4.8.1.3 Floor Arrival.

As the car passes a floor and when a car stops at a floor served by the elevator, the corresponding character shall illuminate.

EXCEPTION: Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with 407.4.8.1.3 provided that the visible indicators extinguish when the call has been answered.

407.4.8.1.4 Destination Indicator.

In destination-oriented elevators, a display shall be provided in the car with visible indicators to show car destinations.

407.4.8.2 Audible Indicators.

Audible indicators shall comply with

407.4.8.2.407.4.8.2.1 Signal Type.

The signal shall be an automatic verbal annunciator which announces the floor at which the car is about to stop.

EXCEPTION: For elevators other than destination-oriented elevators that have a rated speed of 200 feet per minute (1 m/s) or less, a non-verbal audible signal with a frequency of 1500 Hz maximum which sounds as the car passes or is about to stop at a floor served by the elevator shall be permitted.

407.4.8.2.2 Signal Level.

The verbal annunciator shall be 10 dB minimum above ambient, but shall not exceed 80 dB, measured at the annunciator.

407.4.8.2.3 Frequency.

The verbal annunciator shall have a frequency of 300 Hz minimum to 3000 Hz maximum.

407.4.9 Emergency Communication.

Emergency two-way communication systems shall comply with 308. Tactile symbols and characters shall be provided adjacent to the device and shall comply with 703.2.

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