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Live/Work Unit Information
from Chamberbrook Design Guide
by Hanbury
What is a live/work unit?
A live/work unit is defined as a single unit (e.g., studio, loft, or one bedroom) consisting of both a commercial/office and a residential component that is occupied by the same resident. The live/work unit is the primary dwelling of the occupant.
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What are the design criteria for a live/work unit?
1. The live/work unit is permitted to be not greater than 3,000 square feet in area.
2. The nonresidential area is permitted to be not more than 50 percent of the area of each live/work unit.
3. The nonresidential area function shall be limited to the first or main floor only of the live/work unit.
4. Not more than five nonresidential workers or employees are allowed to occupy the nonresidential area at any one time.
5. Storage can be provided, but not the total squared footage cannot exceed 10 percent of the total area.
How must egress be provided within and from a live/work unit?
The means of egress components for a live/work unit shall be designed in accordance with the Virginia Construction Code. Spiral stairways are permitted in live/work units.
Can a live/work unit be detached?
A detached dwelling unit would simply be considered a separate dwelling. Live/Work Units are classified as Group R-2 occupancy.
What fire protection systems are requirements for a live/ work unit?
The live/work unit shall be provided with a monitored fire alarm system and an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with the Virginia Construction Code. Floor openings between floor levels are permitted without enclosure. Interior Samples
TYPICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Typical Lot Size Width: 18–25 Feet Depth: 85–120 Feet Area: 1,520–3,000 Squared Feet Or 0.04–0.07 Acres
Unit Typical Unit Size: 1,000–3,000 Squared Feet
Building Dimensions Width: 18–25 Feet Depth: 35–55 Feet Height: 25–40 Feet Floors: 2–3 Stories
Density Net Density: 14–29 Units Per Acre Gross Density: 11–20 Units Per Acre
Parking Parking Ratio: 1 Per Unit
Ideal Setbacks: Front: 10–25 Feet Side: 0–12 Feet Rear: 30–60 Feet Accessory: 10–20 Feet TYPICAL FLOOR PLAN
25FT 45FT
