TonyDiethelm.life

By Fernando Pages Ruiz

I'm taking notes as I read it.

He's very wordy, it's kind of annoying.

Chapter 2, design.

• Weird shapes are hard to build, KISS, squares are good for cost/sqft.
• Architects tend to overdesign.
• put large openings on non load bearing walls, so you don't need big headers. I disagree, headers aren't that hard to do.
• Use a modular planning grid, 2'x2' or 4'x4' squares, so standard lumber works. KISS.
• Keep the footprint simple.
• Better to cantilever over a smaller foundation to increase size than to increase the foundation size, which is expensive if you're doing basements.
• When possible, design your foundation with a beam or wall down the center to reduce load on your joists.
• better to use taller windows than wider windows. They look better and require a smaller header.
• Limit window sizes. Easier for builders, and you standardize blinds.
• Don't put in unnecessary windows.
• Strive for elegance over frenzy.
• few upgrades deliver as much benefit at low cost as air tight construction and upgrade insulation.
• Choose a roof pitch between 4/12 and 5/12. Too shallow creates uplift forces, too steel creates high lateral forces.
• Use truss screws to hold the roof framing on.
• keep living spaces open
• make enough bedrooms for kids
• hallways are wasted space
• stairways should be straight runs. run parallel to floor framing so less headers, less interruptions to framing. We can't do that?
• use closets to provide acoustical breaks.
• Don't cramp the bathrooms.
• Make the kitchen bright.
• Pantries are good when cabinet space is limited, and can be placed in other rooms.
• Plumb and wire for the future. MUCH easier/cheaper to do while building than later.
• Attics rock.
• extend inner space outdoors with covered porches.
• architects hate garages. Home buyers love them. People don't want to carry groceries through weather.
• try to orient central living areas toward the most favorable outdoor views.
• put all your utilities in one trench.