Universal Space in Dwelling – the Room for All Living Needs

Abstract

Composition and spatial organization of the dwelling can vary due to the multiple factors, such as economical, climatic and cultural, but the functional organization of dwelling is defined by basic human activities. Universal dwelling can be based on principle – every space inside can easily change its function. As soon as dwelling is observed through its inhabitant, it is important to evaluate, how the structure is corresponding towards his constantly changing needs, and how to find the most effective and reasonable way for adaptation. Construction of the universal dwelling brings it to the other level of sustainability – dwelling spaces can be used more effectively by the users, and new living activity will not need significant additional material, time and financial resources. The study starts from the listing of all the variety of living actions, which are mentioned in dwelling space standards of 31 European countries and 7 regions. The frequency of reference of the monofunctional and multifunctional habitable rooms is evaluated. The universality of the room depends on the number of different activities, which can be performed in it without changing of its physical properties. The outcome of the work is the set of three criteria, which define the universality of the dwelling and its parts. Universality in use is directly connected with the size of the given space, which means, that the biggest required size for the living activity is the minimal size of the room to become universal. The width of the room is the second key factor, which defines the universality in use. The maximal width is required for the living room, which establishes the minimal width of the space to be universal. Access to the room is a third factor and rooms with one point of access are considered to be universal.