Space Planning in Renovation Projects: Designing for Comfort and Functionality

Why Space Planning Matters

A poorly planned space can feel cramped, awkward, or even unsafe, no matter how nice the finishes are. Space planning considers how people move, interact, and live in a home. It’s about flow, proportion, and balance — and when done right, it makes a space feel natural and easy to use.

General Flow and Circulation

• Walkways and Hallways: Allow at least 36 inches of clearance for comfortable passage.

• Doorways: Standard interior doorways are 30–32 inches wide, but wider (36 inches) improves accessibility.

• Furniture Clearance: Leave at least 18 inches between sofas and coffee tables so people can move without bumping knees.

These clearances create a natural rhythm in the home, keeping spaces open without wasting square footage.

Kitchens: The Work Triangle and Clearances

The kitchen is often the busiest room in the house. Good planning makes it efficient and enjoyable.

• Work Triangle: Keep the path between the sink, stove, and refrigerator between 12 and 26 feet total for efficiency.

• Aisles: Leave 42 inches of clearance for one cook and 48 inches if two people will be cooking together.

• Countertops: Provide at least 15 inches of landing space on each side of major appliances (stove, fridge, sink).

• Islands: Allow 36–48 inches around an island to ensure comfortable circulation.

Bathrooms: Comfort in Small Spaces

Bathrooms often have less square footage, which makes planning especially important.

• Toilet Clearance: Allow at least 21 inches in front of a toilet and 15 inches from centerline to any wall or obstruction.

• Vanities: Leave 30 inches per user for double sinks and 21 inches clearance in front for comfortable use.

• Showers: A shower should be at least 30x30 inches, though 36x36 inches is far more comfortable.

• Bathtubs: If adding a soaking tub, ensure at least 60 inches length and 30 inches width for comfort.

Living Rooms: Balancing Comfort and Function

Living spaces should encourage both relaxation and interaction.

• Seating Arrangements: Keep seats 8–10 feet apart for conversation.

• TV Viewing: Place seating at a distance equal to about 1.5 times the diagonal size of your TV.

• Pathways: Leave at least 30 inches of clearance behind seating so traffic can flow without disruption.

Bedrooms: Rest and Practicality

Bedrooms are about comfort, but function matters too.

• Bed Clearance: Allow 24 inches between a bed and the wall for ease of movement.

• Closets: Standard reach-in closets need at least 24 inches depth, while walk-ins should have at least 36 inches clearance in the walkway.

• Circulation: Position doors so they don’t block usable wall space for furniture.

Outdoor Spaces: Extending Livable Area

Decks, porches, and patios are part of life in Beaufort — and they need just as much planning.

• Dining Areas: Allow 30 inches per person at an outdoor table.

• Walkways: Just like indoors, aim for at least 36 inches clearance.

• Decks: If you’re designing for entertaining, plan at least 20x20 feet for a table and seating area, or larger if you want space for both dining and lounging.

Bringing It All Together

Space planning is about respecting human scale — creating rooms that feel intuitive, comfortable, and well-proportioned. Whether you’re renovating a historic Beaufort cottage or designing a new build on Lady’s Island, these rules keep your home functional for years to come.

At Island Town Construction, we combine design expertise with construction know-how to guide homeowners through space planning from start to finish. From custom kitchens to whole-home renovations, we make sure every inch of your home works beautifully for the way you live.