Dormer Project Option 1

Option 1

Option 1 maintains most of the existing roof structure. A new dormer pops up above the existing roof, as the existing ceiling height is lower than the code allows (generally 7 ft., with some exceptions). This makes for a rather odd looking west elevation, but it may offer costs savings over option 2.


Upper Level
Total area: 683 sf

1 Bedroom 1 (12x14) has a 2’-6” x 9’-0” window seat (or doggy bed) space at the existing west window. ‘His’and ‘Her’ closets are each 3x5, with the north wall only about 3 ft. tall. Little saloon-style shutter doors would work well on those closets, or curtains that can be drawn back on either side. A queen size bed is shown under 3 high windows – this mirrors the 3 windows in the living room below. See south elevation.

2 Bedroom 2 (8x8) is rather small. We actually need anything labeled ‘bedroom’ to be at least 70 sf, per code. This space could be left open (without a door) and used for Lisa’s writing nook, then Bedroom 3 could have a bit more space.

3 Bedroom 3 (8x8) has a 3’-6” x 4’-6” nook or closet.

4 The bathroom is 7x9, with a 3x4 shower nook on the south side. FIberfab shower units are 6’-8” tall, and showers must have at least 6’-8” of headroom. If we place the shower on the north side, we will use a skylight to get the extra couple of required inches of headroom. A countertop is shown at the west side, where headroom is required at the stair. This spot can be used for the sink, or for built in shelving.

5 At the stair landing, we suggest locating the north wall back a bit, so that where the top of that wall meets the ceiling is around 3 ft. Dashed lines indicate skylights, which will make the space feel brighter and bigger. A larger skylight at the stair landing may be necessary to gain the appropriate headroom.