Pathful's Industry-Led Projects provide authentic simulated work experiences that
mirror real industry challenges. Developed with industry professionals, these
projects place students in realistic workplace scenarios where they develop both
technical skills and professional competencies.
In this project, students become junior architects designing a tiny home prototype
for The Veterans Village, a nonprofit providing transitional housing for veterans
experiencing homelessness. Working for Pathful Architecture Studios, students
research accessibility standards, trauma-informed design, and tiny home best
practices to create a comprehensive 350 sq ft home design. Deliverables include
scaled floor plans, site plans arranging 12-16 homes, exterior elevations, detailed
kitchen/bathroom layouts, design narrative, specifications, and cost analysis
demonstrating budget-conscious decisions while maintaining dignity and
functionality.
Industry-Led Projects
Instructor Overview
Teacher’s Guide: Junior Architect: Homes for Heroes
Contents
Project Phase Overview
Pacing Guides
Assessment Options
Additional Resources
Instructor Overview
Materials Needed
Project Implementation Options
Working with Industry Professionals
Materials Needed
Standard Implementation (6+ weeks) Complete all six project phases with full
scaffolding and research components.
Condensed Implementation (2 weeks to 2 days) See pacing guides below for
abbreviated versions suitable for shorter timeframes.
Enhanced Implementation with Industry Professional Incorporate live virtual
sessions with industry professionals for authentic feedback and mentorship.
Project Implementation Options
AutoCAD, SketchUp, or other 2D
drafting & 3D modeling design
software
Office productivity and visual design
software (Microsoft Office, Google
Workspace, Canva, etc.)
Industry professionals provide three types of virtual sessions to enhance project
authenticity:
Kick-Off Session (30-45 minutes): Industry professional provides context
about the challenge, explains its real-world importance, clarifies success
criteria, and answers student questions. Students should come prepared with
specific questions about industry practices and project expectations.
Midpoint Check-In (45-60 minutes): Professional reviews student progress,
provides guidance on problem-solving approaches, offers refinement
suggestions, and helps students overcome obstacles. Students should be
prepared to share what they've accomplished so far and come with specific
questions about any roadblocks or pain points they're experiencing. Best
scheduled after Phase 3 (Stakeholders).
Final Presentation (45-60 minutes): Students present their solutions to the
professional for evaluation, discuss real-world application potential, and
receive career insights. Professional provides authentic feedback on solution
viability and presentation quality.
Working with Industry Professionals
Overview
Industry-Led Projects
Timeline Requirements
Submit session requests at least 3 weeks in advance
Propose specific dates for each session type needed
Sessions typically last up to 45-60 minutes
Student Preparation Protocol BEFORE the
Kick-Off Session, students must:
1.Review the welcome letter
2.Read the project overview and
requirements
3.Examine all project resources and
materials
4.Prepare specific questions about the
industry context and project
expectations
This preparation ensures students can
engage meaningfully with the industry
professional rather than hearing about the
project for the first time.
Prepare for Kick-
Off Session
Complete the following activities
prior to first virtual session with
industry professional.
FlexLesson Activity Checklist
Introduction
Read Project Overview
View Project Resources
Project Phase Overview
Phase 0: TEACHER PREP
Review materials and select implementation timeline
Determine student groupings (teams of 2-4 or individual work)
Choose assessment approach (process rubric, employability skills rubric, or custom)
If using industry professional sessions, submit requests 3+ weeks in advance
Prepare students with project materials before any industry kickoff session
Phase 1: KICK-OFF
Students review materials, understand
project goals, and establish team roles.
Phase 2: RESEARCH
Students conduct research on the problem
and industry, including stakeholder analysis.
FlexLesson Activity Checklist
Introduction
Read Project Overview
View Project Resources
Checkpoint 1
Plan for the Project
FlexLesson Activity Checklist
Learn About Research
Complete Your Research
Checkpoint 2
Learn About Stakeholders
Consider Stakeholders
Phase 3: IDEATE
Students generate multiple solution
approaches through structured ideation.
Phase 4: FINALIZE
Students evaluate options and develop
their chosen solution in detail
FlexLesson Activity Checklist
Learn About Brainstorming
Develop a List of Solutions
FlexLesson Activity Checklist
Learn About Narrowind Down Ideas
Narrow Down Ideas
Phase 5: PRESENT
Students prepare and deliver final
presentations of their solutions
FlexLesson Activity Checklist
Learn About Presentaitons
Checkpoint 3
Create Your Presentation
Submit Assignment
Industry-Led Projects
Phase
Timing
Notes
Phase 1: KICK-OFF
.5 week
Optional: Kickoff Session with industry (request 3+
weeks ahead)
Extension: Career research using Pathful resources
Phase 2: RESEARCH
1.5 week
Extention: Require multiple research methods (online
research + surveys/interviews); include research
findings in final presentation
Optional: Midpoint industry check-in (request 3+
weeks ahead)
Phase 3: IDEATE
1 week
Extension: Peer solution sharing and feedback
Phase 4: FINALIZE
2 weeks
Extension: Prototype and test multiple solutions
Phase 5: PRESENT
1 week
Minimum 3 days preparation
Optional: Industry feedback session (request 3+
weeks ahead)
6+ weeks, 30+ hours of student work
Phase
Timing
Notes on timing
Phase 1: KICK-OFF
1 day
Preview project overview in advance
Phase 2: RESEARCH
3 days
Consider homework time for interviews/surveys
Phase 3: IDEATE
3 days
Combine phases 3-4
Phase 4: FINALIZE
Phase 5: PRESENT
3 days
Optional: Industry feedback session if requested (3+
weeks ahead)
2 weeks, 10-20 hours of student work
Pacing Guides
Industry-Led Projects
Phase
Timing
Notes on timing
Phase 1: KICK-OFF
2 days
Combine phases 1-2; online research only
Phase 2: RESEARCH
Phase 3: IDEATE
1 day
Combine solution building and testing
Phase 4: FINALIZE
Phase 5: PRESENT
2 days
Reduced complexity; 1 day prep, 1 day present
Optional: Industry feedback session (request 3+
weeks ahead)
1 week, about 5 hours of student work
Phase
Timing
Notes on timing
Phase 1: KICK-OFF
-----
Preview project overview in advance
Phase 2: RESEARCH
1 day
Online research only; theoretical solution testing
Phase 3: IDEATE
Phase 4: FINALIZE
Phase 5: PRESENT
1 day
Reduced complexity
No live industry feedback
2 days, about 2 hours of student work
Industry-Led Projects
Industry-Led Projects
Formative Assessment: FlexLesson Checkpoints The project includes three built-
in checkpoints that serve as formative assessments to monitor student
understanding and progress. Teachers can set specific deadlines for each
checkpoint to control project pacing:
Checkpoint 1: Students summarize their understanding of project expectations
and requirements
Checkpoint 2: Students describe major research takeaways and identify any
roadblocks or troubleshooting issues they've encountered
Checkpoint 3: Students outline the main points they plan to present in their
final presentation and note any remaining concerns
Assessment Options
Summative Assessment: Grading Rubrics
Project Process Rubric: Focuses on research quality, analysis, organization,
creativity, and presentation skills.
Employability Skills Rubric: Emphasizes communication, initiative, teamwork, time
management, and professional behaviors.
Both rubrics use a 4-point scale (Exceeds Expectations, Meets Expectations, Needs
Some Improvement, Needs Significant Improvement).
Additional Resources
Requesting Industry Professional Sessions Submit requests for industry mentorship
or feedback as a live WBL session at least 3 weeks before desired dates. For
instructions on requesting a WBL session, click here. In the request, include:
Project stage (Kick-off, Midpoint, or Final)
Specific learning objectives for the session
Any special considerations or requirements
Alternative dates and times
Project Materials* All resources are available in the corresponding FlexLesson,
including:
Complete project onboarding document
Industry terminology glossary
Supporting authentic documents
Grading Rubrics* Assessments noted in the section above.
Certificate* Formal documentation of completion of project
*Project materials and grading rubrics follow this page.
Industry-Led Projects
Project Materials
(within the FlexLesson)
Industry-Led Projects
EMPLOYEE WELCOME LETTER
Pathful Architecture Studios
Dear New Team Member,
Pathful Architecture Studios is thrilled to have you join our Social Impact Design division as a Junior
Architect. It's an exciting time to join our team, and we believe you will be a valuable asset to our studio.
At Pathful Architecture Studios, we strive to create innovative, sustainable design solutions that serve
underserved communities and address critical housing needs. Without our commitment to thoughtful,
human-centered design, vulnerable populations would lack access to dignified housing that supports their
path toward stability and independence. What we do matters, and the role you will play within our
organization will help us continue to deliver impactful architectural solutions more effectively and
compassionately.
One of your initial assignments involves designing a tiny home prototype and site plan for The Veterans
Village, a nonprofit organization creating supportive housing for veterans experiencing homelessness.
This project presents an important opportunity to demonstrate how architecture can balance complex
requirements, such as accessibility standards, building codes, trauma-informed design principles, budget
constraints, and most importantly, the dignity and well-being of residents who have served our country.
Your new employee onboarding document will outline the project and goals for each step. Again,
congratulations, and good luck!
Sincerely,
Human Resources Department
NEW EMPLOYEE ONBOARDING DOCUMENT
Welcome to Pathful Architecture Studios
We're so glad you've joined the team! This guide provides team-specific information to help you get off to a
great and productive start in your new role as a Junior Architect.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Project Summary
1
Your Team
2
Status Update Meeting(s)
2
ONBOARDING TASKLIST
Plan for the Project
3
Complete Your Research
3
Consider Stakeholders
4
Brainstorm Solutions
4
Narrow Down Ideas
5
Create Your Presentation
5
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Project Summary
As a Junior Architect at Pathful Architecture Studios, you've been assigned to design a tiny home prototype
for The Veterans Village, a nonprofit organization that creates transitional housing communities for veterans
experiencing homelessness. The Veterans Village operates supportive housing villages where veterans live
in individual tiny homes while receiving case management services and working toward employment,
healthcare access, and permanent housing stability.
This puts you in a unique professional position. Your design must honor the service and sacrifice of our
nation's veterans while working within significant constraints—approximately 350 square feet must
accommodate a full kitchen, complete bathroom, and sleeping/living area. The homes serve as transitional
housing where residents typically stay 12-24 months, so this is not an emergency shelter but rather a true
home that supports their journey toward independence.
Your task is to research best practices in tiny home design, accessibility standards, trauma-informed
architecture, and veteran-centered supportive housing, then create a comprehensive design proposal that
demonstrates how thoughtful architecture can create dignity, independence, and healing within a compact
footprint.
The deliverables for this project include:
●
Scaled floor plan (1/4" = 1'-0" scale) showing complete layout with dimensions and annotations
●
Site Plan showing arrangement of 12-16 tiny homes on the provided site.
●
Exterior elevations (minimum two views) showing building character and materials
●
Kitchen detail layout with appliances, fixtures, and storage
●
Bathroom detail layout with accessibility features and fixture placement
●
Design narrative (2-3 pages) explaining your design and site plan approach, decisions, and how
you addressed program requirements
●
Specifications summary documenting materials, fixtures, and major systems
●
Cost analysis demonstrating budget-conscious design decisions
You will present your design and explain your approach. Your presentation time may vary because it may
include a short question-and-answer session. Note that you will need to follow these steps:
1.
Understand the project goals and make a plan for completing the work.
2.
Conduct research to fill in knowledge gaps.
3.
Identify and consider stakeholders who would be affected by the project.
4.
Brainstorm a list of solutions to propose.
5.
Narrow down the list to the most effective idea.
6.
Create and deliver a presentation of your final products.
Your team
You may be joined by other teammates to complete this project, or you may be asked to complete this as a
solo project. If you are working with a team, you will soon establish team roles based on the tasks that must
be performed. Example roles and responsibilities are provided with your resources. Spend time defining
roles and discussing which team member will fulfill which role. Then, document your decisions.
Status Update Meeting(s)
At any point during this project, you should be prepared to explain your level of understanding of the project
and what tasks you have completed. So, take detailed notes as you go.
ONBOARDING TASKLIST
Plan for the Project
1.
Review the project.
○
Compare what you learned about the project in the Project Overview and Project Resources.
○
Ask yourself questions about it, and then list your thoughts or answers to those questions to
help you decide how to approach the work. Some good questions to start with are:
■
What is the primary goal of this project?
■
What do I already know about this topic?
■
What do I still need to know to understand the project better?
■
How can each task be broken down into smaller, more manageable actions?
2.
Spend some time assigning team roles and responsibilities.
○
Review the list of example team roles and responsibilities. Based on the descriptions, which
ones are most appropriate for the success of this project?
○
Is there the same number of roles as the number of members on the team? If not, split or
combine responsibilities to fit your team's needs.
3.
Consider the following project guidelines:
○
Create a team communication plan that defines how everyone will document and report
their progress on individual responsibilities. This will help the team monitor progress towards
project goals.
○
Document research and decisions to be able to provide details to communicate your
progress.
○
As you complete each step, consider how you will incorporate your decisions into a final
presentation for your proposal.
Complete Your Research
Conduct your research and document your findings. Below is a list of suggested areas of research.
▢
Research universal design and accessibility standards for residential buildings, including basic ADA
guidelines and visitability principles that can be applied to tiny homes.
▢
Study the International Residential Code (IRC), particularly Appendix Q for tiny houses, focusing on
minimum room dimensions, ceiling heights, egress requirements, and structural standards.
▢
Research trauma-informed design principles and how they apply to housing for veterans,
particularly those who have experienced PTSD, homelessness, or other trauma.
▢
Investigate tiny home design precedents and case studies, analyzing how other designers have
maximized functionality and livability in compact spaces (300-500 square feet).
▢
Research cost-effective building materials and construction methods that balance durability,
aesthetics, and budget-consciousness for tiny home construction.
▢
Study kitchen and bathroom design standards for small spaces, including minimum fixture
dimensions, required clearances, and creative storage solutions.
▢
Research sustainable building practices and energy-efficient systems appropriate for tiny home
applications for local climate zones.
▢
Research examples of architectural design narratives to understand how architects effectively
communicate their design thinking, explain key decisions, and justify their approach in professional
documentation.
▢
Research site planning principles for tiny home villages (residential “cluster” developments) and
supportive housing communities, including how building arrangement affects privacy, social
interaction, accessibility, and psychological safety. Study how pathways, landscaping, and outdoor
spaces contribute to community cohesion and individual well-being.
Consider Stakeholders
The Veterans Village has been operating their tiny home community for three years with important lessons
learned from residents and staff. Current residents have provided feedback that the existing homes feel
dark and lack adequate storage, with kitchens that are too cramped for comfortable meal preparation.
Some veterans with mobility challenges have struggled with accessibility features. The Veterans Village's
small maintenance staff reports that certain design elements require excessive upkeep. The organization's
grant funders expect cost-effective, replicable solutions, while neighborhood associations want
developments that contribute positively to community character.
Consider the stakeholders impacted by your tiny home design and village site plan:
▢
Who are the different groups of stakeholders impacted by this project?
▢
What is important to each group?
▢
How will you get each group to buy into your proposal ideas?
Brainstorm Solutions
▢
Review your project's end goal, then think of as many possible solutions as possible. Be creative and
write down all possibilities.
Narrow Down Ideas
▢
Group or combine similar ideas together, then discuss the pros and cons of each option.
▢
Once you've compared your options, decide on your top-ranked solution(s).
Create Your Presentation
▢
Create a presentation that explains your research and final products.
▢
Determine how each team member will share the responsibility of delivering your presentation.
▢
Deliver presentation.
CLIENT INQUIRY EMAIL
FROM: Casey Lewis [clewis@theveteransvillage.org]
TO: Janelle Martinez, FAIA [janelle.martinez@pathfularchitecture.com]
DATE: [Current Date]
SUBJECT: Tiny Home Design RFP - New Village Expansion
Hi, Janelle,
I hope this email finds you well! I'm reaching out because we're in the planning phase for expanding our tiny home
village, and based on your firm's incredible work on the supportive housing project in Denver, I think Pathful Architecture
Studios would be a perfect fit for what we're trying to accomplish.
I’m not sure what you know about our background, but The Veterans Village has been operating our transitional housing
community for three years now, providing tiny homes for veterans experiencing homelessness. Our current model has
been successful, as we've housed over 80 veterans and helped 65% of them transition to permanent housing. But we've
learned a lot about what works and what could be improved.
We're looking to have a new prototype design developed that we can replicate as we expand to additional sites across
the region. The homes need to be approximately 350 square feet and fully self-contained with a kitchen, bathroom, and
sleeping/living area. This is permanent supportive housing, not emergency shelter, so residents typically stay 12-24
months while they work on employment, healthcare, and permanent housing goals.
We're also hoping you can help us think through the site planning for our expansion. We have a 2.5-acre parcel
adjacent to our current village with an existing community center building. We'd like to see how you would arrange 12-16
of your tiny home designs on this site to create a supportive, accessible community. The site layout is just as important
as the individual home design. We've learned that how homes relate to each other significantly impacts residents' sense
of safety, privacy, and community belonging.
Here are key priorities for the new design:
●
Dignity & autonomy: These are homes, not just shelter. Residents need to feel this is truly their space with
privacy, control over their environment, and the ability to live independently.
●
Accessibility: We need to accommodate veterans with varying mobility needs. Not every home needs to be
fully wheelchair accessible, but we want as many universal design features as possible so we can flexibly assign
homes based on individual needs.
●
Trauma-informed design: Many of our residents have PTSD or have experienced trauma. Design elements that
provide visual control over entry points, abundant natural light, and a sense of safety are important.
●
Community connection: While each home is private, they're part of a village. The design should encourage
residents to engage with the community when they're ready…maybe a front porch or entry area that allows for
social interaction without compromising privacy.
●
Durability & maintainability: These homes get lived in hard, and we have limited maintenance staff. We need
durable materials, simple systems, and designs that will hold up over time with reasonable maintenance.
●
Cost effectiveness: We're working with limited grant funding and donations, so we need to be good stewards of
every dollar. While we want quality homes that honor our residents, we also need cost-effective solutions that
allow us to serve as many veterans as possible. Smart material selections and efficient design will be crucial.
Some specifics from lessons learned:
●
Our current kitchen is too small; residents struggle with counter space and storage. A full-size refrigerator (not a
mini fridge) is important for dignity and normalcy.
●
The bathroom works well, but shower accessibility has been an issue for some residents. We'd like to explore
curbless or low-threshold options.
●
Storage is critical…more than you'd think for 350 SF. Veterans often have belongings from their former lives that
are important to them.
●
Natural light and ventilation make a huge difference for mental health. Our current design feels dark and
closed-in.
●
The entry/mudroom area is too small. There's no good place for coats, boots, or the transition from outside to
inside.
What we're looking for in the design:
●
Scaled floor plan showing layout with all dimensions
●
Site plan showing how 12-16 homes could be arranged on our expansion parcel to create a cohesive, welcoming
village community
●
Exterior elevations so we can understand the look and feel
●
Detailed kitchen and bathroom layouts
●
A design narrative of tiny home and site plan explaining your choices, your approach to balancing privacy with
community connection, and how they address our program requirements
●
Specifications for major materials and fixtures
●
A cost analysis showing your budget-conscious design decisions
Timeline: We're hoping to review design proposals in about 4 weeks and select a design to move forward with
construction documents. This would be the first phase of a larger relationship. If the prototype is successful, we'd want to
work with you on site planning for the expanded village and potentially on designs for other locations.
I've attached our formal design program requirements and information about our organization's mission. Please let me
know if you have questions or need any additional information.
These veterans have given so much in service to our country. Let's create housing that honors that service and supports
their path forward.
Thanks for considering this project!
Casey Lewis
Executive Director
The Veterans Village
c.lewis@theveteransvillage.org
CLIENT INQUIRY EMAIL, pg 2
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
THE VETERANS VILLAGE
Tiny Home Design Program Requirements Summary
Project: New Prototype Tiny Home Design
Summary by: Janelle Martinez
Date: [Current Date]
Total Building Area: Approximately 350 square feet (±10 SF acceptable)
Budget Approach: Cost-effective design with budget-conscious material selections
MANDATORY FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS
KITCHEN AREA (40-50 SF minimum)
Must Include:
●
Full-size refrigerator (minimum 18 cu. ft., standard depth acceptable)
●
4-burner range/oven (30" width standard)
●
Stainless steel sink (minimum 25" wide, single or double basin)
●
Minimum 4 linear feet of counter space (total, can be non-continuous)
●
Upper and lower cabinets for food and dish storage
●
Dedicated space for small appliances (microwave, coffee maker, toaster)
●
Minimum one electrical outlet per counter section
●
Window for natural light and ventilation
Design Considerations:
●
Counter height should accommodate seated work if possible
●
Storage for minimum 2 weeks of dry goods and pantry items
●
Easy-to-clean surfaces (no grout-intensive tile, avoid light-colored grout)
●
Durable cabinet hardware (lever handles preferred over knobs)
BATHROOM (25-35 SF minimum)
Must Include:
●
Full bathroom with toilet, sink, and shower (no tub required)
●
Shower minimum 32" x 32" interior dimension
●
Toilet with adequate clearance (minimum 15" from centerline to any wall/fixture)
●
Vanity sink with storage below or medicine cabinet above
●
Exhaust fan vented to exterior
●
Water-resistant flooring throughout
●
GFCI electrical outlets
●
Grab bar blocking in shower walls for future installation
Design Considerations:
●
Curbless shower or maximum 1/2" beveled threshold (accessibility)
●
Minimum 30" x 48" clear floor space in front of each fixture
●
Non-slip flooring in shower area
●
Adequate lighting (both ambient and task lighting at mirror)
●
Privacy from main living area (door or partition)
SLEEPING AREA (50-70 SF minimum for bedroom function)
Must Include:
●
Space for minimum full-size bed (54" x 75") with access on at least two sides OR queen-size bed (60" x 80") with
one-side access
●
Dedicated sleeping zone with privacy (can be alcove, separated area, or defined zone)
●
Window(s) providing natural light to sleeping area
●
Minimum one double electrical outlet near bed location
●
Storage for clothing (minimum 24 linear inches of closet rod OR equivalent dresser/wardrobe space)
Design Considerations:
●
Ceiling height minimum 6'8" over bed area (lofts acceptable if meeting egress codes)
●
Visual separation from kitchen/living areas for psychological boundaries
●
If using loft: safe access via stairs (not ladder) with handrail, minimum 35" headroom on stairs
●
Window treatment capability for sleep quality and privacy
LIVING/MULTI-PURPOSE SPACE (40-60 SF minimum)
Must Include:
●
Clear floor area for minimum one sofa/seating unit and small table OR multi-purpose table with chairs
●
Minimum two double electrical outlets
●
Window(s) for natural light
●
Space for personal items, decorations, or hobbies
Design Considerations:
●
This area may overlap with dining or sleeping zones in open concepts
●
Should feel distinct from bedroom for psychological separation of activities
●
Flexible use—residents may use as dining, work, exercise, or hobby space
●
Opportunity for personalization and displaying meaningful belongings
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS, pg 2
ENTRY/TRANSITION AREA (15-25 SF minimum)
Must Include:
●
Covered entry (minimum 3' x 3' porch or overhang)
●
Interior entry space for coats/shoes (hooks and bench or shelf)
●
Front door minimum 32" clear width (36" door preferred)
●
Door with deadbolt and viewing capability (window or peephole)
●
Exterior light fixture at entry
●
Level threshold or maximum 1/2" beveled threshold
Design Considerations:
●
Entry should provide visual control (ability to see who's outside before opening door—important for PTSD
considerations)
●
Weather protection for packages/deliveries
●
Space for muddy boots, wet coats without tracking into main living area
●
Entry design that welcomes but also provides security and sense of control
●
Potential for porch sitting and casual community interaction
STORAGE REQUIREMENTS (throughout home)
Minimum Storage Volumes:
●
Clothing storage: 24 linear feet of closet rod OR equivalent (approximately 36 cubic feet)
●
Kitchen storage: minimum 20 linear feet of cabinetry (upper and lower combined)
●
General storage: minimum 15 cubic feet (coat closet, cleaning supplies, personal items)
●
Bathroom storage: medicine cabinet or vanity with shelving
Design Considerations:
●
Built-in storage solutions preferred over requiring freestanding furniture
●
Vertical storage encouraged (shelving, tall cabinets, hooks)
●
Under-bed storage space if applicable
●
Multi-functional furniture zones (bench with storage, murphy desk, fold-down table)
ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES (Incorporate Where Possible)
Target Goal: Homes should accommodate residents with mobility aids and should include universal design features
even if not fully ADA-compliant.
Recommended Features:
●
36" wide doorways (32" clear width minimum)
●
5' diameter turning radius in main living area
●
Lever-style door handles and faucet controls (not knobs)
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS, pg 3
●
Light switches and thermostats at accessible heights (48" maximum)
●
Electrical outlets at 18" minimum height (reduces bending)
●
Knee space below sink (kitchen or bathroom) where feasible
●
Zero-step entry (or maximum one step with ramp capability)
●
Blocking in bathroom walls for future grab bar installation
●
Adjustable-height shower head with handheld option
●
Non-slip flooring throughout
●
Rocker-style light switches rather than toggle switches
BUILDING ENVELOPE & SYSTEMS
Exterior Walls:
●
Appropriate insulation for climate (typically R-13 to R-21 depending on region)
●
Weather-resistant barrier and siding
●
Durable, low-maintenance siding material (fiber cement, metal, or engineered wood preferred)
Roof:
●
Minimum 4:12 pitch for water drainage
●
Durable roofing material (architectural shingle or metal roofing)
●
Adequate overhangs for weather protection (minimum 12" eave overhang)
●
Ridge or gable vents for attic ventilation
Windows:
●
Double-pane, energy-efficient windows
●
Minimum 8% glazing area (windows as percentage of floor area) for natural light
●
Egress window in sleeping area meeting IRC requirements (minimum 5.7 SF opening, 24" high, 20" wide,
maximum 44" sill height)
●
Operable windows for natural ventilation
Foundation:
●
Pier and beam OR slab on grade acceptable
●
Must comply with typical frost depth and soil conditions
●
Insulated as required by energy code
Electrical:
●
100-amp service minimum
●
GFCI outlets in bathroom and kitchen
●
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (hardwired with battery backup)
●
Energy-efficient LED lighting throughout
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS, pg 4
HVAC:
●
Heating and cooling system appropriately sized for square footage
●
Energy-efficient system (mini-split heat pump or similar)
●
Programmable thermostat
●
Bathroom exhaust fan vented to exterior
Plumbing:
●
Standard municipal water hookup capability
●
Sewer or septic connection capability
●
Water heater (tankless or compact tank style)
●
Low-flow fixtures for water conservation
CODE COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS
All designs must meet IRC (International Residential Code) requirements including:
●
Minimum room dimensions per IRC and Appendix Q for tiny houses
●
Minimum ceiling heights (typically 7'6" for habitable rooms, with Appendix Q exceptions allowing 6'8")
●
Egress requirements (doors and emergency escape windows)
●
Structural requirements for loads and lateral forces
●
Energy code compliance for insulation and building envelope
AESTHETIC & EMOTIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Trauma-Informed Design Principles:
●
Natural light—maximize windows while maintaining privacy options
●
Visual control over entry points (ability to see outside before opening door)
●
Clearly defined personal territory and boundaries
●
Choices and control (adjustable lighting, temperature control, window coverings, personalization opportunities)
●
Calming colors and natural materials where budget allows
Design Character:
●
Residential character (should feel like a home, not institutional or utilitarian)
●
Simple, clean lines (modern, craftsman, or cottage aesthetic all acceptable)
●
Durable but not industrial-feeling materials
●
Exterior that contributes positively to village streetscape and surrounding neighborhood
●
Front entry that encourages porch sitting and community connection when desired
●
Welcoming but secure—balance between openness and protection
DESIGN REQUIREMENTS, pg 5