143

Bed Cluster

Opening context:
Couple’s Realm, Children’s Realm, Sleeping to the East

Conflict

Every child in the family needs a private place, generally centred around the bed. But in many cultures, perhaps all, young children feel isolated if they sleep alone, if their sleeping area is too private.

Resolution

Place the children’s beds in alcoves or small alcove-like rooms, around a common playspace. Make each alcove large enough to contain a table, or chair, or shelves — at least some floor area, where each child has his own things. Give the alcoves curtains looking into the common space, but not walls or doors, which will tend once more to isolate the beds too greatly.

Closing context:
Communal Sleeping, Bed Alcove, Children’s Realm, Dressing Room, Child Caves