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Bed Alcove

Opening context:
Bed Cluster, Communal Sleeping, Marriage Bed, A Room of One’s Own

Conflict

Bedrooms make no sense.

Resolution

Don’t put single beds in empty rooms called bedrooms, but instead put individual bed alcoves off rooms with other nonsleeping functions, so the bed itself becomes a tiny private haven.

If you are building a very small house no more than 300 or 400 square feet — perhaps with the idea of adding to it gradually — this pattern plays an essential role. it will probably be best then to put the alcoves off the family room.

Closing context:
Ceiling Height Variety, Thick Walls, Natural Doors and Windows, Dressing Room, The Shape of Indoor Space