Dear Jonno
I have been reading your Farmer’s Weekly column for a long time and would like to ask for your advice. We have a structure that we intend building at home – I have attached a rough floor plan. Space is limited however, as we are based in town. We would like to build a workshop and storage facilities on the ground floor, and a thatched deck on top. The deck should have an open balcony, a small bar, a braai or fire area and an office.
It should also have a bath and shower as well as a sink and preparation area. It will be at a height of 6m because we want to have a view of the highway which is a kilometre away. It will also have to be raised by concrete beams and must fit within the given area.
We would like to have an idea to avoid confusion during the discussions with the builders and contractors.
We look forward to your reply.
Kind regards
Abantu
Greetings Abantu
Thanks for the rough sketch and your further needs. I have kept to your suggested sizes. One of the problems is that the deck is 6m above ground and requires stairs. Given the limited space available, can these stairs be placed on the outside of the building?
I have shown on the layout sketch how a ramp can be incorporated to decrease the number of steps and the overall width of the building. Please be aware that there might be a height restriction in your area due to town planning regulations. In addition, by building a kitchen and bathroom facilities, you are by law creating another living unit on your site.
You will have to check with your local town planning authorities if all this is permissible.
If it is you will find this a practical design, enabling you to work on the ground floor and relax in the entertainment area above.
I’ll wait to hear from you – best of luck.
Jonno
