This is where it gets interesting because unlike a cube where there is really only one way to shape it, a "cube" with a sloped top can be shaped many ways for example...
But what's really the difference? They each can have similar slopes, and the difference in surface/volume ratio that I talked about earlier is insignificant. Do these shapes and roof styles possess any inherent advantages over each other? At this point siting becomes an important factor, but let's assume that any site is available.My quick evaluation:
- 2, 3 & 7 have more ridges which add to the complexity & cost
- 4 & 5 are simpler, with 4 being the simplest.
- 2 & 7 are symmetrical, while 1, 3, 4, 5 & 6 offer unique properties to different sides while adding to the sense of 'front and back'
- 1, 2 & 3 are very conventional, while the rest are more unique.
9 comments:
Well I suppose #1 could be about as simple as #4
if you have a rafter span longer than most rafters it may be as easy to use the center ridge rather than one continues slope.
Also a more complex roof would be harder to insulate. If you are trying to shed snow it would take a steeper pitch.
There are just to many unknown factors to say what is the best choice from a functional standpoint.
One story or two or more?
Good points, thanks.
Is there a general rule of thumb for how effective a slope is for shedding snow?
The house will probably be at least two stories... I'm going for aprox. 2000 - 2500 sqft and getting that on one story in a cube shaped house would lead to some tall ceilings!
thanks
You are trying to design with tunnel vision. These design issues are all interrelated and therefore should not be approached one at a time.
For example, if reducing the heat loss were the most important issue you could just reduce the size and number of the windows.
Before proposing solutions to a problem you must first carefully define it and you can't do that when several of the major elements are missing.
I recommend that you select the site first, then think about how you like to live and how you will relate to the site, then think about how to enclose these program elements with materials and shapes that reinforce and support these ideas.
Bucky Fuller said and did a lot of interesting things but I wouldn't want to live in one of his houses.
Well said, the other anonymous. Unfortunately this project is going backwards!
Well you have to start somewhere. I think it is OK to muse on these things because it stimulates ideas and discussion.
The question of what is the difference between various roof designs is valid at any point.
But the main point here is that there is not a "perfect" shape or a "best" roof in itself.
First the needs have to be defined.
What will function best in your climate and for your life style?
A good home would be one that promotes a good quality of life for you.
I think almost all designers will say that ideally the site comes before the design.
Thanks for all your thoughts.
It's true that every consideration affects every previous and future one, and design is always a game of back and forth. Unfortunately blogs are a very linear medium, so things will be coming one at a time here...
My hope is that people will embrace the topics at hand without the worry that it will be chiseled into some stone blueprint.
That said, it's clear I need a post about my intended lifestyle and values.
peace
You might want to consider transferring your project to my forum.
It was created just for this type of open design concept. I think you will find the forum format to be much less linear and more flexible.
http://www.inspiredhabitat.com/community/index.php
oops, I'll try again:
http://www.inspiredhabitat.com/community/index.php
I have to agree with other Anonymous about interrelated design issuses. I have tried to design a shed type home but one consideration is the span of the roof. (Snow Loads) If it needs to clear span more then 16-20ft things begin to get much more costly very quickly. For many a 16 foot wide long trailer kind of space doesn't work. However a rectangle set partially in the ground with a second story set above is your best shape when considering your most bang for the buck. Some variation on the raised ranch concept. You may also want to look at http://healthyhomeplans.com/home_plans/home_plan_detail.php?plan_id=153&start
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