Small changes Huge results.

In the system of design. Building a building <- HAR!, Can create opportunities for change.
Suggest the changes you wish to see in buildings that are small with huge results.

Example. I would like to see building codes shift for having houses add photovoltaics to all new buildings (part of the cost of construction), as well as major remodels over 100,000. dollars in value.
Have fun. I look forward while dreaming in the past.

I noticed there is no topic for interesting design ideas so I thought I'd share this here:

I have always thought the square footage in bedrooms was underutilized when a bed was not in use. I have seen a number of folding beds and even platforms that lowered from the ceiling but this is the first time I saw one I think I could utilize creating it myself. I think I would partition with a concealing glass block wall and use the raised space as an ensuite or a walk in closet and storage space and the bedroom might feel a little cramped when the bed is pulled out but roll it away and you quickly have an extra room that would not be inappropriate for say an exercise equipment room ? or even an office ? this is a dated looking photo but interesting idea. I could also picture a rock masonary or cob fireplace between the 'bedroom' and the raised area if it was a bathroom that could be stunning as well as functional ? :



http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/insanely-clever-remodeling-ideas-for-your-new-home

I'd like to see buildings designed from the beginning as small, but positioned for growth as the needs and size of the inhabitants evolve. Kind of like the Enchilada.

Great comment Chris , wouldn't that fix those bankers if families put their money into their own welfare ( homes, businesses, education, experiences ) and not banks, mortgages and financial instruments? A pet peave of mine is lack of roof overhang protecting walls from moisture avoiding unneccessary mildew issues and giving shade during the heat of summer to increase the comfort of the inhabitants and perhaps inviting more transitional flow from inside living to outside areas and even garden rooms , so I think that design might be tweaked to better serve with more roof overhang .. I think even the sides designed to be built onto might have this overhang designed to be done beneficially to the future addition.

I'd like to see fewer building codes! With the onus being placed on the code authority...as in they have to prove it won't work instead of
me proving (see: getting an engineer's stamp) that it will work or me getting the law changed.

We live in an area that gets practically no sunlight in the winter....so requiring me to have a photovoltaic array at my house
is just another "rule" that's going to cost me money and do nothing to help keep me from freezing.

In our township the zoning codes require the home to be at least 800 square feet. How sad it THAT?!?!?

And, don't even get me started on the hoops you have to jump through to get even a small wind tower installed...it'll make you cry.

The point being that whenever you REQUIRE something, you're forcing people to invest their money in one thing, when another invention/idea might be better suited to the situation. And, even IF the code officials agree with you their hands are tied by "The Rules".

Nick and Lisa....I LOVE those pictures....That stairway is AMAZING and what a genius idea for a bed and dresser!!!

Too bad the Construction Codes would NEVER allow that stairway. Heck, they'd probably require a railing over the bed platform as well.