The size of a bedroom generally does not include the closet space. The area is measured by the room's floor space without the closet. However, this can vary due to different designs and local regulations.
For accurate measurements, it's recommended to check the floor plans or speak with the architect or builder.
Understanding Bedroom Measurements
When measuring a bedroom, it's important to distinguish between the total area, which includes closet space, and the main room size that doesn't include the closet. The overall square footage can be misleading if the space without the closet doesn't meet the main living area requirements. Real estate listings and architectural plans should clearly differentiate between the total bedroom size and the space excluding the closet.
Including closet space in bedroom measurements is common because it adds to the room's total area. However, buyers and builders should note that room dimensions typically don't cover the closet. The non-closet space should still meet the minimum size required by local building codes to qualify as a legal bedroom.
Walk-in closets are popular and affect how spacious a bedroom feels. A walk-in closet should be at least 6 feet by 6 feet to provide enough storage and movement space. When assessing a bedroom's size, consider the dimensions of the room and the closet separately to ensure each meets necessary standards and functional requirements.
In essence, knowing the detailed dimensions of a bedroom, including the closet, is key for proper evaluation, practical use, and adherence to building codes. This information is critical for determining property value and functionality.
Legal Bedroom Criteria
Legal bedroom criteria include several specific requirements to ensure the safety and habitability of the space. These regulations typically mandate a minimum room size, which is generally 70 to 80 square feet, with at least 7 feet in any horizontal direction to accommodate furniture and allow for movement.
A bedroom must have two exits: a door and a window large enough to be used in an emergency. The window should have a minimum size of 5.7 square feet to serve as both an escape route and an entry point for rescue while providing adequate ventilation and natural light.
The ceiling height must also be a minimum of 7 feet to ensure comfortable movement and reduce the risk of injury.
Although closets are commonly found in bedrooms, they are not required by most housing codes to define a space as a bedroom.
Local building codes should be checked for any additional requirements. Compliance with these criteria is essential for legal adherence and the safety of occupants.
Bedroom Vs. Closet Dimensions
When measuring bedroom dimensions, it's important to separate the bedroom itself from any connected closet space. The International Code Council (ICC) does not require a closet for a room to qualify as a bedroom, while the National Association of Realtors (NAR) believes a closet is necessary for this designation.
A bedroom must be at least 70 square feet with each dimension being at least 7 feet, as per ICC standards, not including closet space. If a bedroom has a walk-in closet, typically 6 by 6 feet, it can affect the room's overall feel and use.
Practices differ among builders and architects; some include the closet in the bedroom's size, others do not. It's important to consult with the relevant professional for accurate information. Regardless of closet inclusion, the bedroom itself must meet the minimum size requirement.
Impact of Building Codes
Building codes do not require a closet for a room to be considered a bedroom. However, they set important standards for size and safety features. These standards include minimum square footage, egress requirements, ceiling height, and window size to ensure safety, habitability, and adequate ventilation.
Every bedroom must have two exits in case of an emergency, typically a door and a window. These egress requirements are strictly enforced for safety.
Building codes also dictate minimum ceiling heights and window sizes, affecting a room's airiness and light. Furthermore, they regulate heating and cooling to ensure comfort.
While closets are not required by most building codes for a room to qualify as a bedroom, real estate professionals may take closet space into account when evaluating the room's usefulness and value. Knowledge of local building codes is essential for these professionals to assess and represent bedrooms accurately, as these codes affect legal definitions and market perceptions of bedrooms.
Standard Closet Specifications
Standard closet dimensions differ by type. Walk-in closets require a minimum of 6 by 6 feet, or 36 square feet, to be functional and add value to a home. Although the International Code Council does not require closets for a room to be considered a bedroom, the National Association of Realtors notes that walk-in closets can enhance a property's appeal and value. Custom walk-in closets, larger than the standard, are often viewed as a luxury feature.
For non-walk-in bedroom closets, sizes vary widely and depend on the bedroom's overall size and the home's design. In homes with small or no closets, alternative storage options like clothing racks, dressers, and wardrobes are important for organization and functionality.
Adding Value With Closets
Well-designed closets in a home, especially in the master bedroom, can increase the property's market value. Homebuyers often value ample storage space, and a spacious, organized closet can be a key selling point. It is important to recognize that functional storage solutions can enhance the overall square footage of a bedroom.
Master bedrooms are expected to be comfortable and luxurious, and a large walk-in closet can contribute to that atmosphere. A recommended size for these closets is 7 by 10 feet, which can improve both the appeal and functionality of the bedroom, thereby adding value.
Custom walk-in closets are a feature of high-end homes. They offer organization and can be customized, which may lead to a higher perceived value and asking price. Including a well-appointed closet can provide a strategic advantage in home valuation.
Alternatives to Traditional Closets
Three practical alternatives to traditional closets are clothing racks, dressers, and modular organizer systems. These provide flexible storage solutions suited to different space and organizational requirements.
In densely populated cities such as New York, where space is at a premium, residents often opt for these alternatives to make the most of their living areas.
Clothing racks offer an open storage format for hanging clothes, useful for people with a smaller wardrobe or those who want easy access to frequently worn items.
Dressers provide hidden storage with drawers for organizing folded clothes and small items.
Modular organizer systems can be customized to fit specific spaces and needs, combining hanging areas, shelves, and drawers. They are adaptable to changing storage requirements.
These storage options can help maximize space efficiency and contribute to the room's overall aesthetic when chosen and arranged thoughtfully.
Final Considerations on Bedroom Size
A closet affects the sense of space in a bedroom, but the room's actual size is what matters for its suitability and value. The closet contributes to the total square footage, but buyers usually focus on the living space. Therefore, when evaluating bedroom size, the practical and aesthetic effects of including or excluding the closet in the measurements should be considered.
For a master bedroom, a larger closet is expected, affecting its size and value. The master suite's worth is linked to comfort and luxury, often reflected in significant closet space. When considering bedroom size, the closet should enhance room functionality without compromising the ability to fit essential furniture and allow for easy movement.
