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Sean and Julie have three young children and are planning to build a new house - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2015
Question 1(a)
Sean and Julie have three young children and are planning to build a new house. The diagram below shows the floor plan for the house. (i) Evaluate the suitability o... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Sean and Julie have three young children and are planning to build a new house - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2015
Step 1
Evaluate the suitability of this house plan for Sean, Julie and family.
Answer
The house plan is quite suitable for Sean, Julie, and their three young children. Each child has their own bedroom, which is essential for privacy and personal space. The bedrooms are spacious enough to accommodate study desks and toy storage, providing a conducive environment for both study and play.
The plan includes a garage that could potentially be converted into a playroom, a necessity for young children to ensure they have dedicated space for play.
Furthermore, the large kitchen and living area serve as a hub for family gatherings and entertaining guests, fostering family bonds. The separate lounge allows for quiet time and relaxation, which is crucial when children require downtime. Overall, the design caters well to the dynamic needs of a family with young children.
Step 2
Suggest two modifications (changes) that could be made to the house plan in order to cater for family needs in the future.
Answer
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Convert the Garage: The garage can initially serve its purpose but should later be transformed into a playroom or study to accommodate the evolving needs of the children as they grow.
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Add a Utility Room with Storage: Incorporating a utility room that also serves as extra storage space will help manage the family’s belongings efficiently and keep the living areas uncluttered.
Step 3
Name and describe three professional services used when designing and building a new house.
Answer
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Architect: They provide expertise in designing the house layout according to the clients’ needs and preferences. They help in making applications for building permissions and ensure that construction complies with local guidelines.
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Surveyor: They assess the land and evaluate the site conditions. They identify potential problems and advise on how to deal with them, ensuring that the building structure is sound and sustainable.
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Builder: Builders oversee the practical construction of the house, managing the workforce, materials, and timelines. They maintain compliance with building regulations and certifications throughout the construction process.
Step 4
Why is it necessary to obtain planning permission when building a house?
Answer
Obtaining planning permission is vital as it ensures that the construction adheres to local zoning laws and regulations. This protects community interests by ensuring that new buildings are in harmony with existing structures and the environment. Additionally, it helps avoid future legal disputes related to land use and property rights.