Guides
Guides for planning your house and home
From zoning and building permits to furniture in real measurements. Read, then try it on your own drawing.
Permits & zoning
Zoning and setbacks explained
What your zoning district allows on your lot: setbacks, lot coverage, height limits, easements and HOA rules in plain English.
Read the guide · 6 minBuilding permit checklist – step by step
From zoning check to certificate of occupancy: drawings, plan review, fees, inspections and how long permits last.
Read the guide · 6 minDrawing your own permit drawings – what is required
Site plan, floor plans, elevations and sections at 1/4" = 1'-0" – what US building departments normally expect.
Read the guide · 6 minBackyard ADUs – size, height and permits
Accessory dwelling unit basics: typical size and height limits, setbacks, utilities and when a backyard studio becomes an ADU.
Read the guide · 5 minLayout & furnishing
Furniture clearance guide – walkways and free space
How much space around the dining table, bed and sofa? Practical clearances in inches for comfortable rooms.
Read the guide · 4 minPlanning a bathroom – sizes and accessibility
Turning circle, toilet clearances, shower sizes and ADA-inspired guidance for home bathrooms.
Read the guide · 4 minRenovating a condo: how to plan it right
Remodeling a condo or co-op? How to plan the layout, bathroom, electrical and noise – and what to check with your HOA or board before work starts.
Read the guide · 8 minConstruction
Wood framing basics – studs at 16 inches on center
Sill plate, studs, top plates and headers: how a typical US stick-framed wall is built.
Read the guide · 4 minBuilding a mountain cabin – layout, permits and common mistakes
Planning a mountain cabin in Colorado or the Rockies? How to design for snow, mudrooms, ski storage and sleeping space – and what to check with the county first.
Read the guide · 8 min