Room observation

Comparing two possible positions without moving furniture

Comparing two positions on paper can reveal which questions deserve a site check.

Round low-table visualization with brown and blue patterns in a room — Design visualization — a reference for this discussion, not a completed project or a rendering of the proposed brief.

By RivyaLivingArt · 2 minute read

The question behind the worksheet

Comparing two positions on paper can reveal which questions deserve a site check. Keeping the same proposed object outline in both options makes the comparison easier to understand.

Work through the observation

Label the options A and B on one room sketch. Record nearby openings, seating and fixed fittings in each. Use the same stated scale if you have reliable dimensions; otherwise label the study approximate. Compare normal use, visibility and unresolved access questions in separate columns.

A worked example to compare

Option A may offer a clearer doorway view while option B sits closer to seating. Neither advantage settles the decision until the intended use is agreed.

Questions to put in your notes

Use these prompts to produce a short record you can revisit. Date the sheet, identify the reference you used and leave unknowns explicitly unanswered. Keep site facts, personal preferences and requests for confirmation separate.

What improves in A?
What improves in B?
Which missing fact could change the choice?

What this exercise cannot establish

A sketch cannot confirm fit or access. Do not present a paper comparison as an approved position or use it to avoid checking the room.

Choose the next question

Keep the resulting note with your current brief. Before sending it, check that it explains one decision clearly and does not turn a preference into an agreed detail. Use the current linked page for the relevant website guidance, and bring any piece-specific uncertainty to the atelier.

Read the related guidance ↗

Begin your piece Return to the journal