2015-2016 Student Design Competition – East Tennessee Gentleman’s Farm
Notes & Frequently Asked Questions

The plan provided shows finished wall dimensions, however, the cabinet layout depicted is what
the builder has suggested. Students must design their own unique, alternative solution that
better accommodates the client.

The builder’s plan provided depicts a walk in pantry (part of the original design). Dean and
Barbara would like the student designer to eliminate the pantry in their design and design
alternative storage solutions.

No exterior openings are requested, but can you add a window? If so, are there any limitations
as to where new windows can be located or their size (width and/or height)?
Yes, one new window is optional but not required, and can be added on the right wall (where the
range is currently located). Any window added must be reasonably sized as to not exceed the
budget.

The engineered beam extends down from the finished ceiling 11” (including the drywall finish).

Students may use special type cabinets, such as floating base cabinets or decorative pieces. Use
of imagination is encouraged while still considering the budget.

Is a construction plan still required for the kitchen seeing as though there can only be
minor modifications done at this time?
A construction plan would be required if you added a support wall (1/2 wall) for an island or peninsula
counter. This would also apply to walls built for a pantry cabinet or built in ovens.

It is noted that the cook surface can be designed in the island, however, seeing as
though most plumbing rough is complete, can the students still design the sink in the
island?
All mechanical elements will be changed to meet the winning student’s design. The ceiling in the
room directly below the kitchen has not been installed so access to all utilities is possible and
expected. The main panel for electricity is just below the mudroom. The students will have a clean
slate for their design of the kitchen using the space shown on the drawing with finished dimensions.

What is the budget for the kitchen project?
As stated on the client survey form under General Client Information number 9 - The total budget for
Dean and Barbara’s kitchen is published as $25,000 – $35,000. Waypoint Living Spaces has
estimated that the cost of the kitchen cabinets should fit in a range of $12,000 - $16,000 for a kitchen
that size. When estimating your project keep the following facts in mind:
 There will not be a labor charge since that cost would be included in the price of the home unlike
a remodel job.
 Dean and Barbara are furnishing the refrigerator, dishwasher, hood and garbage disposal. They
have also purchased a range but will consider a cooktop/oven for the final kitchen. If you plan a
cooktop/oven in your design you must add the cost of the two added appliances to your budget.
 The countertop, flooring, sink/s, backsplash, lighting and similar items must be included in your
budget.

The clients are “furnishing the refrigerator, dishwasher, hood, and garbage disposal.” Should
the students still specify those items in the Floor Plan Specifications?
Yes. I will use the range as an example:
FLOOR PLAN SPECIFICATION LIST: EXISTING 30” RANGE
MECHANICAL PLAN LEGEND: Correct Symbol plus EXISTING 30” RANGE, 240V,
40AMP

Do the students need to indicate costs/total budget in their competition entry? For example,
would they need to include a budget sheet showing the costs for fixtures, finishes, additional
construction, etc. (items NOT furnished by the clients)?
We are not asking for an itemized budget but the students must consider the cost of the items they
include in their kitchen design. In the past the students had no budget so many designed products
without considering the cost to the client. Since this project will be installed by Dean and Barbara and
they are working with a budget, the students need to consider the cost of the kitchen project. For
example if a student designs the kitchen using a rare $12,000 stone counter material, gold fleck tile
for the back splash, a $3,800 sink and a rare Brazilian hardwood floor, their project will not make the
cut into the finals. Dean and Barbara are committed to implementing the student’s design that is
judged the best. But the winning design must fit within their budget.

Should the cost of stools be included in the $35,000 budget?
No – Homeowners are revising existing

The clients see this home as a long term investment and plan on designing the main level to meet
their needs as they “age in place”, with that being said should we assume we are to utilize the
“Access Standard” of the guidelines?
No, they are in their 30’and 40’s now.