A Pattern Language

Intimacy Gradient:
I plan on creating a design for the visiting scholar space that has an appropriate gradation of intimacy. Since literary readings and meetings will need to take place there, I need a formal space where the visiting writer can accommodate a small audience without the being intrusive in private areas.  I plan on a smooth transition from front porch (least intimate), to entrance hall, some sort of living room, kitchen and bathrooms, office, and bedroom (most intimate) in the back of the building in order to not encroach on the writer's privacy. This will also create a sound barrier to make back rooms quieter by being a greater distance from public, louder areas.

Indoor Sunlight:
Although I cannot change the orientation of the building itself, The most important rooms will already have south facing windows according to my plan for intimacy gradient. All of my public reception spaces will be at the south end of the building and therefore have south facing windows. This will provide a more cheerful environment for hosting events and adequate natural light for rooms where the most action will be happening.

Common Areas at the Heart:
I am planning on having a reception room just beyond the entrance area, the "heart" of the building. This is where scholars will meet and host events, and where guests will spend the most time. The reception room will be a pathway to all other rooms, so it will be convenient to navigate to from any space in the building. This room will feature plenty of seating and tables, that will be conducive to meetings and discussion. I want this space to flow seamlessly into the kitchen, so as the kitchen area seems to be part of the hearth of the space or can be closed off it need be.

Short Passages:
There will be a short passage from the common reception room into the private section of the house (office, bedroom, and bathroom). This passage will include shelving for many books, which will be a necessity to any writer. By attaching to both office and common room, the scholar will be able to retrieve books for both personal study and group reference and discussion. By doubling a passageway as a pseudo-library, space will be saved and function will be increased. One side of the passageway will be lined with windows to give light and to not feel too narrow or closed in.