OBO Residential Code 2012

2012
OBO
RESIDENTIAL
CODE
JANUARY 2012
2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OBO Supplement to 2009 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE (IRC)

The 2012 OBO International Codes Supplement adopts the 2009 IRC and amends its provisions on a chapter-by-chapter
basis. Sections listed in the chapters below are amended or added by this supplement. Where a section is not listed,
provisions of the IRC section are adopted by OBO in their entirety. A number of IRC chapters are adopted in their
entirety without amendment as indicated.
PART I ADMINISTRATION
CHAPTER 1
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

R101 General
R102 Applicability
R103 Authority Having Jurisdiction
R104 Not Adopted
R105 Not Adopted
R106 Design Submittal Standards
R107 No Amendments
R108 Not Adopted
R109 Not Adopted
R110 Not Adopted
R111 Not Adopted
R112 Not Adopted
R113 Not Adopted
R114 Not Adopted
PART II DEFINITIONS
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
R201 General
R203 OBO Terms And Abbreviations
PART III BUILDING PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION

CHAPTER 3
BUILDING PLANNING
R301 Design Criteria
R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating
R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings
R311 Means of Egress
R314 Smoke Alarms
R316 Foam Plastic
R325 Carpeting
R326 Draperies and Window Treatments
R327 Furniture
R328 Wall Coverings
R329 Walls and Ceilings
R330 Mattress and Bedding
OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

United States Department of State
JANUARY 2012
IRC TOC - 1
CHAPTER 4
FOUNDATIONS
No Amendments
CHAPTER 5
FLOORS
No Amendments
CHAPTER 6
WALL CONSTRUCTION
No Amendments
CHAPTER 7
WALL COVERING
No Amendments
CHAPTER 8
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
No Amendments
CHAPTER 9
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
No Amendments
CHAPTER 10
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES

No Amendments
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART IV ENERGY CONSERVATION

CHAPTER 11
ENERGY EFFICENCY
N11011 General
PART V MECHANICAL
CHAPTER 12
MECHANICAL ADMINISTRATION
Not Adopted
CHAPTER 13
GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

M1301 General
M1305 Appliance Access
CHAPTER 14
HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT

M1416 Air Handling units
CHAPTER 15
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
M1503 Range Hoods
M1507 Mechanical Ventilation
M1508 Smoke Control Systems
CHAPTER 16
DUCT SYSTEMS
R1603 Air Filtration
CHAPTER 17
COMBUSTION AIR
No Amendments

JANUARY 2012
IRC TOC - 2
CHAPTER 18
CHIMNEYS AND VENTS

No Amendments
CHAPTER 19
SPECIAL FUEL-BURNING EQUIPMENT

No Amendments
CHAPTER 20
BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS

No Amendments
CHAPTER 21
HYDRONIC PIPING
No Amendments
CHAPTER 22
SPECIAL PIPING AND STORAGE SYSTEMS

No Amendments
CHAPTER 23
SOLAR SYSTEMS
No Amendments
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART VI FUEL GAS

CHAPTER 24
FUEL GAS
No Amendments
PART VII PLUMBING

CHAPTER 25
PLUMBING ADMINISTRATION
No Amendments
CHAPTER 26
GENERAL PLUMBING REQUIREMENTS

P2603 Structural and Piping Protection
CHAPTER 27
PLUMBING FIXTURES
P2705 Installation
P2708 Showers
P2712 Water Closets
P2719 Floor Drains
P2725 Hose Bibbs
CHAPTER 28
WATER HEATERS
P2801 General
CHAPTER 29
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION

P2901 General
P2903 Water Supply System
CHAPTER 30
SANITARY DRAINAGE
P3009 Cleanouts

JANUARY 2012
IRC TOC - 3
CHAPTER 31
VENTS
No Amendments
CHAPTER 32
TRAPS
No Amendments
CHAPTER 33
STORM DRAINAGE
No Amendments
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART VIII ELECTRICAL

CHAPTER 34
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
E3401 General
CHAPTER 35
ELECTRICAL DEFINATIONS
No Amendments
CHAPTER 36
SERVICES
No Amendments
CHAPTER 37
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS

E3701 General
CHAPTER 38
WIRING METHODS
No Amendments
CHAPTER 39
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION

E3901 Receptacle Outlets
E3902 Ground-Fault And Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter Protection
E3903 Lighting Outlets
CHAPTER 40
DEVICES AND LUMINARIES

No Amendments
CHAPTER 41
APPLIANCE INSTALLATION
No Amendments
CHAPTER 42
SWIMMING POOLS
No Amendments
CHAPTER 43
CLASS 2 REMOTE-CONTROL, SIGNALING AND POWER-LIMITED CIRCUITS

No Amendments
CHAPTER 44
REFERENCE STANDARDS
Additional Standards Referenced by OBO
APPENDIX A
No Amendments
APPENDIX B
No Amendments

JANUARY 2012
IRC TOC - 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
APPENDIX C
No Amendments
APPENDIX D
No Amendments
APPENDIX E
No Amendments
APPENDIX F
No Amendments
APPENDIX G
No Amendments
APPENDIX H
No Amendments
APPENDIX I
No Amendments
APPENDIX J
Not Adopted
APPENDIX K
SOUND TRANSMISSION
K101 General
APPENDIX L
Not Adopted
APPENDIX M
Not Adopted
APPENDIX N
No Amendments
APPENDIX O
GRAY WATER RECYCLING SYSTEMS

O101 General
APPENDIX P
SIZING OF WATER PIPING SYSTEM

No Amendments
APPENDIX Q
No Amendments
PART IX COMMENTARY TO OBO-IRC ICS

CHAPTER 3
BUILDING PLANNING - COMMENTARY
CHAPTER 15
EXHAUST SYSTEMS - COMMENTARY

END OF IRC TABLE OF CONTENTS

JANUARY 2012
IRC TOC - 5
ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1
CHAPTER 1
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

SECTION R101
GENERAL
Replace Section R101.1 with the following:
R101.1 Title These regulations shall be known as the 2012 OBO Residential Code hereinafter referred to as "this
code."
1. This code incorporates by adoption the 2009 International Residential Code of the International Code Council
as amended by the 2012 OBO International Codes Supplements (OBO-ICS).
Replace Section R101.2 with the following:

R101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement,
replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family
dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories above-grade in height with a
separate means of egress and their accessory structures.
Exception:
The following residential structures shall be designed according to the OBO-ICS IBC:
1. Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three
stories above-grade in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures as noted in the
OBO-ICS IBC, Chapter 4, Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy, Section 427, Staff
Housing, or Section 428, Representational Housing..
2. Housing structures which are not detached one- or two-family dwellings or townhouses such as the MSGQ or
staff housing structures (SDA).
3. Structures designed to resist blast effects including, but not limited to, structures designated by OBO to have
equivalent blast protection to that provided for on-compound office buildings. Refer to the Statement of Work
(SOW) for additional information and the classified requirements for further blast requirements. Refer to Section
1624 Blast Analysis and Design of the 2007 OBO-ICS IBC.
R101.2.1 Physical Security. Physical security design for residential structures shall be in accordance with
separately provided project-specific requirements. Verify with OBO before beginning design. Refer to Section
422.5 of the OBO-ICS IBC for physical security requirements and Chapter 5 of the OBO-ICS IZC for site and
perimeter security requirements.
Add the following subsections:
R101.4 Effective Dates of Codes and Supplements. Refer to OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 1 for effective dates of codes
and supplements.
R101.5 Host Country Codes and Standards. Refer to OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 1.
JANUARY 2012
IRC 1 - 1
ADMINISTRATION
Chapter 1
R101.6 Marginal Markings Indicating Updates. Refer to OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 1.
SECTION R102
APPLICABILITY
Add the following sentence to Subsection R102.5:
R102.5 Appendixes. The OBO-IRCS Table of Contents for each code indicates which ICC I-Code Appendixes are
adopted by OBO.
Replace Section R102.7 in its entirety with the following:
OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 1 Section 102.6
See additional requirements in OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 34
Replace section R103 in its entirety with the following:
OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 1 Section 103
Sections R104 through R105 are not adopted.
Replace section R106 in its entirety with the following:
OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 1 Section 106
Sections R108 through R114 are not adopted.
END OF CHAPTER IRC-1 AMENDMENTS

JANUARY 2012
IRC 1 - 2
DEFINITIONS
Chapter 2
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
SECTION R201
GENERAL
Delete this section in its entirety and replace with the following:
R201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of the
code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
R201.2 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the
International Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, International Fuel Gas Code or International Fire Code,
Such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
R201.3 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this chapter, such
terms shall have ordinary accepted meanings such as the context implies.
Add new Section R203:
SECTION R203
OBO TERMS AND ABBREVATIONS
R203.1 Refer to the definitions in OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 2 OBO Terms and Abbreviations
END OF CHAPTER 2 AMENDMENTS

JANUARY 2012
IRC 2 - 1
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CHAPTER 3
BUILDING PLANNING
SECTION R301
DESIGN CRITERIA
Replace Subsection R301.1.1 with the following:
R301.1.1 Alternate Provisions. As an alternative to the requirements in Section R301.1 the following standards are
permitted subject to the limitations of this code and the limitations therein. Where engineered design is used in
conjunction with these standards, the design shall comply with the Building Code of Overseas Buildings Operations. All
structures designed to withstand blast, progressive collapse or as designated in Section R101.2 shall be engineered
and designed according to the Building Code of Overseas Buildings Operations including all references therein.
1. American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA) Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM)
2. American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing Prescriptive Method for
One- and Two-Family Dwellings (COFS/PM) with Supplement to Standard for Cold-Formed Steel FramingPrescriptive Method for One- and Two-Family Dwellings.
Add the following Subsection:
R301.1.2.1 Prohibited Construction Systems. The following construction systems are prohibited:
1. Precast, Prestressed Systems or Precast-Prestressed Components in combination with cast-in-place systems
shall not be used unless specifically allowed by OBO
2. Lightweight concrete shall not be used in structural members resisting forces generated by earthquake motions
or blast.
Replace the first paragraph of Section R301.2 with the following:
R301.2 Climatic and geographic design criteria. Buildings shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of
this code as limited by the provisions of this section. Wind, Seismic and Snow provisions shall be in accordance with
Sections R301.2.1, R301.2.2, and R301.2.3 unless specifically modified by OBO site-specific requirements.
Replace the second sentence in Subsection R301.2.1 with the following:
Basic wind speeds shall be determined from Building Code of Overseas Buildings Operations Table 1609 when such
data is not specifically given in the SOW. The minimum basic wind speed (3 second gust) shall be 40 m/s.
Replace the first sentence in Subsection R301.2.1.1 with the following:
Construction in regions where the basic wind speeds from Building Code of Overseas Buildings Operations Table 1609
equal or exceed 45 m/s in hurricane-prone regions, or 49 m/s elsewhere, shall be designed in accordance with one of
the following:
Replace Subsection R301.2.2.1 with the following:
R301.2.2.1 Determination of seismic design category. Residential structures designed in accordance with this code
shall be assigned a Seismic Design Category in accordance with R301.2.2.1.1 Alternate determination of seismic
design category.
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 1
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Replace Subsection R301.2.2.1.1 with the following:

R301.2.2.1.1 Alternate determination of seismic design category. Maximum considered earthquake spectral
response acceleration at short periods, S s , and at 1-second period, S 1 , shall be in accordance with OBO-ICS IBC Table
16.15-1 unless noted otherwise. Using site-specific site class information provided in the SOW, the Short Period Design
Spectral Response Acceleration, S DS , shall be determined in accordance with Section 1613 of the OBO-ICS IBC. The
value of S DS determined in accordance with Section 1613 of the 2006 International Building Code is permitted to be
used to set the seismic design category according to Table R301.2.2.1.1, and to interpolate between values in Tables
R602.10.1, R603.7, and other seismic design requirements of this code.
Replace Section R301.2.3 with the following:
R301.2.3 Snow Loads. Ground snow loads shall be determined from OBO-ICS IBC Table 1609 when such data is not
specifically given in the SOW. Wood framed construction, cold-formed steel framed construction and masonry and
concrete construction in regions with ground snow loads 3.35 kPa or less, shall be in accordance with Chapters 5, 6,
and 8. Buildings in regions with ground snow loads greater than 3.35 kPa shall be designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practice and in accordance with the OBO-ICS IBC.
Add New Section R301.9:
R301.9 Residential Housing. For design guidance, refer to the commentary for Design Criteria for
Representational Housing and Staff Officer housing (SDA).
SECTION R302
FIRE-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
Add Exception 2 to Subsection R302.9.1 as follows:
2. The requirements for maximum flame spread shall be based on International Building Code Table 803.5.
SECTION R303
LIGHT, VENTILATION, AND HEATING
Add the following to Subsection R303.1:
Exception 4. When natural ventilation can not be provided due to the requirements of blast resistant construction,
ventilation requirements are to meet OBO-ICS IMC, Chapter 4, Ventilation.
Replace Subsection R303.8 with the following:
R303.8 Indoor Air. Refer to OBO-ICS IMC, Section 309.1, Indoor Air, for indoor air design conditions. All storage areas
in residences including Family Storage, Linen Storage, Pantries, Food Storage, and Wine Storage should be fully
ventilated and conditioned to prevent mildew. Each storage space is to be provided with supply air from the main
conditioning system.
Add Subsection R303.9 with the following:
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
R303.9 Indoor Air. Refer to OBO-ICS IMC, Section 309.1, Indoor Air, for indoor air design conditions.
Add Subsection R303.10:
R303.10 Comfort and Performance Control. Provide separate thermostat controls for private residence areas and for
representative function areas. Each bedroom is to have independent temperature controls.
SECTION R310
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENINGS
Add Exception 2 to Subsection R310.1 as follows:
2. Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple-single family dwellings less than three stories in height and
that are located on an embassy compound, are not required to have emergency escape and rescue openings.
Add Exception to Subsection R310.4:
Exception: The requirement for grilles on all residential housing governed by the International Residential Code will be
identified on a project-specific basis. Where grilles cover windows of occupied bedrooms below the fourth floor, the
bedrooms shall have a second means of egress in accordance with Subsection R311.4.1.
Add the following to Subsection R310.4:
R310.4.1 Existing structures. Where grilles are recommended or required on a site specific basis, grilles deemed
adequate by the RSO for local conditions may be considered for accessible window openings.
SECTION R311
MEANS OF EGRESS
Delete Subsection R311.2 in its entirety and replace with the following:
R311.2 Door type and size.
R311.2.1 Door type. Exterior doors for off-compound housing shall be of substantial construction. Outward swinging
doors shall have the external door hinges made non-removable. Exterior doors for on-compound housing shall be
hollow metal or solid core wood doors.
Exception: Steel plate or heavy-gauge hollow metal doors as required on a project specific basis.
R311.2.2 Door size. The required exit door shall be a side-hinged door not less than 915 mm (3 feet) in width and 2032
mm (6 feet 8 inches) in height. Other doors shall not be required to comply with these minimum dimensions.
Add the following Exception to Subsection R311.4.4:
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Exception: For exit doors serving any space other than a representational space in representational housing, a double
cylinder is permitted to be installed if the deadbolt is within 1000 mm of a door window or glass sidelight.
SECTION R314
SMOKE ALARMS
Add Subsection R314.5 with the following:
R314.5 Alarm Systems. When used in residences on embassy compounds, the smoke alarm system shall interface
with the compound alarm system.
SECTION R316
FOAM PLASTIC
Add Exception to Subsection R316.1 as follows:
Exception: Foam plastics shall not be used as an interior finish. Foam plastic thermal insulation (urethane,
polystyrene, or others having a flame spread rating not exceeding 25 and a smoke density not to exceed 450) may be
used only when completely covered by a minimum of 13 mm thick layer of gypsum wallboard or the equivalent. The
covering shall also be applied in concealed spaces.
SECTION R325
CARPETING
Add new Section R325 as follows:
R325.1 Carpeting. Carpets, carpet tile, and rugs used for floor covering shall comply with NFPA Class I-ASTM E-648
(direct glue), NFPA 253, Standard Method of Test for Critical Radiant Flux for Floor Covering Systems Using a
Radiant Heat Energy Source, Class I, 0.45 watts/cm2 or greater. If padding is used, carpet and pad must be
successfully tested as a unit.
SECTION R326
DRAPERIES AND WINDOW TREATMENTS
R326.1 Draperies and Window Treatments. Draperies and window treatments shall be generally inherently
flameproof. In limited enclosed representational areas, a flameproof finish may be applied upon approval by OBO. All
draperies and window treatments shall meet the requirements of NFPA 701, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame
Propagation of Textiles and Films.
SECTION R327
FURNITURE
R327.1 Furniture. All upholstered furniture shall bear the Upholstered Furniture Action Council (UFAC) label for
cigarette ignition.
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
R327.1.1 US furniture. Furniture purchased in the US shall meet the requirements of the California Bureau of Home
Furnishings Bulletin No. 117-75 as referenced in NFPA Standard 260.
R327.1.2 Non US furniture. When non US furniture is necessary, standards compatible with US testing procedures
shall be followed to maintain the fire protection features of the building.
R327.1.3 Existing furniture. When existing furniture is to be re-upholstered, it is required to meet the requirements of
NFPA 260, Standard Methods of Tests and Classification System for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of
Upholstered Furniture. Welt cord, filling/padding components, decking material, and barrier materials classification are
to be Class I. Class I cover fabrics shall only be used when used in conjunction with Class I barriers.
SECTION R328
WALL COVERINGS
R328.1 Wall coverings. When used as interior wall finish, textile wall coverings, including material such as those having
napped, tufted, looped, non-woven, or similar surface shall comply with one of the following:
1. Class I flame spread. Textile wall coverings shall have a Class I flame spread and shall be protected by automatic
sprinklers, or
2. Acceptance criteria. The textile wall covering shall meet the acceptance criteria of the International Building Code
Section 803.2.1 when tested using a product mounting system, including adhesive, representative of actual use.
SECTION R329
WALLS AND CEILINGS
R329.1 Walls and ceilings. The maximum flamespread ratings for ceilings and walls shall not exceed 75 (Class II)
except in exit corridors and stairs which shall not exceed 25 (Class I).
R329.2 Ceilings. Acoustical panel ceilings are not permitted within individual residential units.
SECTION R330
MATTRESS AND BEDDING
R330.1 Mattress and Bedding. Mattresses and bedding shall comply with DOC FF 4-72 Flammability Standard.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 5
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Chapter 11
CHAPTER 11
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Replace Chapter 11, Energy Efficiency with the following:
SECTION N1101
GENERAL
N1101.1 General. Refer to OBO-ICS IBC, Chapter 13, Energy Efficiency, for energy efficiency requirements.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 11 - 1
GENERAL MECHANICAL
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
Chapter 13
CHAPTER 13
GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

SECTION M1301
GENERAL
Add Subsection M1301.2, HVAC System Design.
M1301.2 HVAC System Design. Refer to OBO-ICS IMC, Section 313, HVAC System Design, for design
requirements.
Add Subsection M1301.3, Air Supply Protection.
M1301.3 Air Supply Protection. Refer to OBO-ICS IMC, Section 401.1, Air Supply Protection, for special system
requirements.
SECTION M1305
APPLIANCE ACCESS
Add Subsection M1305.2, Equipment Clearances.
M1305.2 Equipment Clearances. Criteria for equipment clearances to include those set forth in OBO-ICS IBC,
Section 1207.5, Equipment Clearances.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 13 - 1

Chapter 14
CHAPTER 14

SECTION M1416
AIR HANDLING UNITS
Add Section M1416, Air Handling Units.
M1416 Air Handling Units. Refer to OBO-ICS IMC, Section 403.4, Air Handling Units, for equipment requirements.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 14 - 1
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
Chapter 15
CHAPTER 15
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
SECTION M1503
RANGE HOODS
Delete Section M1503.1, Exception.
Delete Section M1503.2, Exception.
SECTION M1507
MECHANICAL VENTILATION
Replace Subsection 1507.1 with the following:
1507.1 General. All toilet rooms, locker and changing rooms, trash storage rooms, and bathrooms are to be
mechanically ventilated.
Add Subsection 1507.4:
1507.4 Kitchen Ventilation. Kitchen ventilation rates are to be the larger of the values indicated or Table M1507.3 or
that required by the manufacturers recommendations for the equipment to be installed in the kitchen.
SECTION M1508
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Add Section 1508:
1508 Smoke Control. Refer to OBO-ICS IMC, Section 513, Smoke Control Systems, for smoke control system
requirements.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 15 - 1
DUCT SYSTEMS
Chapter 16
CHAPTER 16
DUCT SYSTEMS
SECTION M1603
AIR FILTRATION
Add Section M1603:
M1603 Air Filtration. Refer to OBO-ICS IMC, Section 605, Air Filters, for air filtration requirements.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 16 - 1

Chapter 26
CHAPTER 26

SECTION P2603
STRUCTURAL AND PIPING PROTECTION
Add Subsection P2603.6.2, Insulation.
P2603.6.2 Insulation. Cold water pipes shall have a vapor barrier wrapped on the warm side of the insulation to
prevent condensation.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 26 - 1
PLUMBING FIXTURES
Chapter 27
CHAPTER 27
PLUMBING FIXTURES
SECTION P2705
INSTALLATION
Add Subsection P2705.1.9, General:
P2705.1.9 Plumbing Fixture mounting heights.
1.
Shower Head: 1980 mm (66) minimum, 2130 mm (70) maximum, above finished shower floor.
2.
Shower Rod: 1980 mm (66) above finished shower floor.

SECTION P2708
SHOWERS
Add Subsection P2708.5, Fixture Mounting Heights:

P2708.5, Fixture Mounting Heights. See Section 2705, Installation, for plumbing fixture mounting heights.
SECTION P2712
WATER CLOSETS
Add Subsection P2712.10, Additional Requirement:
P2712.10, Additional Requirement. Provide hand-held bidet spray unit where required by local religious practices.
Refer to Plumbing Code of Overseas Buildings Operations, Chapter 4 for requirements.
SECTION P2719
FLOOR DRAINS
Add Subsection P2719.2, Floor Drain Requirements:
P2719.2, Floor Drain Requirements. Representational residences: Provide floor drains in service panties, main
kitchens, trash collection areas, laundry rooms or closets, mechanical rooms, utility rooms, janitors closets, guest toilets
serving representational areas, and outdoor representational areas.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 27 - 1
PLUMBING FIXTURES
Chapter 27
SECTION P2725
HOSE BIBBS
Add Section P2725, Hose Bibbs:

P2725 Hose Bibbs. Hose bibbs are to be provided in all trash collections areas. Provide one hose bibb, in a
discrete location, on each building faade. Hose bibs are to be frost-proof where subject to freezing or required by
local building codes.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 27 - 2
HOT WATER HEATERS

Chapter 28
CHAPTER 28
WATER HEATERS
SECTION P2801
GENERAL
Add Subsection P2801.8, Domestic Hot Water.
M2801.8 Domestic Hot Water. Refer to OBO-ICS IPC, Section 501.1.1, Domestic Hot Water, for special system
requirements.
Add Subsection P2801.9, Water Heater Type.
P2801.9, Water Heater Type. Refer to OBO-ICS IPC, Section 501.1.2, Water Heater Type, for special system
requirements.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 28 - 1

Chapter 29
CHAPTER 29

SECTION P2901
GENERAL
Add Subsection P2901.2, Characteristics.
P2901.2 Characteristics. Refer to OBO-ICS IPC, Section 602 for potable water requirements.
SECTION P2903
WATER-SUPPLY SYSTEM
Add Subsection P2903.9.4.1, Valve Types.
P2903.9.4.1 Characteristics. Refer to OBO-ICS IPC, Section 605. for additional valving requirements.
Add Subsection P2903.11, Gauges and Instrumentation.
P2903.11 Gauges and Instrumentation. Non-mercury type pipe thermometers shall be provided on entering and
leaving of all water heaters and heat exchangers. See OBO-ICS IPC, Section 606, Gauges and Instrumentation, for
requirements for buildings on compounds.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 29 - 1
SANITARY DRAINAGE
Chapter 30
CHAPTER 30
SANITARY DRAINAGE
SECTION P3009
CLEANOUTS
Add Section P3009.1, Cleanouts.
P3009.1 Cleanouts. Refer to OBO-ICS IPC, Section 708, for cleanout requirements.
Add Section P3009.2, Where Required.

P3009.2 Where Required. Refer to OBO-ICS IPC, Section 708, for cleanout requirements.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 30 - 1
Chapter 34
CHAPTER 34
SECTION E3401
GENERAL
Add Section E3401.2.1, System Voltages.
E3401.2.1 System Voltages. This code shall also be applicable to 240/415-volt, 0- to 400- ampere, single-phase
systems in locations where required by the nominal electrical service.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 34 - 1
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND

FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
Chapter 37
CHAPTER 37
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS

SECTION E3701
GENERAL
Add Subsection E3701.6, Branch Circuit Panel Locations.
E3701.6 Branch Circuit Panel Locations. Refer to OBO-ICS NEC, Section 210 for requirements.
Add Subsection E3701.7, Circuit Breakers.
E3701.7 Circuit Breakers. Refer to OBO-ICS NEC, Section 210 for requirements.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 37 - 1

Chapter 39
CHAPTER 39

SECTION E3901
RECEPTACLE OUTLETS
Add following to Section E3901.2, Convenience Receptacle Distribution.
E3901.2, Convenience Receptacle Distribution. Provide receptacles in Garages and Garden Storage areas.
SECTION E3902
GROUND-FAULT AND ARC-FAULT CIRCUIT-INTERRUPTER PROTECTION
Add Section E3902.13, GFCI Breakers.
E3902.13, GFCI Breakers. For countries where the nominal voltage is greater than 220 volts, the use of an
enclosed GFCI breaker mounted adjacent to the panelboard feeding that circuit is acceptable. Provide International
Configurations #AI6UE (10ma trip) with A#4QEL surface mount enclosure or equal.
SECTION E3903
LIGHTING OUTLETS
Add following to Section E3903.5, Closets.
E3903.5, Closets. Provide a switched ceiling light in walk-in closets.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 39 - 1
REFERENCED STANDARDS
Chapter 44
CHAPTER 44
REFERENCED STANDARDS
To this Chapter, add OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 35 Additional Standards Referenced by OBO in its entirety.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 44 - 1
SOUND TRANSMISSION
Appendix K
APPENDIX K
SOUND TRANSMISSION
SECTION AK101
GENERAL
Add Subsection AK101.2, Noise Restrictions for Equipment.
AK101.2 Noise Restrictions for Equipment. Noise reduction criteria to include those set forth in OBO-ICS IMC,
Section 1207.
Add Subsection AK101.3, Noise Reduction.
AK101.2 Noise Reduction. The following guidelines are required to prevent noise propagation.
1. Plumbing systems shall not be located in walls adjoining bedrooms.
2. Mechanical Rooms, Servants Quarters, Laundry Rooms, and Exercise Rooms should be acoustically
isolated and are not to share a common wall with a bedroom.
END OF IRC APPENDIX K AMENDMENTS

JANUARY 2012
IRC K-1

Appendix O
APPENDIX O

SECTION AO101
GENERAL
Delete the Appendix in its entirety and replace with the following:
AO101.1 General. Refer to OBO-ICS IPC, Appendix C, for requirements.
END OF CHAPTER IRC-APPENDIX 0 AMENDMENTS

JANUARY 2012
IRC O-1

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CHAPTER 3
BUILDING PLANNING
SECTION R301.9
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING DESIGN CRITERIA
(These paragraph numbers do not correspond to IRC numbers)
Purpose. The principle purpose of the Commentary is to provide a basic volume of knowledge and facts relating to
OBO residential construction. This Commentary is to be used in conjunction with the Building Code of the Overseas
Buildings Operations and not as a substitute for the code. The Commentary is advisory only; the code official alone
possesses the authority and responsibility for interpreting the code.
AMBASSADORS RESIDENCE (CMR)
1.0
General
1.1
Background. The Ambassador is the personal representative of the President of the United States to the
host country. He or she explains and interprets U.S. policy and promotes the U.S. position with the local
government. As the chief of the U.S. Mission in the country, the Ambassador coordinates the total U.S.
presence there.
1.
Image. As with all official American facilities in foreign countries, the Ambassador's residence
(CMR) is symbolic of the U.S. presence. The desire for American standards of high quality and
comfort should be tempered with respect for local customs and traditions, and sensitive to the
image projected to the local populace. The CMR should express its representational nature in
terms of quality rather than luxury, respect rather than dominance, and openness rather than
isolation.
2.
Function. The CMR serves as the private residence of the U.S. Ambassador and family as well as
the official point of reception and entertainment for local officials and dignitaries. Both functions
should be comfortably provided for and clearly separated in the design of the facility.
1.2
Recreational Facilities suitable to the local climate and site shall be provided on the grounds of the CMR.
Amenities such as a swimming pool and tennis court are especially desirable where opportunities for
recreation and entertainment are limited or nonexistent for Americans in the host country.
1.3
Guest Parking shall be provided on the grounds. Provide a separate parking area for employee and
service vehicles. Parking for Embassy staff using the recreational facilities may be provided in either of the
two areas or in a separate location, at the designer's discretion. Direct access to the recreational facilities
from the staff parking area is desirable.
1.4
Grounds of the residence shall be attractively landscaped utilizing indigenous and easily maintained plants
and supporting elements. Terraces and gardens may be incorporated to extend formal entertainment
functions outdoors where the climate permits.
1.5
Sleeping Areas. The family living quarters shall be designed so that the sleeping area can be closed off and
locked at night and so that all bedrooms have unimpeded access to the safe haven.
2.0
Site
OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement Commentary

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 1

COMMENTARY
2.1
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Site Access. Security measures associated with the CMR require all pedestrian and vehicular traffic to pass
through a single control station. The accompanying diagram illustrates the different circulation routes from
that point to the residence for guests, family members, employees and service vehicles.
2.1.1
Entrances. Separate entrances into the residence are required for each of its major functions.
1.
PUBLIC ENTRANCE. The public entrance shall be an impressive, formal progression

from the grounds into the representational spaces and include a covered access for
vehicular drop-off (perhaps in the form of a porte-cochere).
2.
PRIVATE FAMILY ENTRANCE. Provide private family access from the garage area to the
family living area.
3.
SERVICE ENTRANCE. Deliveries to the kitchen or other service areas as well as disposal
of garbage and trash shall be accommodated at a separate service entrance. The service
entrance serves as the employees' access point to the CMR.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 2

COMMENTARY
2.1.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CMR Site Access Diagram

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 3

COMMENTARY
2.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Site Requirements and Amenities

2.2.1
General. The development of the site is an important element in the design of a CMR. Site
amenities can enhance security and provide facilities for recreation, outdoor entertainment, and
on-site circulation. Where the climate permits, open terraces, a swimming pool with cabaa, a
tennis court and gardens shall be provided. In colder climates, a greenhouse is necessary. All
residences require a security gatehouse. Members of the American Embassy staff and their
families are frequently invited to use the recreational facilities at the residence when they are not in
use by the Ambassador. For this reason, a fenced separation is normally provided around the
tennis court, pool and cabaa to provide privacy for the family. Parking for pool and tennis court
guests may be separate or included in provisions for employee, service and guest parking. In
either case, the parking should not be visually obtrusive to the tennis and pool areas. In most
overseas posts, a remote generator must be located on the site, convenient to the service area of
the residence but hidden from view. Security aspects of site requirements and amenities vary
between posts, and are determined by specific situations such as whether or not the residence is
to be located on the Embassy compound.
2.2.2
Security Gatehouse. Refer to OBO-ICS IZC Chapter 5 for requirements.
2.2.3
Landscaping and Perimeter Barriers Landscaping of the site of an Ambassador's Residence is a

key element in the design. The use of trees, shrubs, flowers and lawns should be planned to
enhance the structure and the site, and to contribute to their overall appearance and good taste.
Care should be taken to use plants that are easily maintained and will grow in the local climate and
environment. A key role of the landscaping is to provide "line of sight" security by preventing direct
views into areas of the building and site normally occupied by the Ambassador, his family and
guests. The security requirements for perimeter barriers vary in accordance with separately
provided project-specific requirements, and should be verified with OBO before beginning design.
2.2.4
Verandas and Outdoor Terraces. The representational areas of an Ambassador's Residence can
be greatly enhanced and enlarged by the use of verandas and outdoor terraces. Where practical,
verandas or terraces should be adjacent to the Salon and State Dining Room. Accessibility of
outdoor representational areas to the physically handicapped shall be provided in accordance with
Chapter 11 of the OBO-ICS IBC. Careful attention should be given to "line of sight" security. The
size of these outdoor spaces will depend in part on climatic conditions. In moderate climates, the
following minimum sizes are recommended:
1.
Category I - 70 SM
2.
Category II - 56 SM
3.
Category III - 46 SM
2.2.5
Swimming Pool. Where climatic conditions permit swimming during three or more months of the
year, a swimming pool should be provided. See Section OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 31.
2.2.6
Cabaa. At residences with swimming pools, provide a cabaa to serve both the swimming pool
and the tennis court. At Category I posts, include a small "wet" bar. The cabaa should be
accessible to the family entrance of the residence and to the appropriate guest parking area. The
cabaa shall be sized at 65 NSM for Category I Posts and 46 NSM for Category II and III Posts.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 4

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
DRESSING AREAS. Provide separate dressing and bath areas for each sex. Bath
facilities shall contain a lavatory, water closet, and two showers.
2.
LOCKERS. Provide eight full height lockers in each dressing area of Category I cabaas
and six at Category II and III cabaas.
3.
STORAGE. Include a small room for storing pool and tennis court equipment.
4.
WET BAR. (Category I Posts only) Include a refrigerator, ice maker, bar sink, and lockable
liquor cabinet.
2.2.7
Tennis Court. Where climatic conditions permit, the residence site amenities shall include a
standard doubles tennis court.
2.2.8
Garden/Greenhouse. Flowers and vegetables will be grown on the site. In temperate climates, a
garden will be used and in colder climates, provide a greenhouse.
1.
SIZE Greenhouses shall measure 4500 by 9000 mm at Category I post residences and
4500 mm by 6000 mm at Category II and III posts.
2.
AREA The area for gardens shall be 50 percent larger than the area for greenhouses.
3.
HOSE BIBS Provide in the greenhouse and in the garden. Garden hose bibs shall be
freeze-proof where freezing weather occurs.
4.
LOCATION. Readily accessible to the service entrance of the residence.
3.0
Functional Zones
3.1
Space Interrelationships. The accompanying diagram in Subsection 3.3 depicts the interrelationships of
spaces within the CMR as well as the grouping of spaces into representational, family, guest and service
zones. Subsequent diagrams focus on the individual groupings within the complex at a larger scale. The
spaces are shown as approximate graphic scale representations of the program areas, but are not to be
construed as desirable configurations for the finished spaces. The final space configurations are to be
determined by the design architect.
3.2
CMR Functional Zones

Areas shown are maximum net for each zone. Refer also to site specific space program.
CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
Representational Spaces
340
187
158
Family Spaces
245
215
213
Guest Spaces
65
26
26

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 5

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Service Spaces
184
130
116
Staff' Quarters Spaces
110
83
67
Attached or Outside Structures
102
92
92
TOTAL NET AREAS
1046
733
672

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 6

COMMENTARY
3.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CMR Functional Zones Diagram

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 7

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.0
4.1
Overview. In addition to its function as a private residence, the CMR is the focal point of official functions of
the U.S. Embassy in a foreign country. The representational spaces include generous areas for the
reception and entertainment of local officials and dignitaries along with the necessary support spaces.
4.2
4.1.1
Layout An easy flow of guests from the Entrance Foyer through the Reception Room, Salon and
State Dining Room is imperative. At the same time, provisions shall be made to screen the State
Dining Room from other representational areas during set-up and clearing of dinner. Openings
between rooms shall be a minimum of 1830 mm wide to allow two staff to pass through
simultaneously with trays in hand.
4.1.2
Overflow Space from the Salon and State Dining Room to verandas and terraces can be especially
valuable because of the wide variations in the size of gatherings to be accommodated.
4.1.3
Size The relative size of the representational spaces at the larger posts is much greater due to the
importance of the U.S. role in those countries.
CMR Representational Spaces

CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
Entrance Foyer
19
16
14
Reception Room
46
N/A
N/A
Salon
70
56
46
State Dining Room
70
56
46
Library
26
19
19
Parlor
19
N/A
N/A
Formal Hall or Stair
23
19
14
Social Secretary's Office
09
N/A
N/A
Coat Room
12
07
05
Women's Powder Room
12
N/A
N/A
Women's Toilet
12
07
07
Men's Toilet
12
07
07
Subtotals
340
187
158

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 8

COMMENTARY
4.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CMR Representational Spaces Functional Relationship Diagram

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 9

COMMENTARY
4.4
4.4.1
4.4.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Description of Representational Spaces. See Subsection 4.2 for room sizes.

Entrance Foyer
1.
FUNCTION. Formal entrance to the CMR. Serves as an arrival area for visitors preparing
to enter the Reception Room or Salon.
2.
OCCUPANCY. Varies.
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to Covered Entrance, Reception Room, Social Secretary's

Office, Coat Room, Men's Toilet and Women's Powder Room /Toilet. Near Salon and
Parlor.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Furnishings include limited seating and

accompanying tables and accessories.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS.
A.
Appearance: The Entrance Foyer should reflect the official nature of its function.
B.
Flow: Circulation into the Reception Room should be direct and easily flowing.
C.
Floor Finish: The floor finish should be durable, easily maintained, and resistant
to water damage.
D.
Doorbell: Provide a doorbell outside the formal entrance.
E.
Exterior Entrance Door: Provide entrance lock. The exterior entrance door shall
be well lighted.
Reception Room (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION. Formal reception hall for large gatherings. May also be used to extend the
entertainment area for large groups.
2.
OCCUPANCY
A.
Category I: 50
B.
Category II: N/A
C.
Category III: N/A
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Entrance Foyer, Salon, Parlor, and Formal Hall or Stair.
Near State Dining Room and Library.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Typical furnishings include chairs and sofa(s) with

accompanying tables and accessories. Their design and appearance shall be consistent
with the representational function of the space.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 10

COMMENTARY
5.
4.4.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
A.
Doors: French doors or pocket sliding doors shall be provided between the
Reception Room and Salon to permit flexible use of these spaces.
B.
Artwork: Works of art will be displayed. Coordinate with OBO/OPS/ART for

placement and lighting requirements.
C.
Buzzer System: This room shall be provided with a buzzer system to summon
staff.
D.
Music System: Provide wall-mounted output jacks (with on/off and volume
controls) for a stereo system, connected by concealed wiring to source
components in the Family Room.
E.
Cable TV: Provide wall-mounted output jacks and concealed wiring for cable or
satellite TV systems.
Salon
1.
FUNCTION. The principal entertainment space for representational functions.
2.
OCCUPANCY
A.
Category I: 75
B.
Category II: 60
C.
Category III: 50
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Reception Room, State Dining Room and Library. Near
Entrance Foyer, Social Secretary's Office, Parlor, Service Pantry and Formal Hall or Stair.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings shall reflect the representational

nature of the space, yet have a residential character and should, for the most part, be
easily moved. Furnishings include sofas, upholstered chairs, baby grand piano, display
cabinet, occasional tables and chairs, and accessories.
5.
A.
Doors: French doors or pocket sliding doors shall be provided between the Salon
and State Dining Room, and may be used between the Salon and Reception
Room, to permit flexible use of these spaces.
B.
Outdoor Spaces: Accessibility to verandas and outdoor terraces is desirable

where climate and security considerations permit.
C.


JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 11

COMMENTARY
4.4.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
D.
staff.
E.
F.
State Dining Room

1.
FUNCTION. The dining area for official dinners, receptions and banquets.
2.
OCCUPANCY
A.
Category I: 30
B.
Category II: 22
C.
Category III: 18
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to Salon and Service Pantry. Near Reception Room, Social
Secretary's Office, Kitchen and Table & Chair Storage.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Typically, the space contains a single large,

adjustable table designed to accommodate all guests for an official function. For
unusually large functions, it may be necessary to remove this table and use a number of
smaller, individual tables. Furnishings should be of a representational nature and include
buffet(s) and a china cabinet in addition to the table and chairs.
5.
A.
Doors: French doors or pocket sliding doors shall be provided between the State
Dining Room and Salon to permit flexible use of these spaces.
B.

C.

D.
Visibility: Two doors to the Service Pantry are required, for in and out traffic.
Food preparation activity should not be visible when these doors are open.
E.
Vestibule: At Category I posts, provide a vestibule with two sets of doors

between the Service Pantry and the State Dining Room should be provided for
noise isolation. At Category II and III posts, provide a vestibule as indicated on a
site specific basis.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 12

COMMENTARY
4.4.5
4.4.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
F.
staff.
G.
Library
1.
FUNCTION. A quiet, semi-private room for use by the Ambassador for private meetings
with important officials, as well as for reading and study.
2.
OCCUPANCY. Up to eight persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to Salon. Near Reception Room and Formal Hall or Stair.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Furnishings may include a desk, desk chair,

credenza, comfortable chairs, sofas, occasional tables and accessories. Ample built-in or
freestanding bookcases or book shelving should be provided.
5.
A.
Privacy: The room should be sufficiently sound insulated to insure the privacy of
normal conversations and to block out noise from outside activities.
B.
Buzzer System: Library shall be provided with a buzzer system to summon staff.
C.
Telephone Intercom System: Provide connection to the telephone intercom

system and to the Embassy telephone.
D.
E.
F.
Internet Communication: Provide wall-mounted output jacks and concealed

wiring for internet connection.
Parlor (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION. A small formal sitting room where guests can be entertained.
2.
OCCUPANCY. Up to six persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to Reception Room. Near Entrance Foyer, Social Secretary's

Office, Salon and Formal Hall of Stair.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 13

COMMENTARY
4.4.7
4.4.8
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Furnishings may include a sofa(s), upholstered

chairs, occasional tables and accompanying accessories.
5.
A.

B.
staff.
C.
D.
Formal Hall or Stair

1.
FUNCTION. The circulation link between the representational, guest and family areas.
2.
OCCUPANCY. Varies
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to Reception Room, VIP Sitting Room and Guest Bedrooms.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Furnishings may include occasional chairs,

tables and accompanying accessories.
5.
A.
Use of Multiple Levels: Whether this space is a hall or stair will depend on the
use of multiple levels to separate representational and family spaces. Although it
is an accepted practice to locate the representational spaces on the main floor
level with the family spaces above, this arrangement is not a requirement. It may
be possible to design the entire residence on one level.
B.
Elevator: If the residence is designed with more than one story, an elevator shall
be provided and should be adjacent to this space.
Social Secretary's Office (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION. An office for the Ambassador's social secretary at large posts.
2.
OCCUPANCY. One person.
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to Entrance Foyer.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Furnishings include a desk, desk chair, an

upholstered chair, file cabinet and at least 1800 linear mm of bookshelves.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 14

COMMENTARY
5.
4.4.9
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.

B.
Buzzer System shall signal in this room.
C.
D.
Hardware: Office lock.

Coat Room
1.
FUNCTION. Coat storage for visitors.
2.
OCCUPANCY. One or two employees may be stationed in the room for large functions to
check-in coats and wraps.
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to Entrance Foyer.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Coat and hat racks. Provide a check-in counter

or dutch door for use during large functions.
5.
A.
Provide door or counter to permit a number of people to assemble, without

undue congestion, while waiting to check-in or pick-up coats.
B.
Area of the Increase the area of the Coat Room in harsh climates to
accommodate overshoes and other heavy outer clothing.
4.4.10 Women's Powder Room (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION. Powder room. Provides a screened entry to the Women's Toilet.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to four women.
3.
RELATIONSHIP. Adjacent to the Entrance Foyer and Women's Toilets.

accessible to all entertainment spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT. Vanity counter or table(s) with mirrors, seating,

towel bars, and tissue dispenser. A small sitting area may be included.
5.

Readily
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 15

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Maintenance: The room should be easily cleaned and maintained.
B.
Ventilation: Provide mechanical ventilation.
C.
Lighting and Accessories should be planned to enhance grooming and

application of cosmetics.
4.4.11 Women's Toilet

1.
FUNCTION. Toilet facilities for female guests.
2.
OCCUPANCY None permanent.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Women's Powder Room in Category I posts and to the
Entrance Foyer in Category II and III posts.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Two lavatories and three water closets at

Category I posts. Two lavatories and two water closets at Category II and III posts.
Provide appropriate equipment and accessories.
5.
A.
B.
C.
Entry should be designed to prevent direct view into the room.
4.4.12 Men's Toilet
5.0
1.
FUNCTION Toilet facilities for male guests.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Entrance Foyer.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Two lavatories and three water closets at

Category I posts. Two lavatories and two water closets at Category II and III posts.
Provide appropriate equipment and accessories.
5.
A.
B.
C.
Entry should be designed to prevent direct view into the room.
Family Spaces

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 16

COMMENTARY
5.1
5.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Overview Family spaces include rooms normally found in a private residence: bedrooms and baths, living
and dining rooms and storage areas. The Ambassador and family are more likely to utilize the
representational areas of Category II and III posts because of their more personal scale. However, even at
those residences a private family room is necessary as a retreat for family members during official functions.
5.1.1.
Location Family spaces are normally located on the second floor of a two-story residence. When
this is not practical or appropriate, the design should provide for a clear separation of this area from
the remainder of the residence.
5.1.2.
Family Entry/Stair shown on the Functional Relationship Diagram is for graphic purposes only.
Depending on specific circumstances, this element may become a separate room (similar in
function to the Formal Hall or Stair) or merely an extension of the family circulation. In either case,
the design of the area should be appropriate to its function as a secondary entrance to the family
spaces.
5.1.3.
Coat Closet should be provided for family members and guests.
CMR Family Spaces

Family Room
Family Dining Room
Family Pantry/Kitchen
Ambassador's Study
Master Bedroom
Dressing Room
Master Bath
Family Bedrooms
Bedroom Closets
Bath #2
Baths #3 and #4
Family Storage
Linen Storage
Subtotals
CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
30
23
09
19
28
19
19
56 (3)
07 (3)
07
09 (2)
14
05
28
21
N/A
19
26
16
14
56 (3)
07 (3)
05
09 (2)
09
05
28
21
N/A
19
26
14
14
56 (3)
07 (3)
05
09 (2)
09
05
245
215
213

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 17

COMMENTARY
5.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Description of Family Spaces See Subsection 5.2 for room sizes.

5.4.1
Family Room
1.
FUNCTION A casual room for family oriented activities.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to 10 persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Family Dining Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
5.
A.
Furnishings: Sofa(s), upholstered chairs, occasional tables and chairs,

bookcases and accessories may be included.
B.
TV and Stereo Equipment: Provision shall be made for television and stereo
equipment. Stereo components will be located in this room.
A.
Outdoor Terrace: Access to an outdoor terrace is desirable.
B.
Telephone Intercom System: This room shall be connected to the telephone

intercom system.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 18

COMMENTARY
5.4.2
5.4.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
C.
Music System: Provide wall-mounted intput jacks for source components of a

stereo system, connected by concealed wiring to remote speakers in other parts
of the residence.
D.
E.

Family Dining Room (with Kitchenette at Category II and Category III Posts)
1.
FUNCTION A space for family oriented dining and entertaining.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Family Room. Readily accessible to the main kitchen.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include a dining table with up to 10

chairs, a buffet and a china cabinet. At Category II and III posts, provide a kitchenette for
preparation of small meals while the kitchen is being used for state functions. Equipment
for the kitchenette includes a small range, vent hood (450 CFM minimum), microwave
oven, refrigerator/freezer, small dishwasher, six linear feet of base cabinets, wall cabinets
and a sink with disposer. A dumbwaiter should be provided where feasible.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS This room shall be provided with a buzzer system to

summon staff.
Family Pantry/Kitchen (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION A space for the preparation of small family meals during official functions and
when staff are off duty. Also used as a service pantry for family dinners.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Family Dining Room. Readily accessible to the main
kitchen.
4.
5.
A.
Cabinets: Storage cabinets for food, snacks, and beverages.
B.
Kitchen Equipment: Include the following equipment, a range, vent hood (450
CFM minimum), microwave oven, refrigerator/freezer,base and wall cabinets,
dishwasher, and a sink with disposer. A dumb-waiter should be provided where
feasible.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS This room should be equipped with a buzzer to summon

staff.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 19

COMMENTARY
A.
5.4.4
5.4.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3

Ambassador's Study
1.
FUNCTION The Ambassador's office at the residence.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to two persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Master Bedroom.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include a desk(s), desk chair(s),

upholstered chairs, occasional chairs and at least 3600 mm of built-in or free-standing
bookshelves, five to six shelves high. A lockable file cabinet is required.
5.
A.
Privacy: The study should be sufficiently sound insulated to insure the privacy of
normal conversation and to block out noise from outside activities.
B.

C.
Outside Telephone: Provide a private outside telephone line serving this room.
D.
E.
Hardware: Privacy lock.
F.

Master Bedroom
1.
FUNCTION A private, quiet room for sleeping and personal retreat for the Ambassador
and spouse.
2.
OCCUPANCY Two persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bath and Dressing Room.

Ambassador's Study. Readily accessible to other family spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include a queen size bed, night

stands, a dresser, a chest of drawers, upholstered chairs and a table arranged in a small
sitting area, drapery and accessories.
5.

Near the
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 20

COMMENTARY
5.4.6
5.4.7
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Dimensions: The room should have a minimum dimension of 4000 mm and

should provide at least two walls on which a bed can be located.
B.
Balcony: A balcony may be provided on a site specific basis where climate and
security conditions are suitable. Coordinate detailing for drapery at the balcony
door with the OBO interior design staff.
C.

D.
Outside Telephone: Provide a private outside telephone line serving this room.
E.
F.
G.
Safe Haven: A safe haven may be required near this space.
H.

Dressing Room with Closets

1.
FUNCTION A private dressing area with closets for the Ambassador and spouse.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bedroom and Master Bath.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A built-in vanity with sink (unless two sinks are
provided at Master Bath), drawer cabinets, vanity mirror, and a separate full-length mirror
should be provided.
5.
A.
Closets: Provide separate closets, with a minimum total of 8534 mm of hanging

space.
B.
Shoe Storage: Provde built-in shoe storage shelves 300 mm wide (8 shelves
high, minimum) in or adjacent to each closet.
C.
Safe Haven: This space may be part of a safe haven.
Master Bath
1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities serving the Master Bedroom.
2.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 21

COMMENTARY
5.4.8
5.4.9
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bedroom and Dressing Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A 1830 mm (minimum) counter with one sink

(two if a sink is not provided in the Dressing Room) and base cabinets below, 1830 mm
bathtub, separate shower, water closet (compartmentalized if possible) and appropriate
accessories.
5.
A.
B.
Linen Closet: A small linen closet opening off the bath is desirable.
C.
Plumbing: The plumbing should not be located on walls separating bathroom

from bedroom.
D.
Safe Haven: This space shall be part of a safe haven.
Family Bedrooms
1.
FUNCTION Private, quiet rooms for sleeping and personal retreat for children or personal
guests of the Ambassador.
2.
OCCUPANCY Two persons per bedroom.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to bedroom closets and to Baths #2, #3, or #4. Readily
accessible to other family spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include twin beds, a night stand,

dresser, chest of drawers, desk, chair, bookcase, drapery, and accessories.
5.
A.
Dimensions: These rooms shall have a minimum dimension of 3600 mm and

provide two walls on which the beds can be located.
B.
Hardware: Privacy locks.
C.

Bedroom Closets
1.
FUNCTION Clothes closets for each of the family bedrooms.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to family bedrooms.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 22

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Hanging rod with shelf above.
5.
A.
Hanging Space: Provide 3600 mm of hanging space per closet.
B.
Type: Closets may be walk-in type or arranged along a bedroom wall.
C.
Light: Walk-in closets shall have a switched ceiling light.
5.4.10 Baths #2, #3 and #4

1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities serving the second bedroom.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Bedrooms #2, #3, and #4. Accessible to family spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A 900 mm (minimum) counter with sink and base

cabinet, water closet, tub/shower, and appropriate accessories.
5.
A.
B.
5.4.11 Family Storage

1.
FUNCTION General storage for the family area.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to family spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Shelving 450 mm deep.
5.
A.
Shelving: Walk-in storage room with a combination of full-height shelving and

hanging space with shelving above.
B.
Ventilation: Provide mechanical ventilation to prevent mildew.
C.
Hardware: Storeroom lock.
5.4.12 Linen Storage

1.
FUNCTION Storage of linens for bedrooms and bathrooms.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 23

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to bedrooms and bathrooms.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Shelving 500 mm deep.
5.
A.
Shelving: Walk-in storage room with full-height shelving.
B.
Ventilation: Provide mechanical ventilation as required to prevent mildew.
C.
6.0
Guest Spaces
6.1
Overview The Ambassador's residence shall include accommodations for visiting guests. These quarters
are sized according to the size category of the post.
6.2
6.1.1
VIP Suite Category I residences shall have a VIP suite including a bedroom, sitting room and
bathroom, as well as a second bedroom and bathroom for guests.
6.1.2
Guest Accommodations may be located on the representational floor or on a higher floor with
family spaces. However, separation from all other spaces to insure quiet and privacy is essential.
CMR Guest Spaces

CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
VIP Sitting Room
14
N/A
N/A
Guest Bedroom #1
21
19
19
Guest Bedroom #2
16
N/A
N/A
Guest BR Closet(s)
05 (2)
02
02
Guest Bath(s)
09 (2)
05
05
65
26
26
Subtotals
6.3
CMR Guest Spaces Functional Relationship Diagram

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 24

COMMENTARY
6.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Description of Guest Spaces See Subsection 6.2 for room sizes.

6.4.1.
VIP Sitting room (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION A small sitting and reading room for guests.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Guest Bedroom #1.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include a desk and desk chair (or a

breakfast table with 2 chairs), upholstered chairs, occasional tables and at least 1830 mm
of built-in or free-standing bookshelves.
5.
A.
Privacy: The room shall be sufficiently sound insulated to insure the privacy of

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 25

COMMENTARY
6.4.2.
6.4.3.
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
B.
C.

Guest Bedroom #1
1.
FUNCTION A private, quiet room for sleeping and personal retreat for guests of the
Ambassador.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to VIP Sitting Room and Guest Bath.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include twin beds, night stands,

dresser, desk/vanity with chair, casual seating, drapery and accessories.
5.
A.
Dimensions: The room shall have a minimum dimension of 3600 mm and provide
two walls on which the beds can be located.
B.
Telephone Intercom System: Connect to the telephone intercom system.
C.
D.

Guest Bedroom #2 (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION A private, quiet room for sleeping and personal retreat for guests of the
Ambassador.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Guest Bath. Near Guest Bedroom #1.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include twin beds, night stands,

dresser, desk/vanity with chair, casual seating and accessories.
5.
A.
Dimensions: The room shall have a minimum dimension of 3600 mm and provide
two walls on which the beds can be located.
B.
C.
Hardware: Privacy lock..

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 26

COMMENTARY
D.
6.4.4.
6.4.5.
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Guest Bedroom Closets

1.
FUNCTION Clothes closets for each of the guest bedrooms.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to guest bedrooms.
4.
5.
A.
Hanging Space: Provide at least 3600 mm of hanging space per closet.
B.
Type: Closets may be walk-in type or arranged along a bedroom wall.
Light: Closets shall have a switched ceiling light.
Guest Bath(s)
1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities serving the Guest Bedroom(s).
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Guest Bedroom(s).
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A 900 mm (minimum) counter with sink, base

5.
A.
B.
7.0
Service Spaces
7.1
Overview Service spaces include the Kitchen, Laundry, storage and support areas. These facilities should
be separated from but easily accessible to both family and representational areas. Service areas should
also be accessible from a separate service entrance for delivery of supplies and disposal of trash.
7.2
Communications Systems are required in the Service Space.

7.2.1
External Systems Internet Connection and Telephone connection shall be provided in the service
area at posts where feasible and also an area for the individual ordering food and supplies to
maintain the records

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 27

COMMENTARY
7.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CMR Service Spaces

CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
Service Pantry
21
19
16
Dishwashing
07
N/A
N/A
Table & Chair Storage
14
09
09
Housekeeper's Office
05
N/A
N/A
Kitchen
28
30
23
Refrigerator/Freezer Rm
07
05
05
Food Storage
14
09
09
Wine Storage
07
05
05
Laundry/Sewing Room
16
09
09
General Storage
07
05
05
Mechanical Space
58
39
35
Subtotals
184
130
116

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 28

COMMENTARY
7.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CMR Service Spaces Functional Relationship Diagram

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 29

COMMENTARY
7.5
7.5.1
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Description of Service Spaces See Subsection 7.2 for room sizes.

Service Pantry
1.
FUNCTION Preparation and staging area between the Kitchen and State Dining Room.
Includes a wet bar and storage area.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to five persons, including temporary help.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Kitchen and State Dining Room. Near Wine Storage, Salon,
and Housekeeper's Office.
4.
5.
A.
Cabinets: Base and wall cabinets for storage of linens and tableware and for a
wet bar.
B.
Sink: Stainless steel double bowl sink for crystal washing and flower arranging.
C.
Refrigerator and storage cabinet for flower arranging and storage.
D.
Wet Bar: Refrigerator, ice maker, and bar sink.
A.
Doors: Provide separate doors for passage to and from the State Dining Room.
Provide doors between the Service Pantry and Kitchen.
B.
Dishwasher: If the State Dining Room and the Kitchen are not on the same floor,
a dishwasher is required.
C.
Storage of Silver: Provide lockable cabinets for storage of silver. (At some
Category I posts, a separate silver vault may be required). Drawers and cabinets
should be lined with treated cloth to reduce tarnishing.
D.
Wet Bar: The wet bar should be separate and function independently, and have
a lockable liquor cabinet.
E.
Maintenance: Construct floor, walls and ceiling of durable materials that are
easily cleaned and maintained.
F.
Connections: Provide utility and drain connections as required by equipment.

Provide floor drains.
G.
Telephone Intercom System: This room shall be connected to the telephone

intercom system.
H.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 30

COMMENTARY
7.5.2
Dishwashing (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION A separate space for dish washing at large posts.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Kitchen and Service Pantry.
4.
5.
7.5.3
7.5.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Sink: One stainless steel double-bowl sink.
B.
Dishwasher: Two Professional under-counter dishwashers.
C.
Storage: 2400 mm (minimum) of counter, and base cabinets for storage of

cleaning supplies.
A.
Location: This space will normally be adjacent to the Kitchen and Service Pantry,
but should be accessible from the State Dining Room without having to pass
through the cooking area.
B.
Maintenance: Floor, wall and ceiling materials shall be durable and easily
cleaned.
C.


1.
FUNCTION Storage room for tables, chairs, and other movable furnishings and
accessories used in representational spaces.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the State Dining Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT None.
5.
A.
Climate Control: This room shall be heated and air conditioned to prevent
warping and mildew.
B.
Hardware: Storeroom lock...
Housekeeper's Office (Category I Posts)

1.
FUNCTION An office for the housekeeper at Category I posts.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 31

COMMENTARY
7.5.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
2.
OCCUPANCY One person.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Kitchen and Service Pantry. Readily accessible to the
Laundry/Sewing Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Desk, chair, and file cabinet.
5.
A.
Visual Control: The designer shall provide for as much visual control over the
service area as possible by centrally locating this room and providing tempered
glass interior window(s) when feasible.
B.

C.
D.
Doorbell: The doorbell shall sound in this room.
E.
Hardware: Office lock..
Kitchen
1.
FUNCTION Cooking and food preparation
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to eight persons including temporary help.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Service Pantry, Refrigerator/Freezer Room and Food

Storage. Near Housekeeper's Office and State Dining Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT vary according to the size of the post and other
conditions. Below is the minimum equipment package for each category of post:
A.
CAT. I POSTS
1)
Residential Range: One with oven and vented hood.
2)
Professional Range: One with oven and vented hood with automatic fire
suppression system.
3)
Wall Oven: One.
4)
Refrigerator/Freezers: Two.
5)
6)
Storage Cabinets, Work Tables, Cutting Board.
7)
Fire Extinguishers.
B.
CAT. II & III POSTS:

1)
2)
3)
Residential Range: Two with ovens and vented hoods.

Refrigerator/Freezer: One.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 32

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4)
5)
6)
C.
ALL POSTS:
1)
5.
7.5.6
Dishwasher: One Professional under-counter dishwasher.

Fire extinguishers.
Microwave Oven, Professional Mixer, Toasters and a Coffee Maker.
A.
Doors: At Category I posts, provide doors between the Kitchen and the Service
Pantry to isolate kitchen noise from the State Dining Room.
B.
Maintenance: Floors and wainscots shall be tile. Walls and ceilings shall be
easily cleaned.
C.
Ventilation: The Kitchen shall be well ventilated. Air conditioning may be

required.
D.

E.
Telephone Intercom System: Provide a connection to the telephone intercom

system.
F.
G.
Layout: Kitchen layout shall allow for visual control by the chef, housekeeper, or
staff in charge.
Refrigerator/Freezer Room
1.
FUNCTION A room for supplemental refrigerators and freezers.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Kitchen.
4.
A.
CAT. I POSTS:
1)
Refrigerator/Freezer: Two.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 33

COMMENTARY
B.
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CAT. II & III POSTS:
1)
C.
5.
7.5.7
7.5.8
Counters: 1500 mm of counter with base and wall cabinets.
A.
Alcove: This space may take the form of an alcove off of the Kitchen, in which
case the refrigerators and freezers should be lockable.
B.
Maintenance: Floor, wall and ceiling materials shall be durable and easily
cleaned.
C.

D.
Food Storage
1.
FUNCTION Storage of dry food and household items.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Kitchen. Readily accessible to the service entrance.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT 350 mm deep shelving, floor to ceiling, on all

available wall space.
5.
A.
Size: The size of this room is site specific based upon on the availability of
suitable food supplies on the local market, and should be decreased or increased
as warranted.
B.
Floor Space: Open floor space will be used for storage of barrels, boxes, and
sacks on pallets.
C.
Climate Control: This room shall not have windows and must be kept cool and
dry. Air conditioning is required in some climates on a site-specific basis.
D.
Extermination: Ensure that the room is as insect and rodent proof as possible.
E.
Hardware: Storeroom lockset..
Wine Storage
1.
FUNCTION Storage of wine and liquor.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 34

COMMENTARY
7.5.9
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Service Pantry.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT 450 mm deep shelving and wine racks, 1830 mm

high.
5.
A.
Climate Control: This room shall not have windows and must be kept cool and
dry. Air conditioning is required in some climates on a site-specific basis.
B.
Laundry/Sewing Room
1.
FUNCTION A room for all laundry and sewing activities, and for temporary storage of
newly laundered items.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to the Housekeeper's Office.
4.
A.
B.
C.
CAT. I POSTS:
1)
Washer: Two heavy-duty residential.
2)
Dryer: Two heavy duty residential.
CAT. II and III POSTS:

1)
Washer: One heavy-duty residential.
2)
Dryer: One heavy-duty residential.
ALL POSTS:
1)
Sink: One laundry tub/sink.
2)
Table: One work table with two chairs or stools.
3)
Mangle: One.
4)
Sewing Machine: One.
5)
Ironing Board(s).

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 35

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
6)
5.
Cabinets: Base and wall cabinets for cloth and sewing accessories,
laundry supplies and temporary storage of laundered items. Cabinets
with hanging rods for storage of large table linens which are not folded.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:
A.
Maintenance: Floor and wainscot shall be tile or other highly durable material,
and walls and ceiling should be easily cleaned and maintained.
B.

Provide floor drain.
C.
Ducts: Provide rigid ducts for connection of dryer exhausts.
D.
E.
7.5.10 General Storage

1.
FUNCTION Storage room for luggage, trunks and other bulk items.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the service entrance.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Provide heavy-duty shelving, 500 mm deep,

along the walls.
5.
A.
Climate Control: Provide heating and air conditioning as required to prevent

warping and mildew.
B.
7.5.11 Mechanical Space

1.
FUNCTION Space for mechanical equipment and electrical switchgear.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near service entrance. Readily accessible to other service spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Mechanical equipment and electrical switchgear.
5.
A.
Rooms: This space may be divided between two or more rooms if required by
the design or building regulations.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 36

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
B.
Fire Requirements: Consult applicable codes for requirements for fire-rated

construction.
C.
Connections: Provide utility and drain connections as required.
D.
Location: Locate the mechanical spaces and design of construction and

mounting details to isolate mechanical noise from the rest of the residence.
Provide sound insulation and vibration isolation as warranted.
E.
Size: The size of the mechanical space will vary according to climatic conditions
and type of mechanical system used.
F.
Hardware: Storeroom lock..
8.0
Staff's Quarters Spaces
8.1
Overview Staff's quarters include a Staff's Hall, staff's locker rooms, and staff's bedrooms and bathrooms.
These areas should be readily accessible to the other service spaces. Requirements for staff's quarters will
vary according to local customs and the availability of staff in the host country.
8.2
CMR Staff's Quarters Spaces

CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
Staff's Hall
21
19
19
Men's Locker Room
14
09
09
Women's Locker Room
14
09
09
Staff's Bedrooms
46 (4)
35 (3)
23 (2)
Staff's Baths
15(4)
11 (3)
07 (2)
Subtotals
110
83
67
8.3
CMR Staff's Quarters Functional Relationship Diagram See 7.3
8.4
Description of Staff's Quarters Spaces See Subsection 8.2 for room sizes.
8.4.1
Staff's Hall
1.
FUNCTION A multipurpose room used by staff for relaxing and eating when not on duty.
2.
OCCUPANCY Twelve persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Locker Rooms. Readily accessible to the Kitchen.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 37

COMMENTARY
8.4.2
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Dining table, chairs, buffet, sofa, occasional

tables and accessories. A small kitchen may be provided on a site specific basis for
preparation of local ethnic dishes.
5.
A.
Occupants: This room must accommodate both "live-in" staff and temporary
help.
B.
C.
Local Customs: Requirements for staff's quarters will vary according to local
customs and the availability of staff in the host country.
Men's Locker Room (with Bathroom)

1.
FUNCTION Shared locker and toilet facilities for temporary male employees.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to eight persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Staff's Bedrooms.
4.
5.
8.4.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Locker Room: 8 lockers at Category I posts, 6 lockers at Category II and III

posts.
B.
Bathroom: A base cabinet with sink, a shower and a water closet.
A.
B.
Hardware: Privacy lock on the bathroom door.
Women's Locker Room (with Bathroom)

1.
FUNCTION Shared locker and toilet facilities for temporary female employees. At posts
where females are not employed or likely to be in the future, this space should be
combined with the Men's Locker Room.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Staff's Bedrooms.
4.
A.
Locker Room: 8 lockers at Category I posts, 6 lockers at Category II and III

posts.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 38

COMMENTARY
8.4.4
8.4.5
9.0
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
B.
C.
1)
2)
Hardware: Privacy lock on the bathroom door.
Staff's Bedrooms
1.
FUNCTION Sleeping quarters for "live-in" staff.
2.
OCCUPANCY One person per bedroom.
2.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Staff's Baths. Near the Staff's Hall and Locker Rooms.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT include a twin bed, night stand, chest of drawers,

chair, mirror and lamp for each bedroom.
5.
A.
Closets: Provide 1000 mm of closet space with storage above for each bedroom.
B.
Local Customs: Requirements for staff's quarters will vary according to local
customs and the availability of staff in the host country.
C.
Staff's Baths
1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities for each Staff's Bedroom.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Staff's Bedrooms.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Counter and base cabinet with sink, tub/shower

and water closet for each bath.
5.
A.
Ventilation: This room should be ventilated.
B.
Heat: Auxiliary heat should be provided in some climates.
C.
Attached Or Outside Structures

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 39

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
9.1
Overview This category includes spaces and structures which can vary widely between posts in terms of
configuration and size. CMR's, especially those located in harsh climates, require large, drive-through
covered entrances to protect arriving guests from extreme weather conditions. Residential compounds will
be provided with detached garages, garden storage and trash storage on a site specific basis.
9.2
CMR Attached or Outside Structures

CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
Garage
46
46
46
Garden Storage
09
07
07
Trash Storage
05
02
02
Covered Entrance
42
37
37
Subtotals
102
92
92
9.3
CMR Attached or Outside Structures Functional Relationship Diagram See 7.3
9.4
Description of Attached or Outside Structures See Subsection 9.2 for room sizes.
9.4.1
9.4.2
Garage
1.
FUNCTION Parking for official and private vehicles.
2.
OCCUPANCY Two vehicles.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Family Entry/Stair and the Service Entrance.
4.
5.
A.
Hose Bib and Floor Drains should be provided.
B.
Climate Control: Provide ventilation. Heat shall be provided in harsh climates.
C.
Provide electrical service.
D.
Provide automatic garage door opener.
E.
Hardware: Locksets.
Garden Storage

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 40

COMMENTARY
9.4.3
9.4.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
FUNCTION Storage of grounds maintenance equipment and supplies.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to the service area.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Shelves, hangers and mountings as necessary.
5.
A.
Size: The size of this room may vary according to the size of the residence
property.
B.
Ventilation: Provide natural ventilation.
C.
Electrical Service: Provide electrical service for charging of electrical equipment.
D.
Hardware: Lockset.
Trash Storage
1.
FUNCTION Enclosed holding area for garbage and trash awaiting pick-up, and for can
washing.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the kitchen and accessible to the service area.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Trash containers, brush and hose racks.
5.
A.
Can Washing: Provide can washing area with hot and cold hose bibs and floor
drain at one side of the room.
B.
Doors: Self closing and proofed against insects and rodents.
C.
Ventilation: Provide natural ventilation,
D.
Maintenance: Floor, wall, and ceiling material(s) shall be durable, waterproof and
easily cleaned.
Covered Entrance
1.
FUNCTION A protected exterior space for guests.
2.
3.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 41

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.
5.
A.
Size: The required size for the covered entrance can vary greatly due to climatic
conditions and other factors. When a drive-through "Porte Cochere" is
appropriate, adequate room should be provided to permit passengers to exit from
either side of a car and to circulate around it to enter the residence.
B.
Design: The design of this structure should express continuity with the design of
the residence itself. The Covered Entrance is an important part of the
progression of spaces in an Ambassador's residence and therefore requires
careful study during the design process.
C.
Views from this space are important and should be considered during the site
planning phase of schematic design.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 42

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CHAPTER 3
BUILDING PLANNING
DEPUTY CHIEF OF MISSION, CONSUL GENERAL, EXECUTIVE-LEVEL OFFICER (DCM/CG/SOR)
1.0
General There are three types of Senior and Executive-Level Officers at U.S. Diplomatic Missions who are
provided with representational housing: Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), Consul General or Consul and
Executive-Level Officer.
1.1
Background
1.1.1
The Deputy Chief of Mission is the deputy and second in command to the Ambassador. A DCM
assumes the duties of the Ambassador and serves as the Charg d'Affaires during the
Ambassador's absence from post.
1.1.2
Consul General or Consul The titles "Consul General" and "Consul" refer to the principle officers of
a Consulate General or Consulate, offices established to provide consular services to regions
served by cities that are not the capital of the country. Whether a Post is a Consulate General or a
Consulate depends on its size. This section does not apply when a Consul General or Consul is
attached to an Embassy. In such cases the Consul General or Consul is not the senior officer at
the Post, and the consular residence has the same program requirements as a residence for an
Executive-Level Staff Officer.
1.1.3
Executive-Level Officer Functional activities of a large U.S. Embassy are organized into sections
headed by an Executive-Level Senior Officer. These may involve State Department activities such
as those performed by the Consular Section, Political Section, Economic Section and
Administrative Section, in which case the chief of the section is a Senior Foreign Service Officer.
Or, they may be offices of other U.S. Government agencies such as the United States Information
Service or the Department of Defense, in which case they are headed by senior representatives of
those organizations. In most Embassies, these senior officers have greater representational
responsibilities than lower-ranking officers, and their residences should be designed to
accommodate these needs.
1.2
Image As with all official American facilities in foreign countries, the residences of the Deputy Chief of
Mission, Consul General or Consul, and an Executive-Level Officer are symbolic of the U. S. presence. The
desire for American standards of high quality and comfort should be tempered with respect for the local
customs and traditions, and should be sensitive to the image projected to the local populace. The
residences should express their representational nature in terms of quality rather than luxury, respect rather
than dominance, and openness rather than isolation.
1.3
Function The DCR, CGR, and SOR serve as the private residence of the DCM, Consul General/Consul
and Executive-Level Officer and their families as well as an official point of reception and entertainment for
local officials and dignitaries. Both functions should be comfortably provided for and clearly separated in the
design of the facility. Accommodations for guests and adequate service areas must also be included. The
residence of an Executive-Level Officer may be a detached, single family unit semi-attached, or part of a
multi-family complex.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 43

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.4
Landscaping The grounds of the residence shall be attractively landscaped, utilizing indigenous and easily
maintained plants and supporting elements.
2.0
Functional Zones
2.1
Space Interrelationships The diagrams in Subsection 2.2 depict the interrelationships of spaces within
each residence, as well as the grouping of spaces within each zone. Subsequent diagrams focus on the
individual groupings within the complex at a larger scale. The diagrams for the CGR depict the space
requirements for the residence of a Consul General/Consul in Locality Type 3. For the residence of a
Consul, all relationships between spaces will be the same, with the exception that a Covered Entrance is not
required. The diagrams for the SOR depict the space requirements for a five bedroom residence of an
Executive-Level Officer in Locality Type 3. The spaces are shown as graphic scale representations of the
program areas, but are not to be construed as desirable configurations for the finished spaces. The final
space configurations are to be determined by the design architect.
2.2
Spaces Allowances and Functional Relationship Diagrams

2.2.1
Deputy Chief of Mission Residence (DCR)
2.2.2
DCR Functional Zones

CAT I.
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
140
110
110
Family Spaces
179
162
155
Service Spaces
105
77
72
40
40
40
TOTAL NET AREA
461
386
374
GSM
79
GSM
79
GSM
79

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 44

COMMENTARY
2.2.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
DCR FUNCTIONAL ZONE DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 45

COMMENTARY
2.2.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Consul General or Consul Residence (CGR)

1.
2.
CONSUL GENERAL Functional Zones

Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
110
110
110
Family Spaces
153
159
166
Service Spaces
63
65
70
18
18
18
TOTAL NET AREA
342
351
363
GSM
79
GSM
79
GSM
79
CONSUL Functional Zones

Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
99
99
99
Family Spaces
153
159
166
Service Spaces
53
58
63
18
18
18
TOTAL NET AREA
321
333
344
GSM
51
GSM
51
GSM
51

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 46

COMMENTARY
2.2.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CGR FUNCTIONAL ZONE DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 47

COMMENTARY
2.2.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
EXECUTIVE-LEVEL OFFICER'S RESIDENCES (SOR)

1.
SOR Residential Zones

Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
2BR
78
85
92
3BR/Den
78
85
92
4BR/Den
80
87
94
5BR
81
88
95
2BR
85
89
94
3BR/Den
129
136
140
4BR/Den
157
164
168
5BR
164
168
173
2BR
28
33
38
3BR/Den
31
38
45
4BR/Den
38
46
53
5BR
38
46
53
2BR
190
207
223
3BR/Den
237
258
276
4BR/Den
274
296
315
5BR
281
301
320
Entertainment Spaces
Family Spaces
Service Spaces
TOTAL NET AREA

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 48

COMMENTARY
2.2.7
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SOR FUNCTIONAL ZONE DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 49

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
3.0
Representational/Entertainment Spaces
3.1
Overview In addition to their prime function as private residences, the DCR, CGR, and SOR must
supplement the official functions of the U.S. Embassy in a foreign country.
The
representational/entertainment spaces include generous areas for the reception and entertainment of local
officials and dignitaries along with the necessary support spaces.
3.2
3.1.1
Layout An easy flow of guests from the Entrance Foyer through the Salon/Formal Living Room and
Formal Dining Room is imperative. At the same time, provisions should be made to screen the
Formal Dining Room from other representational areas during set-up and clearing of dinner. In the
residence of the DCM, openings between rooms should be a minimum of 1830 mm wide to allow
two staff to pass through simultaneously with trays in hand.
3.1.2
Overflow Space from the Salon/Formal Living Room and Formal Dining Room to verandas and
terraces can be especially valuable in moderate climates because of the wide variations in the size
of gatherings to be accommodated.
3.1.3
Size The relative size of the representational spaces at the larger posts is much greater due to the
importance of the U.S. role in those countries.
Space Allowances and Functional Relationship Diagrams

3.2.1
DCR REPRESENTATIONAL ZONE.

CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
Entrance Foyer
12
09
09
Salon
46
37
37
Formal Dining Room
46
35
35
Library/Study
21
19
19
Coat Room
05
05
05
Women's Toilet
05
N/A
N/A
Men's Toilet
05
N/A
N/A
Guest Toilet
N/A
05
05
Subtotals
140
110
110

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 50

COMMENTARY
3.2.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
DCR REPRESENTATIONAL SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 51

COMMENTARY
3.2.3
3.2.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CONSUL GENERAL REPRESENTATIONAL ZONE
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
Entrance Foyer
09
09
09
Coat Room
05
05
05
Guest Toilet
05
05
05
Formal Living Room
37
37
37
Formal Dining Room
35
35
35
Library/Study
19
19
19
Subtotals
110
110
110
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
Entrance Foyer
07
07
07
Coat Room
02
02
02
Guest Toilet
05
05
05
Formal Living Room
33
33
33
Formal Dining Room
33
33
33
Library/Study
19
19
19
Subtotals
99
99
99
CONSUL REPRESENTATIONAL ZONE

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 52

COMMENTARY
3.2.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CGR REPRESENTATIONAL SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 53

COMMENTARY
3.2.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SOR ENTERTAINMENT ZONE
Entrance Foyer
Formal Living Room
2BR, 3BR/Den
4BR/Den, 5BR
Formal Dining Room
Library/Study
Coat Closet
Guest Toilet
2BR, 3BR/Den, 4BR/Den
5BR
Subtotals
2BR
3BR/Den
4BR/Den
5BR
Locality
Type 1
Locality
Type 2
Locality
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
04
04
04
28
30
28
14
01
30
33
30
16
01
33
35
33
19
01
02
03
02
03
02
03
78
78
80
81
85
85
87
88
92
92
94
95

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 54

COMMENTARY
3.2.7
3.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SOR ENTERTAINMENT SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM
Description of Representational/Entertainment Spaces See Subsection 3.2 for room sizes.

3.3.1
Entrance Foyer
1.
FUNCTION Formal entrance to the residences. Serves as an arrival area for visitors
preparing to enter the Salon/Formal Living Room.
2.
OCCUPANCY Varies.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Covered Entrance, Salon/Formal Living Room, Coat Room,

Men's Toilet and Women's Toilet and near the Library/Study.
3.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT may include limited seating and accompanying

tables and accessories.
4.
A.
Appearance: The Entrance Foyer should reflect the official nature of its function.
B.
Flow: Circulation into the Salon/Formal Living Room should be direct and easily
flowing.
C.
Floor Finish: The floor finish shall be durable, easily maintained, and resistant to
water damage.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 55

COMMENTARY
3.3.2
3.3.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
D.
Doorbell: A doorbell shall be provided outside the formal entrance.
E.
Exterior Entrance Door: Provide entrance lock. The exterior entrance door shall
be well lighted.
Salon/Formal Living Room

1.
FUNCTION The main entertainment space for representational functions.
2.
OCCUPANCY
3.
DCR Up to 50 persons for Category I and up to 40 persons for Categories II and III.
4.
CGR: Up to 40 persons (Consul General) or 35 persons (Consul) for all Locality Types.
5.
SOR: Up to 35 persons for all Locality Types.
6.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Entrance Foyer, Formal Dining Room and Library/Study.
Near the Service Pantry.
7.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings reflect the representational nature of

the space, yet have a residential character and shall, , be easily moved. Furnishings
include sofas, upholstered chairs, occasional tables and chairs, and accessories. A
Consul General will be provided a baby grand piano.
8.
A.
Doors: French doors or pocket sliding doors shall be provided between the Salon
and Formal Dining Room to permit flexible use of these spaces.
B.

C.
Artwork: Works of art will be displayed. Coordinate with OBO/OPS/ARTfor

D.
This room shall be provided with a buzzer system to summon staff.
E.
F.
G.
Hardware: Provide entrance locks at all doors opening directly to balconies or

terraces. At ground level, provide decorative metal grilles.
Formal Dining Room

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 56

COMMENTARY
1.
FUNCTION The Dining area for official dinners, receptions and banquets.
2.
OCCUPANCY
3.
A.
DCR Up to 18 persons for Category I and up to 14 persons for Categories II and

III.
B.
CGR and SOR: Up to 14 persons for all Locality Types.
RELATIONSHIP
A.
B.
3.3.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
DCR: Adjacent to Salon and Service Pantry. Near the Kitchen and Table and
Chair Storage.
CGR and SOR: Adjacent to Kitchen and Formal Living Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Typically, the space contains a single large,

adjustable table designed to accommodate all guests for an official function. For
unusually large functions, it may be necessary to remove this table and use a number of
smaller, individual tables. Furnishings should be of a representational nature and will
include a buffet and a china cabinet in addition to the table and chairs.
5.
A.
Doors: French doors or pocket sliding doors shall be provided between the
Formal Dining Room and Salon to permit flexible use of these spaces.
B.
Visibility: Food preparation activity shall not be visible when the doors to the
Kitchen are open.
C.

D.
Artwork: Coordinate with OBO/OPS/ART for placement and lighting

requirements.
E.
This room shall be provided with a buzzer system to summon staff. (Except in
SOR).
F.
G.

Library/Study
1.
FUNCTION A quiet, semi-private room for private meetings with important officials, as well
as for reading and study.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 57

COMMENTARY
2.
3.3.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
OCCUPANCY
A.
DCR: Up to eight persons.
B.
CGR and SOR: Up to six persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Salon/Formal Living Room. Near the Entrance Foyer.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT include a desk, chair, credenza, comfortable

chairs, sofas, occasional tables and accessories. Ample built-in or free-standing
bookcases or book shelving should be provided.
5.
A.
Privacy: The room shall be sufficiently sound insulated to insure the privacy of
B.
This room shall be provided with a buzzer system to summon staff. (Except in
SOR).
C.

system and to the Embassy telephone. (except in SOR).
D.
E.
F.

G.

Coat Room (DCR and CGR only)

1.
FUNCTION Coat storage for visitors.
2.
OCCUPANCY One or two employees may be stationed in the room for large functions to
check-in coats and wraps.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Entrance Foyer.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Coat and hat racks. Provide a check-in counter

or dutch door for use during large functions.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 58

COMMENTARY
5.
3.3.6
3.3.7
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Door: The door or counter shall be planned to permit a number of people to

assemble, without undue congestion, while waiting to check-in or pick-up coats.
B.
Space Requirements: Increase the area of the Coat Room in harsh climates to
accommodate overshoes and other heavy outer clothing.
Coat Closet (SOR only)

1.
2.
OCCUPANCY None
3.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Hanging rod and shelf.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS Space requirements may need to be increased in harsh

climates to accommodate overshoes and other heavy outer clothing.
Women's Toilet (DCR at Category I Posts only)

1.
FUNCTION Toilet facilities for guests.
2.
3.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT (1) lavatory and (1) water closet. Provide mirror
and appropriate accessories.
5.
A.
Mantenance: The room should be easily cleaned and maintained.
B.
C.
Entry shall be designed to prevent direct view into the room.
3.3.8
Men's Toilet (DCR at Category I Posts only) See Subsection 3.7.
3.3.9
Guest Toilet (DCR at Category II and III Posts, CGR and SOR only) See Subsection 3.7.
4.0
Family Spaces
4.1
Overview In the DCR and CGR, family spaces include rooms normally found in a private residence:
bedrooms and baths, living and dining rooms and storage areas. In the SOR, family spaces include a
Family Room and Breakfast Area in addition to bedrooms and baths. The representational/entertainment
areas may be utilized for family activities but a private Family Room is necessary for the retreat of family

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 59

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
members during official functions. A Guest Bedroom and Bath are required but may be used by a family
member when the family is large. In the SOR, the Den is another flexible space that can be put to several
different uses.
4.2
4.1.1
Location The family spaces are normally located on the second floor of a two-story residence.
When this is not practical or appropriate, the design should provide for a clear separation of this
area from the remainder of the residence.
4.1.2
Entrance The family entrance will normally be adjacent to the garage area. Depending on specific
circumstances, this may be a small foyer or merely an extension of circulation space. In either
case, a coat closet should be provided for family members and guests.

4.2.1
DCR FAMILY SPACES ZONE
Family Room
Family Dining Room
Master Bedroom
Dressing Room/Closets
Master Bath
Family Bedrooms
Bedroom Closets
Family Baths
Family Storage
Linen Storage
Guest Bedroom
Guest Bedroom Closet
Guest Bath
Subtotals
4.2.2
CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
30
16
23
14
12
37 (2)
05 (2)
09 (2)
05
02
19
02
05
28
15
21
09
09
33 (2)
05 (2)
09 (2)
05
02
19
02
05
23
15
21
09
07
33 (2)
05 (2)
09 (2)
05
02
19
02
05
179
162
155
DCR FAMILY SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 60

COMMENTARY
4.2.3
4.2.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CONSUL GENERAL OR CONSUL FAMILY SPACES ZONE
Locality
Type 1
Locality
Type 2
Locality
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
Family Room
Family Dining Room
Master Bedroom
Master Bath
Family Bedrooms (2)
Bedroom Closets (2)
Family Baths (2)
Family Storage
Linen Storage
Guest Bedroom
Guest Bath
23
15
19
09
07
33
05
09
05
02
19
02
05
28
15
21
09
07
33
05
09
05
02
19
02
05
33
15
23
09
07
33
05
09
05
02
19
02
05
Subtotals
153
159
166
CGR FAMILY SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 61

COMMENTARY
4.2.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Executive-Level Officer Residence (SOR) - SOR FAMILY SPACES ZONE

ZONE
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
2BR, 3BR/Den
16
19
21
4BR/Den, 5BR
19
21
23
2BR, 3BR/Den
09
09
09
4BR/Den, 5BR
12
12
12
2BR
19
21
23
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den,5BR
21
23
26
10
10
10
Master Bath
06
06
06
2BR
16
16
16
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den
16
19
19
5BR
19
19
19
02
02
02
Guest Bath
05
05
05
3BR/Den (1)
16
16
16
4BR/Den (2)
33 (2)
33 (2)
33 (2)
5BR (3)
49 (3)
49 (3)
49 (3)
3BR/Den (1)
02
02
02
4BR/Den (2)
05 (2)
05 (2)
05 (2)
5BR (3)
07 (3)
07 (3)
07 (3)
Family Room
Breakfast Area
Master Bedroom
Guest Bedroom
Family Bedroom(s)
Family Bedroom Closet(s)

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 62

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
3BR/Den (1)
05
05
05
4BR/Den (2)
09 (2)
09 (2)
09 (2)
5BR (3)
14 (3)
14 (3)
14 (3)
16
16
16
02
02
02
01
01
01
2BR
85
89
94
3BR/Den
129
136
140
4BR/Den
157
164
168
5BR
164
168
173
Family Bathroom(s)
Den
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den
Den Closet
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den
Linen Storage
Subtotals

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 63

COMMENTARY
4.2.6
4.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SOR FAMILY SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM
Description of Family Spaces See Subsection 4.2 for room sizes.

4.3.1
Family Room
1.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Family Dining Room/Breakfast Area. Readily accessible

to other family spaces.
4.
A.
Furnishings: Sofa(s), upholstered chairs, occasional tables and chairs,

bookcases and accessories may be included.
B.
5.
Cable TV: Provide wall-mounted output jacks and concealed wiring

for cable or satellite TV systems.
A.
Outdoor Terrace: Accessibility to an outdoor terrace is desirable.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 64

COMMENTARY
4.3.2
4.3.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
B.
The Family Dining Room/Breakfast Area may be an extension of this room.
C.

system.
D.
Music System: Provide wall-mounted intput jacks for source components of a

stereo system, connected by concealed wiring to remote speakers in other parts
of the residence.
E.
F.

Family Dining Room (DCR and CGR only)

1.
FUNCTION A space for family oriented dining and entertaining.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Family Room. Readily accessible to the Kitchen.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT include a dining table with up to 8 chairs and a

buffet. A china cabinet is included in the DCR. A dumbwaiter should be provided where
feasible.
5.
A.
B.
This room may be an extension of the Family Room.
Breakfast Area (SOR only)

1.
FUNCTION A space for informal family dining.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Kitchen. Readily accessible to the Family Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A breakfast table and 8 chairs.
5.
A.
B.
This room may be an extension of the Kitchen.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 65

COMMENTARY
4.3.4
4.3.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Master Bedroom
1.
FUNCTION A private, quiet room for sleeping and personal retreat.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bath and Dressing Room. Readily accessible to
other family spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT include a queen size bed, night stands, a dresser,

a chest of drawers, upholstered chairs and a table arranged in a small sitting area,
drapery and accessories.
5.
A.

B.
A balcony may be provided on a site specific basis where climate and security
conditions are suitable. Coordinate detailing for drapery at the balcony door with
the OBO interior design staff.
C.

system and to the Embassy telephone (except in SOR).
D.
Outside Telephone: In the DCR, provide a private outside telephone in this room.
E.
F.

G.
Safe Haven: A safe haven may be required near this space.
H.

Dressing Room (with closets)

1.
FUNCTION A private dressing area with closets.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bedroom and Master Bath.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 66

COMMENTARY
4.3.6
4.3.7
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A built-in vanity with sink (unless two sinks are
provided at Master Bath), drawer cabinets, vanity mirror, and a separate full-length mirror
should be provided.
5.
A.
Closets: Two separate closets should be provided, with a minimum of 7300 mm

(DCR) or 2400 mm (CGR and SOR) of hanging space.
B.
Safe Haven: This space may be part of a safe haven.
Master Bath
1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities for the Master Bedroom.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bedroom and Dressing Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A 1650 mm (minimum) counter with one sink

(two if a sink is not provided in the Dressing Room) and base cabinets below, 1830 mm
bathtub, separate shower (if spaces permits), water closet (compartmentalized if possible)
and appropriate accessories.
5.
A.
B.
Linen Closet opening off the bath is desirable.
C.
Plumbing: Do not be locate on walls separating bathroom from bedroom.
D.
Safe Haven: This space shall be part of a safe haven.
Family Bedrooms
1.
FUNCTION Private, quiet rooms for sleeping and personal retreat for children or personal
guests.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Family Baths. Readily accessible to family spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT include twin beds, night stand, dresser, chest of

drawers, desk, chair, bookcase and accessories.
5.
A.
These rooms should have a minimum dimension of 3600 mm and provide two
walls on which the beds can be located.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 67

COMMENTARY
4.3.8
4.3.9
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
B.
C.

Bedroom Closets
1.
FUNCTION Clothes closets for each of the family bedrooms.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Family Bedrooms.
4.
5.
A.
Hanging Space: Provide at least 3600 mm (DCR) or 3000 mm (CGR and SOR)
of hanging space per closet.
B.
Type: Closets may be walk-in type or along a bedroom wall. Walk-in closets
should have a switched ceiling light.
Family Baths
1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities serving the Family Bedrooms.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Family Bedrooms. One bath should be readily accessible to

the Family Room.
4.

5.
A.
B.
Hardware: Bathroom privacy lock.
4.3.10 Family Storage (DCR and CGR only)

1.
FUNCTION General storage for the family area.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to family spaces.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 68

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Shelves and hanging rods.
5.
A.
Shelving: Provide a walk-in storage room with a combination of full-height

shelving and hanging space with shelving above. Shelving shall be 450 mm
deep.
B.
Ventilation: Provide ventilation as required to prevent mildew.
C.
4.3.11 Den (SOR only)

1.
FUNCTION An additional space for casual, family oriented activities. Can also be used
as a guest bedroom, family bedroom, office, storage room or as a multi-purpose space.
2.
OCCUPANCY Varies.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Living Room and Kitchen.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings will depend on the intended function

of the room.
5.
A.
Dimension: This room should have a minimum dimension of 3600 mm and

should be designed to be suitable for a variety of uses.
B.
Closet: Provide closet with at least 3000 mm of hanging space. Closet may be
walk-in type or along a bedroom wall.
C.
D.
E.


1.
2.
3.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Shelving should be 500 mm deep.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 69

COMMENTARY
5.
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Shelving: Walk-in storage room with full-height shelving.
B.
C.
4.3.13 Guest Bedroom

1.
FUNCTION A private, quiet room for sleeping and personal retreat for guests. Can be
used as an additional family bedroom when the family is large.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Guest Bath.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT include twin beds, night stands, dresser,

desk/vanity with chair, casual seating, drapery and accessories.
5.
A.

B.
Telephone Intercom System: Connect to the telephone intercom system (except

in SOR).
C.
D.

4.3.14 Guest Bedroom Closet

1.
FUNCTION Clothes closet for the Guest Bedroom.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Guest Bedroom.
4.
5.
A.
Hanging Space: Provide at least 2400 mm of hanging space.
B.
Type: Closet may be walk-in type or along a bedroom wall.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 70

COMMENTARY
C.
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Light: Switched ceiling light.
4.3.15 Guest Bath

1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities serving the Guest Bedroom.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Guest Bedroom.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A 900 mm (minimum) counter with sink, base

5.
A.
B.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 71

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
5.0
Service Spaces
5.1
Overview Service spaces include the Kitchen, Laundry, storage and support areas. These facilities shall
be separated from but easily accessible to both family and representational areas. Service areas shall also
be accessible from a separate service entrance for delivery of supplies and disposal of trash.
5.2

5.2.1
Deputy Chief of Mission Residence (DCR) - SERVICE SPACES ZONE
CAT. I
CAT. II
NSM
NSM
NSM
Service Pantry
Kitchen
Refrigerator/Freezer
Food & Wine Storage
Laundry Room
General Storage
Mechanical Space
14
09
23
05
07
09
09
28
09
07
19
N/A
05
07
05
26
09
05
19
N/A
05
07
05
23
Subtotals
105
77
72

CAT. III
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 72

COMMENTARY
5.2.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
DCR SERVICE SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 73

COMMENTARY
5.2.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Consul General or Consul Residence (CGR) SERVICE SPACES ZONE

Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
Kitchen
16
16
16
Food Storage
05
07
09
Laundry Room
05
05
05
General Storage
07
09
12
Mechanical Space
21
21
21
Subtotals
53
58
63
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
Kitchen
19
19
19
Food Storage
05
07
09
Laundry Room
07
07
07
General Storage
09
09
12
Mechanical Space
23
23
23
Subtotals
63
65
70

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 74

COMMENTARY
5.2.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CGR SERVICE SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 75

COMMENTARY
5.2.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Executive-Level Officer Residence (SOR) SERVICE SPACES ZONE
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
2BR
09
12
14
3BR/Den
12
14
16
4BR/Den, 5BR
15
16
19
2BR
02
04
05
3BR/Den
02
05
07
4BR/Den, 5BR
02
07
09
2BR, 3BR/Den
03
03
03
4BR/Den, 5BR
04
04
04
2BR
05
06
07
3BR/Den
06
07
09
4BR/Den, 5BR
07
09
12
Mechanical Space
07
07
07
2BR
26
31
36
3BR/Den
29
36
43
4BR/Den
36
44
51
5BR
36
44
51
Kitchen
Food Storage
Laundry Room
General Storage
Subtotals

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 76

COMMENTARY
5.2.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SOR SERVICE SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 77

COMMENTARY
5.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Descriptions of Service Spaces See Subsection 5.2 for room sizes.

5.3.1
Service Pantry (DCR only)

1.
FUNCTION Preparation and staging area between the Kitchen and Formal Dining Room.
Includes storage for linens and tableware.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to three persons including temporary help.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Kitchen and Formal Dining Room. Near Food & Wine
Storage and the Salon.
4.
5.
5.3.2
A.
Cabinets: Base and wall cabinets for storage of linens, tableware and liquor
bottles.
B.
Sink: Stainless steel double bowl sink for crystal washing, flower arranging and
preparation of cocktails.
C.
Ice Maker: Small.
A.
Door: Provide door between the Service Pantry and Kitchen to isolate noise from
the Kitchen.
B.
Storage of Silver: Provide lockable cabinets for storage of silver. Drawers and
cabinets shall be lined with treated cloth to reduce tarnishing.
C.
Maintenance: Floor, walls and ceiling shall be constructed of durable materials

that are easily cleaned and maintained.
D.

E.
F.
Buzzer System: The buzzer system for summoning staff shall signal in this room.
Table & Chair Storage (DCR only)

1.
FUNCTION Storage room for tables, chairs, and other movable furnishings and
accessories used in representational spaces.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Formal Dining Room.
4.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 78

COMMENTARY
5.
5.3.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Climate Control: Provide heating and air conditioning to prevent warping and
mildew.
B.
Kitchen
1.
FUNCTION Cooking and food preparation.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to five persons including temporary help.
3.
RELATIONSHIP
A.
DCR: Adjacent to Service Pantry, Refrigerator/ Freezer Room and Food Storage.
Near Formal Dining Room.
B.
CGR: Adjacent to Food Storage. Near Formal Dining Room and Trash Storage.
C.
SOR: Adjacent to Formal Dining Room and Food Storage. Near Formal Living
Room, Service Entrance and Breakfast Area.
D.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT will vary according to the size of the post

and other conditions. Below is the minimum equipment package for each post:
E.
1)
Residential Range: Two with ovens and vent hoods.
2)
Wall Oven: One.
3)
4)
5)
Dishwasher: One Professional under-counter dishwasher.
6)
7)
Fire Extinguisher(s).
8)
Microwave Oven, Professional Mixer, Toaster, and Coffee Maker.
1)
Doors: At Category I posts, provide doors between the Kitchen and the
Service Pantry to isolate kitchen noise from the State Dining Room
(DCR only).

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 79

COMMENTARY
5.3.4
2)
Maintenance: Provide tile floors and wainscots. Walls and ceilings

should be easily cleaned.
3)
Ventilation: Provide ventilation. Air conditioning is required on a site

specific basis.
4)
Connections: Provide utility and drain connections as required by

equipment. Provide floor drains.
5)
Telephone Intercom System: Connect to the telephone intercom system

and to the Embassy telephone network.
6)
Buzzer System: The buzzer system for summoning staff shall signal in
this room (except SOR).
7)
Layout: Kitchen layout shall allow for visual control by the chef or staff in
charge.
Refrigerator/Freezer Room (DCR at Category I Posts only)

1.
FUNCTION A room for supplemental refrigerators and freezers.
2.
3.
4.
5.
5.3.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Refrigerator: At least one.
B.
Freezer: At least one.
C.
Counters: Provide 1500 mm of counter with base cabinets.
A.
Alcove: This space may take the form of an alcove off of the Kitchen, in which
case the refrigerators and freezers shall be lockable.
B.
Maintenance: Floor, wall and ceiling materials should be durable and easily
cleaned.
C.

D.
Hardware: Either the room or the equipment inside shall be lockable.
Food & Wine Storage

1.
FUNCTION Storage of dry food, wine and household items.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 80

COMMENTARY
5.3.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Kitchen. Near the Service Pantry. Readily accessible to the
service entrance.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT 350 mm deep shelving, 2800 mm high, and a

wine rack.
5.
A.
Size: The size of this room is site specific based upon the availability of suitable
food supplies on the local market, and should be decreased or increased as
warranted.
B.
5.3.1.5.1 Floor Space: Open floor space will be used for storage of barrels,
boxes, and sacks on pallets.
C.
Climate Control: This room shall not have windows and should be kept cool and
dry. Air conditioning will be required in some climates.
D.
Extermination: Precautions should be taken to insure that the room is as insect

and rodent proof as possible.
E.
Laundry Room
1.
FUNCTION A room for all laundry activities, and for temporary storage of newly
laundered items.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to the family spaces and service areas.
4.
5.
A.
Washer: One heavy-duty residential.
B.
Dryer: One heavy-duty residential.
C.
Laundry Tub/Sink: One.
D.
Work Table: One.
E.
Cabinets: Base and wall cabinets for cloth and sewing accessories, laundry
supplies and temporary storage of laundered items. Cabinets with hanging rods
for storage of large table linens, which are never folded (except SOR).

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 81

COMMENTARY
5.3.7
5.3.8
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Maintenance: Provide tile floor and wainscot.Walls and ceiling shall be easily
cleaned and maintained.
B.

C.
Ducts: Provide rigid ducts for connection of clothes dryer exhaust.
D.
Buzzer System: The buzzer system for summoning staff shall signal in this room
(except SOR).
E.
General Storage
1.
FUNCTION Storage room for tables, chairs, luggage, trunks and other bulk items.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Convenient to the service entrance.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Provide heavy-duty shelving, 500 mm deep,

along the walls.
5.
A.
Climate Control: This room shall be heated and air conditioned to prevent
warping and mildew.
B.
Mechanical Space
1.
FUNCTION Space for mechanical equipment and electrical switchgear.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the service entrance. Readily accessible to the other service
spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Mechanical equipment and electrical switchgear.
5.
A.
Rooms: This space may be divided between two or more rooms if required by
the design or building regulations.
B.

construction.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 82

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
C.
D.
Location: Care should be taken in the location of the mechanical spaces and
design of construction and mounting details to isolate mechanical noise from the
rest of the residence. Provide sound insulation and vibration isolation as
warranted.
E.
Size: The size will vary according to climatic conditions and type of mechanical
system used.
F.
6.0
6.1
Overview Staff's quarters include a Staff's Hall, a staff's bedroom and bath, and staff's locker rooms. This
area shall be readily accessible to the other service spaces. Requirements for staff's quarters will vary
according to local customs and the availability of staff in the host country. In SOR, staff will not usually
reside in the residence, but are hired for service during the day or night.
6.2

6.2.1
6.2.2
Deputy Chief of Mission Residence (DCR) - STAFF'S QUARTERS ZONE

CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
NSM
NSM
NSM
Staff's Hall
14
14
14
Men's Locker Room
05
05
05
Women's Locker Room
05
05
05
Staff's Bedroom
12
12
12
Staff's Bath
04
04
04
Subtotals
40
40
40
DCR STAFF'S QUARTERS SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM See Subsection

5.2.1.2.
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
Staff's Bedroom
12
12
12
Staff's Bath
04
04
04

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 83

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Staff's Toilet
6.2.3
02
02
Subtotals
18
18
18
Consul General and Consul Residence (CGR) - STAFF'S QUARTERS SPACES ZONE
6.2.4
CGR STAFF'S QUARTERS SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM See Subsection

5.2.2.3.
6.2.5
Executive-Level Officer Residence (SOR) - SOR STAFF'S QUARTERS SPACES SPACE

ALLOWANCES
Staff's Toilet
6.2.6
6.3
02
02
02
02
SOR STAFF'S QUARTERS SPACES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM See Subsection

5.2.3.2.
Descriptions of Staff's Quarters Spaces See Subsection 6.2 for room sizes.
6.3.1
6.3.2
Staff's Hall (DCR only)

1.
FUNCTION A multipurpose room used by staff for eating and relaxing when not on duty.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Locker Rooms. Readily accessible to the Kitchen.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Dining table, chairs, buffet, sofa, occasional

tables and accessories.
5.
A.
Occupants: This room must accommodate both "live-in" staff and temporary
help.
B.
Buzzer System: The buzzer system for summoning staff shall signal in this room.
C.
Local Customs: Requirements for staff's quarters will vary and be provided on a
site specific basis, according to local customs and the availability of staff in the
host country.
Men's Locker Room (with Bathroom) (DCR only)

1.
FUNCTION Shared locker and toilet facilities for temporary male employees.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Staff's Hall.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 84

COMMENTARY
4.
5.
6.3.3
6.3.4
6.3.5
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Locker Room: 4 lockers
B.
A.
Ventilation: This room should be ventilated.
B.
Hardware: Privacy lock on bathroom door.
Women's Locker Room (with Bathroom) (DCR only)

1.
FUNCTION Shared locker and toilet facilities for temporary female employees. At posts
that have no female employees and are not likely to in the future, this space shall be
included in the Men's Locker Room.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to four persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Staff's Hall.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT See Subsection 6.3.2.4.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS See Subsection 6.3.2.5.
Staff's Bedroom (DCR and CGR only)

1.
FUNCTION Sleeping quarters for "live-in" staff(s).
2.
OCCUPANCY One or two persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Staff's Bath. Near the Staff's Hall.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT include a twin bed, night stand, chest of drawers,

chair, mirror and lamp.
5.
A.
Closet: 1200 mm of closet space with storage above.
B.
Local Customs: Typically, one staff's bedroom and bath will be provided although
requirements for staff's quarters will vary according to local custom and
availability of staff.
C.
Staff's Bath (DCR and CGR only)

1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities for the Staff's Bedroom.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 85

COMMENTARY
6.3.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Staff's Bedroom.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Counter and base cabinet with sink, tub/shower

and water closet.
5.
A.
Ventilation: This room shall be ventilated.
B.
Heat: Auxiliary heat should be provided in some climates.
C.
Staff's Toilet (CGR and SOR only)

1.
FUNCTION Toilet facilities for temporary employees.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near Service Entrance and accessible to all service areas.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Counter and base cabinet with sink, water closet.
5.
A.
B.
7.0
Attached Or Outside Structures
7.1
Overview This category includes spaces and structures which can vary widely between posts in terms of
configuration and size. DCM and Consul General residences, especially those located in harsh climates,
require large, drive-through covered entrances to protect arriving guests from extreme weather conditions. .
Residential compounds will be provided with parking (detached garages, parking lot or parking garage) and
garden storage on a site specific basis.
7.2

7.2.1
Deputy Chief of Mission Residence (DCR) - ATTACHED OR OUTSIDE STRUCTURES ZONE
Garage
CAT. I
CAT. II
CAT. III
GSM
GSM
GSM
46
46
46
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 86

COMMENTARY
Garden Storage
05
05
05
Covered Entrance
28
28
28
Subtotals
79
79
79
7.2.2
DCR ATTACHED OR OUTSIDE STRUCTURES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM See

Subsection 5.2.1.2.
7.2.3
Consul General and Consul Residence (CGR) - CONSUL GENERAL ATTACHED OR OUTSIDE
STRUCTURES ZONE
7.2.4
7.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
GSM
GSM
GSM
Garage
46
46
46
Garden Storage
05
05
05
Covered Entrance
28
28
28
Subtotals
79
79
79
CONSUL ATTACHED OR OUTSIDE STRUCTURES ZONE

Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
GSM
GSM
GSM
Garage
46
46
46
Garden Storage
05
05
05
Subtotals
51
51
51
7.2.5
CGR ATTACHED OR OUTSIDE STRUCTURES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM See

Subsection 5.2.2.3.
7.2.6
SOR ATTACHED OR OUTSIDE STRUCTURES FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM See

Subsection 5.2.3.2.
Descriptions of Attached or Outside Structures See Subsection 7.2 for room sizes.
7.3.1
Garage
1.
FUNCTION Parking for official and private vehicles.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 87

COMMENTARY
7.3.2
7.3.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
2.
OCCUPANCY Two vehicles.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to the Family Entry/Stair and Service Entrance.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Provide automatic garage door opener.
5.
A.
Provide hose Bib and floor drains for vehicle washing.
B.
Provide heat and ventilation on a site specific.
C.
Provide electrical service.
D.
Hardware: Locksets.
Garden Storage
1.
FUNCTION Storage of grounds maintenance equipment and supplies.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to the service area.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Shelves, hangers and mountings as necessary.
5.
A.
Size: The size of this room may vary according to the size of the residence
property.
B.
Ventilation: Provide natural ventilation.
C.
Electrical Service: Provide electrical service for charging of electrical equipment.
D.
Hardware: This room should be lockable.
Covered Entrance (DCR and CGR only)

1.
FUNCTION A protected exterior space for arriving and departing guest.
2.
3.
4.
5.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 88

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Size: The required size for the covered entrance can vary greatly due to climatic
conditions and other factors. When a drive-through "Porte Cochere" is
appropriate, adequate room should be provided to permit passengers to exit from
either side of a car and to circulate around it to enter the residence.
B.
Design: The design of this structure should express continuity with the design of
the residence itself. The Covered Entrance is an important part of the
progression of spaces in the residences and therefore requires careful study
during the design process. Views from this space are important and should be
considered during the site planning phase of schematic design.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 89

COMMENTARY
STAFF OFFICER HOUSING (SDA)
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
CHAPTER 3
BUILDING PLANNING
1.0
General
1.1
Background U.S. Embassies, Consulates General and Consulates around the world are staffed by Foreign
Service Officers of the Department of State. The Office of OBO provides housing for the staff in order that
their standard of living might be comparable to that in the United States.
1.2
Building Form Although OBO has traditionally purchased or leased some single family residences for the
use of Staff Officers (SDA), newly constructed units will generally be apartments. The final building form will
be determined largely by the number of units required and the size and location of the site. Occasionally,
where conditions warrant, single family residences may be built.
1.3
Typical Spaces A Staff Officer's residence is a typical living unit. Required spaces include a Living Room,
Den, Dining Room, Bedrooms and Baths, Kitchen, and service and storage areas.
1.4
Representational Spaces Design of a Mid-Level Officer's unit is essentially the same as for other Staff
Officer housing except that the Living Room, Dining Room and Kitchen of a Mid-Level Officer's residence is
sized to allow for limited representational entertaining.
1.5
Staff Requirements for staff's quarters will vary according to local customs and traditions of the host
country. Typically, staff will not reside in the residence, but are hired for service during the day or evening.
1.6
Common Spaces When residences are combined into a single, multi-family structure, common spaces
such as an elevator lobby, circulation corridors, site maintenance storage rooms and mechanical spaces
may be required. In addition, bin storage facilities for each unit, usually in the form of wire cages to allow for
proper ventilation, should be provided in a single, secure common location.
1.7
Climate When possible and appropriate, each unit should be designed to take advantage of natural
cross-ventilation and available sunlight. In harsh climates, the design of the residence should minimize the
effects of extreme weather conditions. Where conditions permit, balconies and/or exterior terraces are
desirable.
1.8
Site Planning and Landscaping are key elements in the design of multi-family housing. Trees, shrubs,
flowers and lawns should be used to enhance the building(s) and the site. Indigenous varieties of plants
should be used to the extent possible, and in general only plants that are suitable for the local climate
should be provided. Where a large number of units are grouped on a single site, a swimming pool, cabaa
and tennis court may be provided in appropriate climates. In such cases, security fences will be necessary.
OBO will provide guidance on the requirements for these facilities.
1.9
Entrances into each unit or building should be attractive and clearly defined. Separate site access for
services and trash removal is required, and should be screened from the rest of the site. On-site parking
equivalent to 1 1/2 spaces per unit should be provided. In severe climates, garages or car shelters may be
required, and in the case of a multi-story apartment building on a small site, an underground garage may be
necessary.
1.10
Image As with all official American facilities in foreign countries, the residence of an SDA is symbolic of the
U.S. presence. The desire for American standards of high quality and comfort should be tempered with

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 90

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
respect for the local customs and traditions, and should be sensitive to the image projected to the local
populace. The residence should express its representational nature in terms of quality rather than luxury,
respect rather than dominance, and openness rather than isolation.
2.0
Functional Relationships
2.1
Space Interrelationships The accompanying diagram depicts the interrelationships of spaces within the
residence of a Mid-Level Officer. The spaces shown depict the requirements for a five bedroom unit in
Locality Type 3. The spaces are shown as graphic scale representations of the program areas, but are not
to be construed as desirable configurations for the finished spaces. The final space configurations are to be
determined by the design architect.
2.2
SDA Functional Zones

Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
1BR/Den, 2BR:
02
02
02
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den:
03
03
03
5BR
03
03
03
1BR/Den:
21
23
26
2BR:
26
28
30
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den:
28
30
33
5BR
28
30
33
1BR/Den:
16
16
16
2BR:
16
19
21
3BR/Den:
21
23
23
4BR/Den:
23
23
26
5BR:
Family Room
23
26
26
5BR:
16
19
21
ENTERTAINMENT SPACES
Entrance Foyer
Living Room
Dining Room

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 91

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
01
01
01
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den:
02
02
02
5BR:
03
03
03
2BR, 3BR/Den:
09
09
09
4BR/Den:
09
09
09
5BR:
12
12
12
1BR/Den, 2BR:
19
21
23
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den,5BR:
21
23
26
02
02
02
04
05
06
05
06
07
1BR/Den:
05
06
06
2BR through 5BR:
06
06
06
2BR (1):
16
16
16
3BR/Den (2):
33
33
33
4BR/Den (3):
49
49
49
5BR (4):
65
65
65
02
02
02
Coat Closet
Guest Toilet
FAMILY SPACES
Breakfast Area
Master Bedroom
Master Bedroom Closet

1BR/Den:
2BR:
3BR/Den,4BR/Den, 5BR:
Master Bath
Family Bedroom(s)

2BR (1):
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 92

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
3BR/Den (2):
NSM
05
NSM
05
NSM
05
4BR/Den (3):
07
07
07
5BR (4):
09
09
09
1BR/Den, 2BR (1):
05
05
05
3BR/Den (2):
09
09
09
4BR/Den, 5BR (3):
14
14
14
1BR/Den:
12
12
14
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den:
16
16
16
1BR/Den:
02
02
02
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den:
02
02
02
1BR/Den, 2BR,3BR/Den:
01
01
01
4BR/Den, 5BR:
01
01
01
1BR/Den:
07
07
07
2BR:
09
12
14
3BR/Den:
12
14
16
4BR/Den, 5BR:
15
16
19
1BR/Den:
01
03
04
2BR:
01
03
04
3BR/Den:
02
05
06
4BR/Den:
02
05
07
5BR:
02
07
09
Family Bathroom(s)
Den
Den Closet
Linen Storage
SERVICE SPACES
Kitchen
Food Storage

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 93

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
1BR/Den, 2BR:
01
01
01
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den:
03
03
03
5BR:
04
04
04
1BR/Den:
02
04
05
2BR:
04
05
06
3BR/Den:
05
06
07
4BR/Den, 5BR:
07
09
12
Mechanical Space
07
07
07
1BR/Den:
104
112
121
2BR:
129
142
154
3BR/Den:
189
203
214
4BR/Den:
221
233
248
5BR:
242
261
275
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
02
02
02
Laundry Room
General Storage
TOTAL NET AREAS
2.3
OTHER STAFF OFFICER SPACE ZONES
ENTERTAINMENT SPACES
Entrance Foyer

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 94

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
NSM
NSM
1BR/Den:
18
21
23
2BR:
23
26
28
3BR/Den:
26
28
30
4BR/Den, 5BR:
28
30
33
1BR/Den:
15
15
15
2BR:
15
16
19
3BR/Den:
21
21
23
4BR/Den:
21
23
26
5BR:
21
23
26
5BR:
14
16
19
Coat Closet
01
01
01
02
02
02
3 & 4BR/Den:
09
09
09
5BR:
12
12
12
1BR/Den:
17
19
21
2BR thru 5BR:
19
21
23
1BR/Den, 2BR:
02
02
02
3BR/Den, 4BR/Den,5BR:
05
06
07
Living Room
Dining Room
Family Room
Guest Toilet
5BR:
FAMILY SPACES
Breakfast Area
Master Bedroom
Master Bedroom Closet
Master Bath
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 95

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
05
NSM
05
NSM
05
06
06
06
2BR (1):
16
16
16
3BR/Den (2):
33
33
33
4BR/Den (3):
49
49
49
5BR (4):
65
65
65
2BR (1):
02
02
02
3BR/Den (2):
05
05
05
4BR/Den (3):
07
07
07
5BR (4):
09
09
09
1BR/Den (1):
04
04
04
2BR (1):
05
05
05
3BR/Den (2):
09
09
09
4BR/Den, 5BR (3):
14
14
14
1BR/Den:
12
12
14
3 & 4BR/Den:
16
16
16
1BR/Den:
02
02
02
3 & 4BR/Den:
02
02
02
01
01
01
1BR/Den:
2BR thru 5BR:
Family Bedroom(s)
Family Bathroom(s)
Den
Den Closet
Linen Storage
1BR/Den, 2BR,3BR/Den,4BR/Den, 5BR:
SERVICE SPACES
Kitchen
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 96

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Locality
Locality
Locality
Type 1
Type 2
Type 3
NSM
06
NSM
07
NSM
07
2BR:
07
09
12
3BR/Den:
09
12
14
4BR/Den, 5BR:
12
13
14
1BR/Den:
01
03
04
2BR:
01
03
04
3BR/Den:
02
04
05
4BR/Den:
02
05
07
5BR:
02
07
09
1BR/Den, 2BR,3BR/Den:
01
01
01
4BR/Den, 5BR:
03
03
03
1BR/Den, 2BR:
02
04
05
3BR/Den:
04
05
06
4BR/Den, 5BR:
06
07
09
Mechanical Space
07
07
07
1BR/Den:
095
105
114
2BR:
111
122
133
3BR/Den:
177
188
200
4BR/Den:
209
223
236
5BR:
227
246
262
1BR/Den:
Food Storage
Laundry Room
General Storage
TOTAL NET AREAS

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 97

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
2.4
SDA Functional Zones Diagram
2.5
Descriptions of Spaces See Subsection `2.2 for room sizes.

2.5.1
2.5.2
Entrance Foyer
1.
FUNCTION Entrance to the residence.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Living Room and Coat Closet.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT may include a table and accessories.
5.
A.
Floor Finish should be durable, easily maintained, and resistant to water

damage.
B.
Doorbell should be provided outside the formal entrance.
C.
Exterior entrance door: Provide entrance lockset. The exterior entrance door
shall be well lighted..
Living Room

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 98

COMMENTARY
2.5.3
2.5.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
FUNCTION Living space for family oriented activities and entertaining.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to 10 persons
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Entrance Foyer and Dining Room.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings should have a residential character

and should, for the most part, be easily moved. Furnishings will include sofas,
upholstered chairs, occasional tables and chairs, and accessories.
5.
A.
Outdoor Terrace: Accessibility to an outdoor terrace is desirable where climate

and security considerations permit.
B.
C.
Hardware: Doors opening directly to balconies or terraces should be lockable,

and those at ground level should be protected by decorative metal grilles.
Dining Room
1.
FUNCTION Family dining and entertainment of guests.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Kitchen and Living Room.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings will include a dining table with up to

ten chairs, a buffet and a china cabinet.
5.
A.
Extension: This room may be an extension of the Living Room in an open plan
scheme.2
B.
Outdoor Terrace: Accessibility to outdoor terraces is desirable where climate and

security considerations permit.
C.
Hardware: Doors opening directly to balconies or terraces should be lockable,

and those at ground level should be protected by decorative metal grilles.
Family Room
1.
2.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 99

COMMENTARY
2.5.5
2.5.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Kitchen and Breakfast Room. Readily accessible to all
family spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings include sofa(s), upholstered chairs,

occasional tables and chairs, bookcases and accessories. Stereo components will be
located in this room.
5.
A.
Outdoor Terrace: Accessibility to an outdoor terrace is desirable.
B.
Extension: The Kitchen and Breakfast Area may be extensions of this room.
C.
D.

Coat Closet
1.
2.
OCCUPANCY None
3.
4.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS Space requirements may need to be increased in harsh

climates to accommodate overshoes and other heavy outer clothing.
Guest Toilet
1.
FUNCTION Toilet facilities for male and female guests.
2.
3.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT One lavatory and one water closet. Provide

mirror and appropriate accessories.
5.
A.
B.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 100

COMMENTARY
2.5.7
2.5.8
2.5.9
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Breakfast Area
1.
FUNCTION A space for informal family dining.
2.
3.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A breakfast table with 6 chairs.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS This room may be an extension of the Kitchen.
Master Bedroom
1.
FUNCTION A private, quiet room for sleeping and personal retreat for a Staff Officer and
spouse.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bath.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings will include a queen size bed, night

stands, a dresser, a chest of drawers, upholstered chairs and a table arranged in a small
sitting area, and accessories.
5.
A.

B.
C.
Hardware: A privacy lock should be provided.
D.

Master Bath
1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities serving the Master Bedroom.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Master Bedroom.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT A 1600 mm (minimum) counter with one sink and

base cabinets below, 1830 mm bathtub, separate shower (if spaces permits), water closet
(compartmentalized if possible) and appropriate accessories.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 101

COMMENTARY
5.
2.5.3
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
B.
Linen Closet: A small linen closet opening off the bath is desirable.
C.
Plumbing: should not be located on walls separating bathroom from bedroom.
D.
Hardware: A privacy lock should be provided.
Family Bedrooms
1.
FUNCTION Private, quiet rooms for sleeping and personal retreat for the family of a Staff
Officer.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Family Bathrooms. Readily accessible to other family

spaces.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings will include twin beds, a night stand,

dresser, chest of drawers, desk, chair, bookcase and accessories.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION
A.
Dimensions: These rooms should have a minimum dimension of 3600 mm and

B.
Closets: Provide closets with at least 3000 mm of hanging space. Closets may
be walk-in type or arranged along a bedroom wall.
C.
D.

E.
2.5.11 Family Baths

1.
FUNCTION Private bath and toilet facilities serving the Family Bedrooms.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Family Bedrooms.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 102

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.

5.
A.
B.
2.5.12 Den
3.
FUNCTION A additional space for casual, family oriented activities. Can also be used as
a guest bedroom, family bedroom, office, storage room or as a multi-purpose space.
2.
OCCUPANCY Varies
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the Living Room and Kitchen.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Furnishings will depend on the intended function

of the room.
5.
A.
Dimensions: This room should have a minimum dimension of 3600 mm and

should be designed to be suitable for a variety of uses.
B.
Closet: Provide closet with at least 3000 mm of hanging space. Closet may be
walk-in type or arranged along a bedroom wall.
C.
D.
E.


1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 103

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Shelving: Provide shelving 500 mm deep.
B.
C.
2.5.14 Kitchen
1.
FUNCTION Cooking and food preparation.
2.
OCCUPANCY Up to three persons.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Dining Room and Food Storage. Near Breakfast Area.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT will vary according to the size of the residence.

Below is the minimum equipment package for each Post:
5.
A.
Residential Range with oven and vent hood: One.
B.
C.
D.
Dishwasher: One under-cabinet dishwasher.
E.
A.
Maintenance: Floors and wainscots should be tile or other durable material.

Walls and ceilings should be easily cleaned.
B.
Ventilation: The Kitchen should be well ventilated. Air conditioning may be

required.
C.
Connections: Provide utility and drain connections as required.
2.5.15 Food Storage

1.
FUNCTION Storage of dry food, wine and household items.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Kitchen.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT 350 mm deep shelving, floor to ceiling, and a

wine rack.
5.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 104

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
A.
Size: The size of this room is dependent on the availability of suitable food
supplies on the local market. Refer to site specific requirements.
B.
Climate Control: This room should not have windows and should be kept cool
and dry. Air conditioning will be required in some climates.
C.
Extermination: Precautions should be taken to insure that the room is as insect

and rodent proof as possible.
D.
2.5.16 Laundry Room

1.
FUNCTION A room for all laundry activities.
2.
RELATIONSHIP Readily accessible to the bedrooms and Kitchen.
5.
A.
Washer: One heavy-duty residential washer.
B.
Dryer: One heavy-duty residential dryer.
C.
Sink: One laundry sink where space permits.
D.
Cabinets: Base and wall cabinets as space permits.
A.
Maintenance: Floor and wainscot should be tile or other highly durable material,
and walls and ceiling should be easily cleaned and maintained.
B.

C.
Ducts: Provide rigid ducts for connection of clothes dryer to outside exhaust.
D.
2.5.17 General Storage

1.
FUNCTION: Storage room for luggage, trunks and other bulk items.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Accessibility from within the unit is preferred.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 105

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Heavy-duty shelving, 500 mm deep, along one

wall.
5.
A.
Climate Control: This room should be heated and air conditioned to prevent
warping and mildew.
B.
2.5.18 Mechanical Space

1.
FUNCTION Space for mechanical and electrical equipment.
2.
3.
RELATIONSHIP Near the service entrance.
4.
FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Mechanical and electrical equipment.
5.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:
A.

construction.
B.
C.
Location: Care should be taken in the location of the mechanical spaces and
design of construction and mounting details to isolate mechanical noise from the
rest of the residence. Provide sound insulation and vibration isolation as
warranted.
D.
Size: Varies according to climatic conditions and type of mechanical system

used.
E.
Hardware Storeroom lock.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 106

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
MARINE SECURITY GUARD QUARTERS (MSGQ)

1.0
General
1.1
Background The primary mission of Marine Security Guards (MSGs) is to provide internal security
services at designated U.S. diplomatic and consular facilities abroad, to prevent the compromise of
classified information and equipment vital to the national security of the United States. The secondary
mission of MSGs is to provide protection for U.S. citizens and U.S. Government property located within
designated U.S. diplomatic and consular premises during exigent circumstances (urgent temporary
circumstances which require immediate aid or action). These detachments will be prepared to execute
plans for the protection of the mission and its personnel as directed by the Chief of Mission or Principal
Officer.
1.1.1
Size MSG Detachments range in size from five six (five Watch-standers and one Detachment
Commander one Noncommissioned Officer-in-Charge, or NCOIC) to twenty-nine (27 Watchstanders, a Detachment Commander and an Assistant Detachment Commander). The
Detachment Commander will normally be housed separate from the MSGQ, but a room should be
available for his use.
1.1.2
Assignment Selection for a tour in the MSG Program is an honor, reflective of superior
performance under difficult screening and training criteria. Watch-standers assigned to the MSG
Program are typically young (20 25) Lance Corporals to Sergeants (E-3 to E-5) and have 2-5
years experience in the Marine Corps. The 30-month tour of duty with the MSG Program
represents the first opportunity for many of these Marines to live abroad and away from a military
infrastructure.
1.1.3
Environment In addition to being far from home, Embassy duty is atypical of Marine Corps service,
requiring the Marines to cope with some unusual personal pressures. Within the MSGQ, each
Marine must live in a "family" not of his or her own choosing, with whom he or she may or may not
be fully compatible. Activities outside the compound are often unavailable or unaffordable and
confinement to the MSGQ may be mandatory due to hostility in the host country. Under these
circumstances it is important that the quarters provide a pleasant, open environment and critical
that opportunities for privacy and quiet relaxation are afforded.
1.1.4
Personnel Both female and male Marines may be assigned to a MSG Detachment. All aspects of
MSG design must recognize any special considerations based on this shared environment.
1.2
Off-Duty Activities The Marines provide 24-hour a day security for the U.S. diplomatic Post to which they
are assigned. The Marines work a rotating shift so some of the Marines will be off-duty and some will be
sleeping at any time of the day. Off-duty time may be spent maintaining equipment, cleaning private and
community spaces, in physical training or at leisure activities. The Marines are responsible for the daily
housekeeping and minor maintenance of the MSGQ both inside and out. In addition, they are expected to
remain alert and physically fit and must be prepared to stand inspection at any time. Jogging, weight lifting
and calisthenics are the principle means of maintaining physical fitness. Though often it is not possible to
provide even small playing fields in the urban environments where most embassies are located, every effort
is made to provide opportunities for exercise both indoors and out.
1.3
Design The MSG shall be housed in a flexible environment where a variety of activities can take place. A
successful design will satisfy not only the aesthetic and functional requirements of the building, but the
private and community needs of the Marines who will live there.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 107

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.4
Sound Isolation Criteria
2.0
MSGQ Compound
2.1
General The MSGQ functions like a home. Primary spaces include private bedrooms, bathrooms,
recreation room, dining room, common kitchen, lounge/service-staff quarters, laundry, and storage rooms.
Semi-private rooms that serve both as a living/meeting room and small conference space for the
Detachment Commander and a dedicated exercise room are other requirements for the typical compound.
2.2
2.3
Refer to OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 12 for Sound Isolation Criteria.
2.1.1
ENTERTAINMENT Frequent gatherings of the Embassy staff and friends are traditional at many
most foreign overseas Posts. The main living recreation area must be flexible enough to
accommodate these large gatherings as well as daily activities such as dining, playing billiards,
darts, listening to music and watching movies. The capability to partition off smaller areas so
thatfor different activities can to take place at the same time is required. A bar shall be provided,
and shall be accessible to the living area but independent of the kitchen.
2.1.2
SERVICE FUNCTIONS shall be grouped in one area of the compound in order to control employee
access to the remainder of the MSGQ. The layout of employee areas will also be affected by the
availability of paid staff in a particular country and the need for Marines to perform some of these
tasks themselves. Live-in cooks are economically advantageous in most foreign countries and will
require quarters within the compound. Employees to do laundry and ironing are usually hired for
service during normal working hours.
Supplementary Outdoor Spaces

2.2.1
ENTERTAINMENT AND EXERCISE AREA An outdoor area for entertaining and exercise,
accessible to both the main living recreation room and the exercise room. This area shall
accommodate mats from the exercise room and, in some instances, other outdoor activities such
as horseshoes and volleyball. A terrace suitable for expanding social activities outdoors from the
main living recreation room shall be included. In appropriate climates, a permanent outdoor
barbecue grille may be provided.
2.2.2
BASKETBALL COURT A separate basketball court shall be provided when site characteristics
allow.
2.2.3
SECURE PARKING (covered) for two vehicles.
2.2.4
POOL Selected Posts may be provided a pool. See Section 19.3.
2.2.5
PLANTERS, GROUND COVER AND EASILY MAINTAINABLE TREES should be included in the
design of the MSGQ when the MSGQ is not part of an Embassy compound design.
Flexibility
2.3.1
Occupant Load The facility's site plan and floor plan shall accommodate the present occupant load
and the projected five-year occupant load without alteration.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 108

COMMENTARY
3.0
Functional Relationships
3.1
MSGQ Space Allowances (Per SRP)

3.1.1
Outdoor Areas
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
14 MARINES
NSM
10 MARINES
NSM
5 MARINES
NSM
139
139
116
126
265
84
223
42
158
14 MARINES
10 MARINES
5 MARINES
NSM
NSM
NSM
07
21
03
53
26
14
08
05
26
08
08
16
05
09
17
60
16
22
196(14)
42(3)
28(17)
61(17)
28
32
711
07
21
03
50
24
12
08
05
22
07
07
14
05
07
13
46
16
22
140(10)
28(2)
20(12)
46(12)
20
28
571
07
17
02
47
22
09
08
05
19
07
07
12
03
05
10
32
12
22
70(5)
28(2)
10(7)
27(7)
10
18
409
Terrace, Exercise Yard, Service

Court
Parking
TOTAL OUTDOOR AREAS
3.1.2
Interior Areas
Entry
Living/Meeting Room
Living/Meeting Room Storage
Recreation Room
Dining Room
Bar
Bar Storage
Guest Bathroom
Kitchen
Pantry
Food Storage
Laundry
Linen Storage
Storage Maintenance
Storage General
Exercise Room
Exercise Bathroom
Lounge/Service-staff Quarters
Bedrooms
TDY Bedrooms
Bedroom Closets
Private Bathrooms
Storage, Personal Effects
Mechanical Room
TOTAL INTERIOR AREAS

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 109

COMMENTARY
4.0
Descriptions of Spaces
4.1
Entry
4.2
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.1.1
FUNCTION Residence access to the MSGQ (This is the normal entrance for Marine residents and
guests).
4.1.2
OCCUPANCY Up to six persons.
4.1.3
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the main Recreation Room.

compound entrance.
4.1.4
Near Guest Toilets and MSGQ
1.
APPEARANCE Entry shall be inviting and residential.
2.
VIEW Entry shall be screened from the main Recreation Room.
3.
FLOORING shall be durable and moisture resistant.
4.
Security Considerations Because of increasing incidents of terrorist attacks, security

concerns for this area have increased and the ultimate location relative to visibility and
accessibility shall be considered an important element.
Living/Meeting Room
4.2.1
FUNCTION A quiet, semi-private sitting room, away from the main Recreation Room, for reading,
studying and entertaining guests of Marines. Occasionally used for meetings.
4.2.2
OCCUPANCY Based on occupancy of the residence.
4.2.3
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Entry. Near Guest Toilet.
4.2.4
FURNISHINGS
4.2.5
1.
SOFA(S), UPHOLSTERED CHAIRS, END TABLES and a COFFEE TABLE.
2.
BOOKSHELVES.
3.
DESK OR TABLE AND CHAIRS. (Include a lockable 2-drawer file cabinet, which can be
integral with desk.)
4.
MULTI-MEDIA EQUIPMENT for training use.
1.
SOUND INSULATION The room shall be sufficiently sound insulated to insure the privacy
of normal conversations within and to block out noise from adjacent spaces.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 110

COMMENTARY
2.
4.3
HARDWARE Privacy lock.
Living/Meeting Room Closet

4.3.1
FUNCTION Storage for the Living/Meeting Room, including audio-visual equipment.
4.3.2
OCCUPANCY None.
4.3.3
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Living/Meeting Room.
4.3.4
FINISHES AND MILLWORK
4.3.5
4.4
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
MILLWORK 450mm deep adjustable shelves on at least one wall.
2.
WINDOW TREATMENTS Blackout shades shall be provided for viewing videos/training

media.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS Storeroom lock.
Recreation Room
4.4.1
FUNCTION Flexible space for a variety of recreational activities. May serve as the main
entertainment area for the frequent gatherings of Embassy staff that are traditional at many Posts.
4.4.2
OCCUPANCY Up to the entire MSG Detachment assigned to the Post, less on-duty Marine(s),
plus visitors and party guests.
4.4.3
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Bar, Dining, Entry, Guest Toilet and Outdoor Terrace.
4.4.4
4.4.5
1.
SOFA(S), UPHOLSTERED CHAIRS, END TABLES AND COFFEE TABLE.
2.
STORAGE CABINETS with space for items such as books and games.
3.
DART BOARD.
4.
BILLIARD TABLE.
5.
LARGE SCREEN TV (size varies)
FINISHES
1.
FLOORING Shall be durable and moisture resistant.
2.
WINDOW TREATMENTS Blackout shades shall be provided for viewing movies.
3.
FINISHES AND FURNISHINGS shall be representational and must be extremely durable

and maintainable.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 111

COMMENTARY
4.4.6
4.5
SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS
1.
"LINE OF SIGHT" Careful attention shall be given to "line of sight" security. Because
Marine social functions have been specifically targeted in the past, the threat to Marines
and guests from flying glass and debris shall be considered in the design.
2.
REACT RESPONSE The MSG must be able to move quickly and undetected to a van, or
directly to the Chancery, in the event of an emergency.
Dining Room
4.5.1
FUNCTION Shall serve as the main dining room as well as alternately used during the frequent
gatherings of Embassy staff that are traditional at many Posts.
4.5.2
OCCUPANCY Up to the entire MSG Detachment assigned to the Post, less on-duty Marine(s),
plus visitors and party guests.
4.5.3
RELATIONSHIP Immediately adjacent to the Recreation Room, adjacent to the Kitchen.
4.5.4
FURNISHINGS
4.5.5
4.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
DINING ROOM TABLE AND CHAIRS shall accommodate a minimum of 12 persons for a
minimum size detachment. The size of the table shall increase with the increased
detachment size.
2.
CHINA CABINET with space for items such as books and games.
3.
SIDE BOARD.
FINISHES
1.
2.
FINISHES AND FURNISHINGS must be extremely durable and maintainable. Finishes

shall be representational and match those of the Recreation Room.
3.
FRENCH DOORS that open up to the main Recreation Room. These doors shall either
be pocket doors or swing 180 degrees into the Recreation Room.
Bar
4.6.1
FUNCTION A commercial size bar for serving beer, wine, and mixed drinks.
4.6.2
OCCUPANCY One to three Marines behind the bar.
4.6.3
RELATIONSHIP Immediately adjacent to or within the Recreation Room. Near the outdoor
terrace.
4.6.4
MILLWORK/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 112

COMMENTARY
4.6.5
4.6.6
4.7
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
SERVING COUNTER AND MIXING COUNTER. A foot rest and coat/purse hooks shall
be provided under the serving counter on the guest side.
2.
DOUBLE SINK.
3.
COMMERCIAL ICE MAKER.
4.
LARGE BEER COOLER.
5.
REFRIGERATOR.
6.
LOCKABLE LIQUOR CABINET.
7.
SHELVES FOR STORAGE AND DISPLAY.
8.
BAR STOOLS.
1.
APPEARANCE The bar shall be attractive and accessible to guests at social occasions.
2.
SIZE The size of the bar will vary with the size of the Post.
3.
LOCATION The bar shall be independent of the Kitchen.
SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS
1.
"LINE OF SIGHT" Careful attention shall be given to "line of sight" security. Because
Marine social functions have been specifically targeted in the past, the threat to Marines
and guests from flying glass and debris shall be considered in the design.
2.
LOCKABLE DRAWER A lockable cash drawer will be required during social events for
periodic cash "drops" to prevent theft.
Bar Storage
4.7.1
FUNCTION To store a variety of beverages.
4.7.2
OCCUPANCY None.
4.7.3
RELATIONSHIP Immediately adjacent to the Bar.
4.7.4
1.
STORAGE SHELVING shall be flexible, heavy duty, and shall be configured for efficient
storage and access to beverages and supplies.
2.
ICE MAKER.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 113

COMMENTARY
4.7.5
FINISHES
1.
4.8
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Guest Toilets
4.8.1
FUNCTION Separate male and female toilet facilities for Marines and their guests using the
Recreation Room or the Living/Meeting Room.
4.8.2
4.8.3
RELATIONSHIP
Entry.
4.8.4
FIXTURES
Adjacent to the Recreation Room, Living/Meeting Room, Dining Room and
4.8.4.1 LAVATORY AND WATER CLOSET.

4.8.4.2 LARGE MIRROR WITH SHELF and other appropriate accessories.
4.8.4.3 GRAB BARS in compliance with the ABA.
4.8.5
4.9
1.
MAINTENANCE All fixtures shall be heavy duty and easily maintained.
2.
ACCESS Accessible in compliance with ABA.
3.
VENTILATION Provide mechanical ventilation.
4.
5.
COAT HOOK on the door.
Kitchen
4.9.1
FUNCTION Cooking, food preparation, and a small informal dining area.
4.9.2
OCCUPANCY Up to five persons.
4.9.3
RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to Pantry and Food Storage and the Dining Room.
4.9.4
1.
COOKING RANGE/OVEN WITH VENT HOOD.
2.
MICROWAVE OVEN.
3.
DOUBLE SINK WITH DISPOSER.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 114

COMMENTARY
4.9.5
4.10
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.
DISHWASHER.
5.
REFRIGERATORS (TWO MINIMUM).
6.
LOCKABLE FREEZER (TWO MINIMUM FOR DETACHMENTS LARGER THAN TEN

PERSONS).
7.
WALL AND BASE CABINETS.
8.
TABLE WITH TWO TO FOUR CHAIRS.
9.
FOOD PROCESSOR.
10.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.
1.
STORAGE Due to the differing work shifts of the Marines, food must often be prepared
and stored. Ample refrigerator storage and microwave heating capacity shall be provided.
2.
A SMALL DINING SPACE OR SNACK AREA separate from the main dining area shall be
provided within the kitchen for Marines preparing to go on duty.
3.
A COMMERCIAL-GRADE RANGE and dishwasher may be required for larger MSG units.
4.
HARDWARE Some cabinets and drawers shall be lockable.
Pantry Storage
4.10.1 FUNCTION The Pantry stores daily use kitchen items.
4.10.2 OCCUPANCY None permanent.
4.10.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Kitchen.
4.10.4 MILLWORK/SPECIALTIES Adjustable shelving.
4.10.5 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
1.
CLIMATE CONTROL This space shall be cool, dry, and without windows.
2.
A WALK-IN SPACE lined with open adjustable shelves is preferable.
3.
SIZE The size of this space indicated in MSGQ Space Allowances is minimum. The size
of this room is dependent on the availability of suitable food supplies on the local market.
Refer to site specific requirements.
4.
SERVICE DOOR A strong, service door that swings in both directions is required.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 115

COMMENTARY
4.11
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Food Storage
4.11.1 FUNCTION Holds food purchased in bulk.
4.11.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Kitchen. Usually accessed through or next to the Pantry.
4.11.4 MILLWORK/SPECIALTIES Adjustable shelving.
4.12
1.
CLIMATE CONTROL This space shall be cool, dry, and without windows.
2.
A WALK-IN SPACE lined with open adjustable shelves is preferable.
3.
SIZE The areas listed in Subsection 3.2.2 shall be considered the minimum required at
any Post. Some Posts may require more space for "consumables" storage.
4.
SERVICE DOOR A strong, securely locking service door is required.
5.
HARDWARE Food Storage must be lockable. It will only be accessible to the Marine in
charge of administering food supplies.
Bedrooms
4.12.1 FUNCTION A private, quiet room and sleeping quarters for one Marine.
4.12.2 OCCUPANCY One person.
4.12.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Private bathroom. Near TDY Bedrooms.
4.12.4 FURNISHINGS/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
1.
ONE FULL SIZE BED.
2.
ONE NIGHT STAND WITH LAMP telephone service shall be located near the night stand.
3.
WRITING DESK WITH CHAIR
4.
UPHOLSTERED CHAIR.
5.
CHEST OF DRAWERS.
6.
WARDROBE.
7.
FULL LENGTH MIRROR.
8.
SHELVING for books and stereo equipment.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 116

COMMENTARY
9.
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
BLACKOUT SHADES OR DRAPERY.
4.13
1.
NOISE CONTROL and isolation is extremely important. Refer to OBO-ICS IBC Chapter
12 for Sound Isolation Criteria. Stained hardwood solid core wood doors and carpet shall
be used.
2.
FINISHES shall be durable and washable.
3.
SIZE One 14 SM (minimum) bedroom per Marine.
4.
5.
ACCESS The bedroom area shall be off-limits to non-Marine visitors.
6.
ALARM SYSTEM Individual bedrooms shall be connected to the central alert alarm
system.
TDY Bedrooms
4.13.1 FUNCTION Bedrooms for TDY Marines and to accommodate transitioning Marines or fluctuations
in detachment sizes.
4.13.2 OCCUPANCY One person.
4.13.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Private bathroom. Near Marine Bedrooms.
1.
ONE FULL SIZE BED.
2.
3.
WRITING DESK WITH CHAIR
4.
UPHOLSTERED CHAIR.
5.
CHEST OF DRAWERS.
6.
WARDROBE.
7.
FULL LENGTH MIRROR.
8.
9.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 117

COMMENTARY
4.14
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
NOISE CONTROL and isolation is extremely important. Refer to OBO-ICS IBC Chapter
12 for Sound Isolation Criteria. Stained hardwood solid core wood doors and carpet shall
be used.
2.
FINISHES shall be durable and washable.
3.
A SMALL BALCONY off of each bedroom can help block noise and views from the street
and can shade the room below, improving energy efficiency.
4.
SIZE One 14 SM (minimum) bedroom.
5.
6.
ACCESS The bedroom area shall be off-limits to non-Marine visitors.
7.
ALARM SYSTEM Individual bedrooms shall be connected to the central alert alarm
system.
Bedroom Closets
4.14.1 FUNCTION Clothes closets for Marine and Guest bedrooms.
4.14.2 OCCUPANCY None.
4.14.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Marine Bedrooms and Guest Bedrooms.
4.14.4 SPECIALTIES Hanging rod and shelf.
4.14.5 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS Provide at least 1829mm of hanging space per closet.
4.15
Private Bathrooms
4.15.1 FUNCTION Private toilet and combination full size bathtub/shower facilities for each Marine and
TDY bedroom.
4.15.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to each Marine bedroom and TDY bedroom.
4.15.4 FIXTURES
1.
LAVATORY w/ base cabinet, water closet, shower.
2.
MEDICINE CABINET w/ mirror.
3.
ROBE HOOK on the back of the door
4.
SHOWER CURTAIN ROD
5.
FULL SIZE BATHTUB with shower facility.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 118

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
4.16
1.
NOISE CONTROL and isolation is extremely important. When possible, plumbing shall
not be located in walls adjoining other bedrooms.
2.
PLUMBING FIXTURES and accessories shall be heavy-duty dormitory-type products.
3.
FINISHES shall be durable, washable, and sealed for moisture resistance. Finishes such
as floor and wall tile shall be the same as those for residential type bathrooms.
4.
VENTILATION Provide mechanical ventilation.
5.
SIZE One 3.8 SM bathroom per Marine and TDY bedroom.
6.
HARDWARE Privacy locks.
Laundry
4.16.1 FUNCTION All laundry activities.
4.16.2 OCCUPANCY One or two persons.
4.16.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to or near Linen Storage, Staff Quarters, Outdoor Service Area, and
Maintenance Storage.
4.16.4 MILLWORK/SPECIALTIES/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
1.
COMMERCIAL WASHER AND DRYER APPLIANCES (TWO EACH).
2.
WALL AND BASE CABINETS
3.
RACKS AND/OR HANGING RODS (based on 3 uniforms per Marine).
4.
UTILITY SINK.
4.17
1.
NOISE CONTROL and isolation is extremely important. The Laundry shall not share a
wall with a bedroom.
2.
NATURAL DAYLIGHT shall be provided.
3.
FINISHES shall be durable, washable, and resistant to moisture.
4.
VENTILATION Provide mechanical ventilation..
Linen Storage
4.17.1 FUNCTION A closet (walk-in when possible) for temporary storage of linens and laundry.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 119

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3

4.17.3 RELATIONSHIP Immediately adjacent to the Laundry.
4.17.4 MILLWORK/SPECIALTIES
1.
SHELVING One 381 mm x 457 mm x 610 mm shelf cubicle per Marine.
2.
HANGING ROD 250 mm of hanging rod per Marine.
4.17.5 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS Ideally, Linen Storage shall be configured as a vestibule of the
Laundry. Care shall be taken to secure the area from theft and/or unauthorized entry.
4.18
Maintenance Storage
4.48.1 FUNCTION Storage of janitorial equipment and supplies, yard equipment, recreation equipment
(where required) and similar items. Access from the exterior may be required at some Posts.
4.18.3 SPECIALTIES
1.
Shelves, hangers and mountings.
2.
Mop sink.

4.18.4.1 VENTILATION All maintenance storage areas shall be well ventilated. It is not required
that the room be incorporated into the building HVAC system.
4.48.4.2 HARDWARE Storeroom lock.
4.19
Storage, General
4.19.1 FUNCTION Storage of a variety of common use items such as chairs, tables, sports equipment
and other MSG-owned items.
4.19.3 RELATIONSHIP General Storage space shall be configured for efficient storage and access.
4.19.4 MILLWORK/SPECIALTIES Shelves, hangers and mountings.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 120

COMMENTARY
4.20
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
SECURITY EQUIPMENT WEAPONS STORAGE Provide lockable storage for Special

provisions for secure storage of weapons and other security equipment may be required
in Post-specific shall be required MSGQs.
2.
HARDWARE Storeroom lock.
Exercise Room
4.20.1 FUNCTION Space for physical exercise, including weight training, martial arts, and calisthenics.
4.20.2 OCCUPANCY Up to two-thirds of the Marines assigned to the Post plus a minimum number of
guests.
4.20.3 RELATIONSHIP Adjacent to the Exercise Bathroom and Outdoor Exercise area. Remote from the
Marine and TDY bedrooms.
1.
WEIGHT LIFTING AND OTHER EXERCISE EQUIPMENT.
2.
FLOOR AND WALL MATS.
3.
FULL HEIGHT WALL MIRRORS
4.21
1.
NOISE CONTROL and isolation is extremely important. This space shall be separate and
well isolated from the bedroom area. Wall, ceiling, floor, and door construction shall
respond to this necessity. The exercise room shall never be located above the bedrooms.
2.
CONSTRUCTION shall permit heavy exercise equipment to be bolted to walls and floors.
3.
FINISHES shall be durable and easily cleaned. Rubber athletic flooring shall be used.
4.
HARDWARE Classroom lock interior door.
5.
LOCATION At Posts where the MSGQ Exercise room may be used by other Embassy
staff, location should take in consideration easy access to visitors.
Lounge/Service-Staff Quarters
4.21.1 FUNCTION The main room functions as a day room for staff and/or drivers of MSG Detachments
where there are no live-in staff. When the MSGQ has live-in staff, the main room functions as a
small efficiency apartment. A separate entrance shall be located directly into the space.
4.21.2 OCCUPANCY Up to two persons (staff and spouse).
421.2
RELATIONSHIP Within the MSGQ compound. Readily accessible to the Kitchen. Near Laundry.
421.4
FURNISHINGS

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 121

COMMENTARY
421.5
421.6
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
1.
ONE FULL SIZE BED.
2.
3.
WRITING DESK WITH CHAIR computer/internet service shall be located at the desk.
4.
UPHOLSTERED SOFA AND/OR CHAIRS.
5.
CHEST OF DRAWERS.
6.
FULL LENGTH MIRROR.
7.
8.
9.
SMALL TABLE WITH FOUR CHAIRS
FIXTURES/SPECIALTIES/SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
1.
LAVATORY.
2.
WATER CLOSET.
3.
FULL SIZE BATHTUB with shower facility.
4.
STORAGE CLOSET with hanging rod/
5.
ROBE/TOWEL HOOK on back of the door.
6.
RANGE/OVEN WITH VENT HOOD.
7.
REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER.
8.
SINK.
1.
REQUIREMENTS for staff vary widely between Posts. At some Posts, only rough-in
connections to kitchen facilities within the space shall be provided. . This program will be
supplemented with more Post-specific information.
2.
NOISE CONTROL This space shall be acoustically isolated from the living and sleeping
areas of the MSGQ.
3.
4.
HARDWARE Interior door leading into the residence from the quarters:Entrance lock.
ACCESS A separate exterior entrance shall be provided. Careful attention shall be given
to preventing unauthorized access to the MSGQ compound through the staff entrance(s).

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 122

COMMENTARY
4.23
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Storage, Personal Effects

4.23.1 FUNCTION Storage of a variety of personal items such as luggage, footlockers, shipping boxes,
etc. and other MSG personally-owned items.
4.23.3 RELATIONSHIP Personal Effects Storage space shall be configured for efficient storage and
access.
4.23.4 MILLWORK/SPECIALTIES Shelves, hangers, closets, and mountings as required.
1.
HARDWARE lockable.

1.
4.24
HARDWARE
Storeroom lock.
Mechanical Room
4.24.1 FUNCTION Equipment room for HVAC, plumbing and electrical gear.
4.24.3 RELATIONSHIP Remote from the Marine and Guest bedrooms. Mechanical Room shall be
located to facilitate access for servicing and replacing equipment.
4.244.4 SPECIAL EQUIPMENT Central HVAC and electrical equipment. Chem/BIO or other Post-specific
equipment may be required.
4.25
1.
NOISE CONTROL and isolation is extremely important. Every effort shall be made to
prevent mechanical noise from reaching the bedroom area.
2.
HARDWARE Storeroom lock.
3.
CLEARANCES Provide sufficient clearances around equipment to allow service and to

allow moving equipment into and out of the room for replacement without significant
difficulty.
Telecommunications Locations
CABLE TV
ENTRY
LIVING/MEETING RM.
RECREATION ROOM
COMPUTER/INTERNET
TELEPHONE
X
X
X
X
X

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 123

COMMENTARY
DINING ROOM
BAR
KITCHEN
LAUNDRY
EXERCISE ROOM
LOUNGE/STAFF QTRS.
BEDROOMS
TDY BEDROOMS
MECHANICAL ROOM
TERRACE (EXTERIOR)
4.26
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Finishes Legend
ENTRY
LIVING/MEETING
ROOM
LIVING/MEETING
STORAGE
RECREATION ROOM
DINING ROOM
BAR
BAR STORAGE
GUEST BATHROOM
KITCHEN/PANTRY/
FOOD STORAGE
FLOOR
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Carpet
BASE
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Wood
WALLS
Painted GWB
CEILING
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Carpet
Wood
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
VCT
Ceramic Tile
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Vinyl
Ceramic Tile
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic Tile
VCT
Vinyl
Painted GWB
Glazed Wall Tile
(2000mm wainscot at
fixture wall)/ Painted
GWB
Glazed Wall Tile
(2000mm wainscot at
fixture wall/ Painted
GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
LAUNDRY/LINEN
STORAGE
STORAGE,
MAINTENANCE
STORAGE, GENERAL
EXERCISE ROOM
EXERCISE BATHROOM
VCT
Vinyl
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
VCT
Rubber Flooring
Ceramic Tile
Vinyl
Vinyl
Ceramic Tile
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
LOUNGE/STAFF QTRS.
BEDROOMS
BATHROOMS
Carpet
Carpet
Ceramic Tile
Wood
Wood
Ceramic Tile
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Glazed Wall Tile
(2000mm wainscot at
fixture wall)/
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Glazed Wall Tile

Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 124

COMMENTARY
MECHANICAL
CORRIDORS
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
Concrete
Main public level:
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
Private levels:
Carpet
Stone or
Ceramic Tile
- and Wood
(2000mm wainscot at
fixture wall)/ Painted
GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Painted GWB
Interior Notes:
1. All exterior windows shall have dual shade rollers consisting of a room darkening blackout shade
and solar shade, except for the kitchen, pantry/food storage, storage rooms, laundry/linen rooms,
and mechanical room where only a single roller solar shade is required. All window treatments
shall be consistent with those used for the NOB.
4.27
Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer (ISMT)

If included in the MSGQ space program, see Section
19.8 for requirements.
END OF SECTION 9.5

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 125

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SECTION R303
LIGHT, VENTILATION, AND HEATING
R303.8 Indoor Air: Humidification is not required in residences.
SECTION R310
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENINGS
R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue required:
The code requires that emergency escape and rescue openings be provided in basements and every sleeping room.
However, for security purposes, windows should, at the very least, be secured in such a manner that an intruder is
forced to break the glass in order to gain entry. Where the threat of forced entry and the breaking of windows is
commonplace and where other acceptable alternatives, i.e., shutters, bars, etc. are not in place, measures such as the
installation of grilles are recommended. Since the presence of grilles over bedroom windows intended for emergency
escape and rescue is a conflict with life safety objectives of the International Residential Code, alternative measures,
such as those permitted by the exceptions of R310.1, may be applicable. Exception 1 is intended to exempt basements
that are used only to house mechanical equipment and do not exceed a total floor area of 18.58 m2 (200 sf). Exception
2 is intended to exempt detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple-single family dwellings less than three
stories in height that are on an embassy compound from having emergency escape and rescue openings. This
exception does not apply to detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple-single family dwellings less than
three stories in height that are off-compound. Such facilities are required to have emergency escape and rescue
openings.
R310.4 Bars, grilles, covers, and screens:
The requirements for grilles in new structures will be identified by OBO on a project-specific basis. In existing structures,
grilles deemed adequate by the RSO for local conditions may be considered for accessible window openings. Posts
should note that grilles generally do not have the benefit of certification by U.S. Federal, State or local authorities.
SECTION R311
MEANS OF EGRESS
R311.4.2 Door type and size:
Exterior doors come in a variety of styles. All exterior doors, at a minimum, should be side-hinged and of a substantial
nature, i.e., solid core, metal hollow core, etc. For off-compound housing, Groups One through Four, exterior doors of
substantial construction door shall be provided at each entrance. Outward swinging doors shall have the external door
hinges made non-removable. For on-compound housing, there are two requirements for exterior door construction: 1)
hollow metal or solid core wood doors and 2) steel plate or heavy-gauge hollow metal doors. The criteria that apply for
a particular housing project will be based on project specific requirements.
R311.4.4 Locks and latches:
For on-compound housing, standard security hardware sets are not required on exterior doors. Good quality hardware
should be provided for all exterior doors. For exterior egress doors, the code requires that the doors be readily
openable from the side from which egress is to be made without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. Where
JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 126

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
security and life safety objectives conflict, alternative measures, such as those permitted by Exception 1, may be
applicable. Exception 1 permits a double cylinder to be used if the deadbolt is within 1000 mm of a door window or
glass sidelight. This exception applies to on-compound housing including staff housing (SDA). The basis for this
exception is that the occupants of the residence are familiar with the operation of the locking device on the egress door.
It is also important to note that this exception does not apply to egress door serving representational housing as
described in the International Building Code Section 428. For off-compound housing, a deadbolt lock is required at all
entrances to the residence. As described in on-compound housing Exception 1, a double cylinder is required for offcompound housing if the deadbolt is within 1000 mm of a door window or glass sidelight. This exception applies for offcompound housing, Groups One through Four.
SECTION R314
FOAM PLASTIC
R314.1 Foam plastic:
This section is intended to govern the materials, design, application, construction, and installation of foam plastics in all
detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple-single family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in
height. The International Residential Code permits the use of foam plastics to be used as interior finish where approved
by Section R314.6. Exception 1 has been added to provide additional restrictions on the use of foam plastics. This
exception prohibits the use of foam plastics as an interior finish and only permits the use of foam plastic thermal
insulation meeting specific criteria only when completely covered by a minimum of thickness of gypsum wallboard or the
equivalent.
SECTION R315
FLAME SPREAD AND SMOKE DENSITY
R315.1 Flame spread and smoke density:
This section provides the minimum flame spread and smoke density classifications permitted in detached one- and twofamily dwellings and multiple-single family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in height. Exception 2 has
been added to provide additional restrictions on flame spread and smoke density in these facilities. This exception
intends that all interior wall and ceiling finishes comply with the maximum flame spread classifications based on
occupancy in accordance with the International Building Code Table 803.5.
SECTION R325
CARPETING
R325 Carpeting:
This section provides the minimum requirements for carpeting in detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiplesingle family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in height. All carpets, carpet tile, and rugs used for floor
covering shall comply with NFPA Class I-ASTM E-648 (direct glue), NFPA 253, Standard Method of Test for Critical
Radiant Flux for Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source, Class I, 0.45 watts/cm2 or greater.
This test method is designed to provide a basis for estimating one aspect of the fire exposure behavior of a floor
covering system installed in a building corridor. Where padding is used, it is the intent of this section to have the
carpet and padding successfully tested as a unit.

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 127

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
SECTION R326
DRAPERIES AND WINDOW TREATMENTS
R326 Draperies and Window Treatments:

This section provides the minimum requirements for draperies and window treatments in detached one- and two-family
dwellings and multiple-single family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in height. In general, all draperies
and window treatments shall be inherently flameproof. In limited enclosed representational areas, a flameproof finish
may be applied upon pending the approval by OBO. All draperies and window treatments shall meet the requirements
of NFPA 701, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films. This test includes two
methods, one applies to single-layer fabrics and to multilayer curtain and drapery assemblies and other window
treatments in which the layers are fastened together by sewing or other means, and the other applies to vinyl-coated
fabric blackout linings.
SECTION R327
FURNITURE
R327 Furniture:
This section provides the minimum requirements for furniture in detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiplesingle family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in height. All upholstered furniture is required to bear
the Upholstered Furniture Action Council (UFAC) label for cigarette ignition resistance. The UFAC was founded in
1978 to make upholstered furniture more resistant to ignition from smoldering cigarettes, which are the leading cause
of upholstery fires in the home. Household fires from smoldering ignition have been reduced substantially since its
inception. In addition, where furniture purchased in the US is used, it is required to meet the requirements of the
California Bureau of Home Furnishings Bulletin No. 117-75 as referenced in NFPA Standard 260. When non US
furniture is used, the furniture must be tested with a standard compatible to the US standard. Any existing furniture that
is re-upholstered is required to meet the requirements of NFPA 260, Standard Methods of Tests and Classification
System for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Upholstered Furniture. Additional requirements are also
identified for reupholstered existing furniture.
SECTION R328
WALL COVERINGS
R328 Wall coverings:
This section provides the minimum requirements for wall coverings in detached one- and two-family dwellings and
multiple-single family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in height. When wall coverings, including textile
wall coverings, are used they shall meet a Class I flame spread and be protected by a sprinkler system. If this cannot
be achieved, the covering must meet the acceptance criteria established in the International Building Code. This applies
to wall coverings having napped, tufted, looped, non-woven, or similar surfaces:
SECTION R329
WALLS AND CEILINGS
R329 Walls and ceilings:

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 128

COMMENTARY
BUILDING PLANNING
Chapter 3
This section provides the minimum requirements for walls and ceilings in detached one- and two-family dwellings and
multiple-single family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in height. The maximum flame spread rating for
walls and ceilings shall not exceed 25 (Class I) in exit corridors and stairs and shall not exceed 75 (Class II) in all other
areas.
SECTION R330
MATTRESSES AND BEDDING
R330 Mattress and Bedding:
This section provides the minimum requirements for mattresses and bedding in detached one- and two-family dwellings
and multiple-single family homes (townhouses) that are three stories or less in height. The intent of this section is to
ensure that mattresses and bedding materials comply with flammability standards of 16 CFR 1632 (DOC FF 4-72).
This standard prescribes a test to determine the ignition resistance of a mattress or a mattress pad when exposed to
a lighted cigarette. The method measures the ignition resistance of a mattress or mattress pad by exposing the
surface to lighted cigarettes in a draft-protected environment. The surfaces to be tested include smooth, tape edge,
and quilted or tufted locations, if they exist on the mattress or mattress pad surface. A two-sheet test is also
conducted on similar surface locations. In the latter test, the burning cigarettes are placed between the sheets. When
testing the mattress or mattress pad surface, individual cigarette test locations pass the test if the char length is not
more than 5.1 cm (2 in) in any direction from the nearest point of the cigarette.
END OF CHAPTER IRC-3 COMMENTARY

JANUARY 2012
IRC 3 - 129

COMMENTARY
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
Chapter 15
CHAPTER 15
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
SECTION M1507
MECHANICAL VENTILATION
1507.4 Kitchen Ventilation.

The equipment installed within the kitchen is not commercial grade equipment but is typically much larger than that
found in a typical residential kitchen and the exhaust rates should reflect the equipment installed.
END OF CHAPTER IRC-15 COMMENTARY

JANUARY 2012
IRC 15 - 1

OBO Residential Code 2012

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

OBO Residential Code 2012

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

2012

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

OBO Supplement to 2009 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE (IRC)

SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

PART III BUILDING PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES

PART IV ENERGY CONSERVATION

GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

CHIMNEYS AND VENTS

SPECIAL FUEL-BURNING EQUIPMENT

BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS

SPECIAL PIPING AND STORAGE SYSTEMS

PART VI FUEL GAS

PART VII PLUMBING

GENERAL PLUMBING REQUIREMENTS

WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

PART VIII ELECTRICAL

BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS

POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION

DEVICES AND LUMINARIES

CLASS 2 REMOTE-CONTROL, SIGNALING AND POWER-LIMITED CIRCUITS

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

GRAY WATER RECYCLING SYSTEMS

SIZING OF WATER PIPING SYSTEM

PART IX COMMENTARY TO OBO-IRC ICS

BUILDING PLANNING - COMMENTARY

EXHAUST SYSTEMS - COMMENTARY

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

Replace Section R101.2 with the following:

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

R101.6 Marginal Markings Indicating Updates. Refer to OBO-ICS IBC Chapter 1.

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

END OF CHAPTER 2 AMENDMENTS

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

Replace Subsection R301.2.2.1.1 with the following:

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

END OF CHAPTER IRC-3 AMENDMENTS

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

END OF CHAPTER IRC-11 AMENDMENTS

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

END OF CHAPTER IRC-13 AMENDMENTS

OBO-ICS 2012 OBO International Code Supplement

2012 OBO RESIDENTIAL CODE

HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT

HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT

END OF CHAPTER IRC-1 AMENDMENTS