The basic structure for a new house plan is a 32ft x 28ft box. The 28ft side is divided into three bays; 8ft, 12ft and 8ft. The 32ft side is split into four even bays; 8ft each. This represents a grid plan with 20 columns, 14 on the perimeter and 6 interior columns. Of course, the desire for at least one room with a large open space, free of columns, means that I would like to remove two of the 6 interior columns.
Prior to any detailed engineering, how can someone determine if these columns can be deleted without causing major design/construction/cost problems? As an engineer, I understand that pretty much *anything* is possible, IF you are willing to spend enough time and money. I want to determine if removing these two columns can be done practically, without turning the house into a structural engineering case study, or without major cost increases. Can this be determined while still at the ‘back of a napkin’ phase of planning?
