Is Your House Good for Thunderstorm Viewing?

In our area we're experiencing a round of thunderstorms, which are supposed to continue for another few days.  Reactions to thunderstorms can vary widely from fear to awe with any number of feelings in between.  If you're like me, then you love thunderstorms.  The rumble of the thunder combined with the amazing light show brings a sense of wonder and awe.  They can be a nice change of pace (so long as you're safe).

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Depending on your house layout, it can sometimes be difficult to watch the light show outside.  You might have furniture in front of your window, so it's awkward to try and sit in a position that allows you to watch.  Or you might have small windows inconveniently placed making it difficult to view the storm comfortably.  Another obstacle is when your view is blocked by a neighboring building.  That can bring disappointment and ruin your excitement.

Today I'm going to describe what I think makes a house good for viewing thunderstorms.  First, you need to have large windows.

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Large windows are a must if you want to have a good, unobstructed viewing area to watch the thunderstorm.  You can arrange your furniture in just about any configuration and still be able to watch the lighting streak across the sky while you sit comfortably.  Wouldn't you love to have the view out of the windows in the picture above?

Second, you need a house with multiple levels.

The Winds Cottage

Being able to go up a level higher than the buildings around you helps give a better vantage point.  If your house is the same height as your neighbors, when the lightning flashes below their house then your view is gone and disappointment sets in.  In the picture above, if the second floor isn't high enough then you're able to go up another to get the view you desire.

Third, you need a safe place to watch the thunderstorm.

The Island Cottage

Ideally, having an interior observation loft will give you the height you desire and a 360 degree view of the storm. That would be a pretty awesome view!  If you don't have an observation loft, then go back to the first item on my list:  find a large, unobstructed window to watch the storm from.

Now, it's important to stay safe during thunderstorms.  The National Weather Service has issued a lot of info for Lightning Safety that you should review.  They have multiple links to various safety info, one of which is Tips for Safety with information about outdoor safety, indoor safety, and safety tips of what to do if you are stuck outside during a thunderstorm. For instance, don't watch a thunderstorm from your porch.  It might seem like an ideal place, especially if it's on an upper level.  But, the National Weather Service specifically says this is not a good idea.  Take their advice and stay safe!

If you're interested in designing or remodeling your home to facilitate a better view to watch storms from, let us help you create a design at www.mcleodarchitect.com.  Or view our architect designed house plans, including the Winds Cottage and Island Cottage pictured above, at www.southerncottages.com.