[Alberg30] Raised Main Cabin Bunks

[Roger L. Kingsland]

Since we all are probably all frustrated navel architects, I thought I would
float what might be a stupid idea out to everyone for feedback.

I have been perplexed as to why the bunks in the main cabin on A30s are so
low (at least those in #148).  They are several inches below accepted
ergonomic standards and it would seem that raising them would allow for more
storage underneath.  Also, the bunks are too low to be able to see out
(pilot house style) those wounderful "picture windows" while seated.

I had a few beers on board yesterday (a good reason to suspect the validy of
the idea) and determined the optimum seat height to see out of the main
cabin ports is just a few inches lower than the galley counter and table
height (they are about the same height).  This height would allow the
opportunity to install a two person fore n' aft, "booth" on the starboard
side (I have a refrigerator with the door facing forward on port so I can
only raise that bunk about 6" before the door bumps into the cushion).

The middle third of the current starboard bunk area could be a table (that
would mount directly below the locker door), and the end thirds could be
seats.  Each would align with one of the three storage doors above. The
table could drop down to form a high, single bunk at seat level.  The users
feet (under the table) would rest on the on the current bunk base so there
could be room for a drawer under.  The advantages are I could have a sit
down nav station, great dining for two (I might be able to devise pull out
seats for two more) and a "base cabinet" under each seat (gobs more
storage).

I could probably put a tank (beer keg) or tool storage under the aft seat
with microwave or cooler above it.  With optimum seat height a few inches
below galley counter height, the back rest could fold down to form extra
counter space (to replace the fold up counter there now).  Since the forward
seat is partially behind the starboard side fore/aft bulkhead, I might want
to access that storage from the seat (or install a tank).

One downside is the bunk heights will differ by about a foot which should
not matter so much if I can figure out how to seat 4 at the table for meals,
games etc. I might even mock up the solution in plywood to see how it feels.

For anyone interested, what do you think?

Roger Kingsland

Mahina Manu, A30 #148
On the hard at N40-29.284, W79-53.854

(412) 252-1500 x101 office
(412) 779-5101 cell
rkingsland101 at ksba.com


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