PA NCARB exam question - elevator for residents

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santorinisn

September 02, 2025 04:10

Can someone explain this question? Why is B the correct answer while the corridor width is only 3'5", and why is A not? Thank you! 

"An owner wants to install an elevator for resident access in an existing three-story building.
Which location is most appropriate? " 

The explanation for B: There is sufficient space to place the elevator shaft inside the building, and the elevator entry will be visible from the main entrance.

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  abruno168 September 02, 2025 13:21

  

  B is the answer is due to the consideration of who is going to be using this elevator. The question lays out that it's going to be for 'resident access' within the building. Consider where the residential units are in proximity to the three locations. C is out due to the configuration conflicting with the stairs, and A is on the exterior with access towards the commercial units. The best configuration to serve the residential units would be option B that is within the building and serves as a 'central' point for these units to access.

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  santorinisn September 02, 2025 16:31

  Thank you for your response! I have a couple of additional questions:

  1. Access at A – It seems like A is accessed from the right edge, which can be seen on the second-floor plan where there is a corridor connecting to the interior. In this case, A will not have access to the commercial area?

  2. Corridor Width – What is the minimum required width for this corridor, and where can I find the reference for this requirement? The narrowest dimension I see is 3'-5"; would this width be acceptable?

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  abruno168 September 02, 2025 16:43

  1. Option A doesn't have direct access to the commercial spaces. It's assumed accessible from the outside and utilized only via the exterior. 

  2. Minimum widths would be found in the building code:

  

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  santorinisn September 02, 2025 18:38

  Thank you for the information. It really helps! 

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