We are requesting clarification on the application of ASHRAE 62.1-2004 for a mid-rise residential building. In some instances, a portion of the kitchen area within the residential units is further than 25 ft away from an operable window. However these spaces are also permanently unobstructed to an adjoining naturally ventilated space and have a free area of not less than 8% of the area of the interior room nor less than 25 sq.ft. ( 2.3 sq.m.). Our question is, can a space be considered naturally ventilated if it falls outside of 25 ft from an operable window but is permanently unobstructed to an adjoining naturally ventilated space with free area of not less than 8% of the area of the interior room nor less than 25 sq.ft. ( 2.3 sq.m.) and the operable window area is at least 4% of the total net occupiable floor area for both spaces?
The answer to this question is no. ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004 has clearly defined naturally ventilated spaces as those within 25 ft of an operable window, the area of which is a minimum of 4% of the net occupiable floor area. In the situation described above, portions of the kitchen fall outside of 25 ft boundary from an operable window.