What is the allowable area for a one-story Type IIB constructed motel equipped with an NFPA 13R sprinkler system and having 25 percent of its perimeter facing a public way or open space?

• A. 16,000 sq. ft.
• B. 24,000 sq. ft.
• C. 64,000 sq. ft.
• D. 96,000 sq. ft.

Answer: (A)

To determine the allowable area for a one-story Type IIB constructed motel with an NFPA 13R sprinkler system and given that 25 percent of its perimeter faces a public way or open space, it's essential to consider several key factors in the North Carolina Building Code.

Type IIB construction is a noncombustible building type that offers certain benefits regarding allowable area calculations. The NFPA 13R sprinkler system enhances fire safety, which in turn allows for an increase in the permissible area. The fact that a quarter of the building's perimeter is oriented towards a public way or open space is significant because it plays a role in determining the area increase allowances.

For one-story buildings under these conditions, the code typically allows a certain base area, which is then modified by the use of fire protection systems like the NFPA 13R sprinklers and other site-specific factors such as proximity to open space.

In this scenario, the allowable area is calculated based on the occupancy type and the construction type. For a one-story motel constructed with Type IIB construction and equipped with the specified sprinkler system, the base allowable area can be significantly increased. However, given the parameters described, the code dictates that the resulting area concludes at a maximum of 16