B1-31 / CEFR B1 / EPISODE 31

Apartment Renovation

Considering alternatives before a major renovation

SceneFrank is showing a designer around his apartment. A tall bookcase stands in front of the living-room window.

Frank discussing furniture arrangements at home.
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STORY English with optional Japanese translations

Narrator

Frank is showing a designer around his apartment. A tall bookcase stands in front of the living-room window.

フランクはデザイナーにアパートを案内している。居間の窓の前には、背の高い本棚が置かれている。

Frank01

This room's dark. Would removing that wall help?

この部屋は暗いんです。あの壁を取り払えば明るくなりますか?

Designer02

It could let in more light from the next room.

隣の部屋から、もっと光が入るようになる可能性はあります。

Frank03

How much would that cost?

費用はどれくらいですか?

Designer04

Roughly ten thousand dollars, including repairs to the floor and ceiling.

床と天井の補修も含めて、およそ1万ドルです。

Frank05

Is there a cheaper way?

もっと費用を抑える方法はありますか?

Designer06

First, I'd move that bookcase. It's blocking half the window.

まず、あの本棚を動かしてみます。窓の半分をふさいでいますから。

Frank07

I put it there to keep my books near my desk.

本を机の近くに置きたくて、そこに置いたんです。

Designer08

It could go against the opposite wall.

向かいの壁につけて置けそうですよ。

Frank09

Would there still be room for my desk?

それでも机を置く場所はありますか?

Designer10

Yes. I've measured both. They'd fit side by side.

はい。両方測りました。並べて置けます。

Frank11

Then I'll start by taking the books off the shelves.

では、まず棚から本を下ろします。

Designer12

Let's try that arrangement before planning any construction.

工事を計画する前に、まずその配置を試しましょう。

Frank13

I nearly spent ten thousand dollars when I might only need to move my books.

本を動かすだけで済むかもしれないのに、1万ドル払うところでした。