An architect who designs a commercial property is different than one who designs a residential property. The attention to detail is generally the same. But the scale is generally much larger with additional requirements. Since the commercial property will likely have more than a few people, there are prerequisites such as building codes, zoning, fire safety, and other requirements.
Commercial construction projects such as hospitals, officers, hotels, retail facilities, air and rail terminals, and sporting facilities need more attention on public safety than a residential project.
Designing a residence is for the needs of a small group of people. But a commercial project has a larger, more diverse population to consider. Therefore, it’s vital that developers find knowledgeable and experienced team members for commercial projects.
Important Considerations
An architect creates something that will last long after they retire. So long before the concrete begins pouring, the architect must make many decisions on the property during the design.
• How big? Size always matters, so it’s important to determine the structure’s parameters. The height, dimension, and various spans will tell the requirements for the structure as well as what building materials to use.
• For today and tomorrow. During the design phase, careful consideration of building materials can make the building stronger, more resilient, as well as reduce long-term operational and maintenance costs for the owner.
• Budgeting a little extra. It’s not unusual for a construction project to experience some “surprises.” Although developers and contractors prepare detailed budgets before they begin construction, it’s a good idea to include an additional 5% to 10% in the budget to cover unexpected costs during construction.
• Arrange financing and permits early—costly delays can be avoided if the contractor can get permits and funding at the beginning of the construction phase.
• Establish communication ahead of time—one of the biggest impacts on the success of a building project is communication between everyone involved. Before construction starts, all involved parties should become acquainted and establish good communication with the entire team.
• Consider future maintenance—constructing low maintenance, durable commercial buildings can resist damage, last longer, and require less maintenance. This makes long-term ownership less expensive for the owner.
• Energy-efficient design—this is another factor that can control long-term expenses for an owner and improve business profitability. Additionally, it’s particularly important in Maui, and the state of Hawaii, to design with an eye toward energy efficiency. Because Maui is so vulnerable to the effects of climate change, Hawaii’s Clean Energy Initiative seeks to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels by 2045. The goal is to shift the entire state to use more clean energy instead of pricey fossil fuels that are currently imported from the mainland. Designing a building with this in mind goes a long way in the eventual move to clean, locally generated energy that is also less expensive to operate.
• Disaster resistance—this is particularly important for a place like Maui, which has the potential for a range of natural disasters. Hurricanes, tsunamis, flooding, and even earthquakes can damage a building and put occupants in danger. Incorporating disaster-resistant designs into commercial structures can save building owners on expensive repairs or rebuilding following a disaster. Resilient design can also lower the owner’s annual insurance costs as well as increase the property’s value.
A commercial project has more moving parts than a residential construction project. Therefore, it requires an architect as well as an entire team to consider the building’s long-term impact not only in the area where it is built but also in the environment in which it resides, especially in Maui.
Commercial Property? Call Pro Draft For All Of Your Architectural Design Needs
A commercial construction project is a big undertaking in Maui. Let Pro Draft help with architecture, drawings, drafting, blueprints, permits, and everything else you need to have a successful project. We’re happy to answer all of your questions before construction starts and throughout the process. We’ll work to make sure your project is done to your specifications and your needs.
Call Pro Draft today at (808) 579-9050 or 1-800-499-4699 from the Mainland
