The Main Steps to Designing a Commercial Building

As of now in the year 2023, there have been a total of 63,053 newly constructed commercial buildings. Are you looking to design your own commercial building?

Designing a commercial building is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right guidance, you can create an amazing space for yourself or others to do business in. We have put together a step-by-step guide of the main steps you must take when designing commercial properties.

This guide provides helpful advice on what to consider when planning your building design. We go over all the steps you’ll need to get started. From planning through to completion, we’ve got you covered.

Discover what it takes to design business buildings. Read on for our best ideas.

1. Determine Building Use

The first step to designing a commercial building is establishing its purpose. What kind of businesses or activities will be conducted in the space? This decision informs everything else you do throughout the design process, from zoning regulations to energy efficiency considerations.

If you’re designing the building with the sole purpose of renting it out. You’ll have to do some research for a gap in the market and who you’re designing the building for. Understanding what your target market needs is essential. Conducting research can help you determine if there’s a need for what you’re offering.

2. Acquire Property

Once you know the use for your commercial building, it’s time to find a suitable piece of land on which to build it.

This requires an understanding of zoning regulations and local ordinances that may affect the structure you design. Local governments also have specific requirements when it comes to size, height, setbacks, and other features. Ensure you understand all of these requirements before you purchase the property.

3. Design the Building

The design process is a critical step in commercial building construction. It involves conceptualizing, sketching, and creating drawings that will be used for the actual construction phase.

You’ll want to work with an experienced architect or designer who can bring your vision to life while ensuring it’s structurally sound and meets all applicable codes. Your architect will also need to consider things like energy efficiency, sustainability, and other green building standards.

If you’ve already got a list of potential clients wanting to move in, then you’ll need to create floor plans based on their needs.

4. Obtain the Necessary Permits

Before you can start construction, all commercial projects will need a permit. You’ll need to get the necessary permissions from your local government.

Depending on the size and scope of your construction project, you might need to apply for multiple permits. You’ll also need to submit plans that comply with local building codes and zoning regulations. Some projects may even require a special use permit or environmental review process.

5. Choose a Contractor

Your next step is selecting the right contractor for your commercial building project. You’ll want someone who’s experienced in constructing commercial buildings and has a good reputation, such as Butler Buildings, for delivering quality work on time and within budget.

You should also get several bids and review the contractor’s references before you make your decision. It’s important to take your time with this process, as selecting the right contractor is key to completing the construction on time and on budget.

6. Choose High-Quality Supplies

For your construction project, you’ll need to select high-quality supplies that meet all the necessary standards. This includes everything from building materials like wood, concrete, steel, and brick to plumbing fixtures and electrical wiring.

You should also consider making sure any appliances and utilities are energy efficient or meet the latest energy codes. This can help you save money in the long run.

7. Monitor Construction Progress

Once your construction project gets underway, it’s important to keep an eye on the progress and make sure everything is going as planned. You should regularly inspect the building site for any safety hazards or potential issues that need to be addressed quickly and efficiently.

It’s also important to have regular communications with the contractor and their team so that any changes or issues can be discussed and resolved as quickly as possible.

8. Finalize the Building Project

Once your commercial building is complete, you’ll need to make sure it meets all necessary codes and standards before it can be opened for use.

This includes making sure all necessary permits have been obtained, that the building is safe and secure, and that it meets all local regulations. You may have to organise inspectors to visit the premises so plan in time for these inspections.

9. Conduct Final Walkthroughs for Quality Assurance

Before officially opening the building, you should do one final walkthrough with your contractor to make sure everything is in order. This will help you ensure that all of the work has been completed correctly and that any problems have been addressed.

If there are any problems, then these should be discussed with the contractor before signing off the project.

10. Celebrate Your Successful Design Completion

Finally, once your commercial building project is complete, you can celebrate the successful design and completion of your construction project.

Look forward to the future of your business in its new home!

Looking To Get Started With Your Commercial Building Design?

Congratulations on completing your commercial building design! Following our step-by-step guide you’ll be able to road map out your building from conception to completion.

For more inspirational articles about designing a commercial building or any other related topics, be sure to check out other articles on our blog!