Commercial architecture firms specialize in designing structures that provide housing and services to the public, from hotels and shopping malls to corporate centers and office buildings.
When selecting a commercial architecture firm for your project, it is crucial that you inquire about their references. This will give an accurate indication of their work ethic and communication style.
1. Experience
Commercial architecture should have the ability to recognize what type of business model works best for each client and design accordingly. This may involve using certain technologies or adopting innovative design processes. When it comes to commercial projects, many types of buildings can be designed and constructed including healthcare buildings, retail structures and even industrial facilities.
Retail design is currently experiencing dramatic transformation. Storefronts are being expanded to provide more space for customer engagement and signage, while traditional mall layout is being combined with other development formats like office and residential to form what has come to be known as lifestyle designs based on convenience being key.
Recent trends include moving away from power centers, malls and neighborhood centers and towards lifestyle formats for more modern city-like projects that provide shopping and dining options to attract customers to an area and provide real experiences, according to Cooper Carry in Atlanta.
2. Knowledge
Commercial architecture differs from residential work because it involves accommodating each client’s specific facilities and business operations. For example, companies producing fresh beverages might need their facility design to include temperature-controlled storage areas, spacious loading bays to make deliveries more easily accessible, and ensure safe transport conditions.
The top commercial architecture firms understand how to design structures that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, as well as understanding how specific design choices impact sales and customers’ perceptions of businesses.
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3. Communication
Successful commercial architecture firms require clear communication with their clients in order to avoid miscommunication and ensure projects are completed on schedule. When interviewing potential architects, make sure you inquire about their communication abilities and client management techniques; you could even check references as to what your experience working together was like.
An architect should provide you with a timeline outlining how long the design and construction process will take, which can help you plan both budget and schedule effectively. Furthermore, it is prudent to inquire as early as possible regarding payment terms so as to be prepared in case there are delays with payments.
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4. Collaboration
Commercial architecture firms require exceptional collaboration skills to be successful. They must work effectively with the client, design team and construction company in developing and realizing a vision and solving any potential problems swiftly and efficiently. A great commercial architecture firm will collaborate closely with all parties involved to craft spaces that are both functional and visually stunning.
When selecting a commercial architecture firm, always ask for references. This is an effective way of discovering how they interact with their clients. Be sure that these references come from previous projects and include specific details about what was accomplished for the job at hand. You should also examine testimonials as they should be detailed and informative as they come from those who have experienced their services first-hand.
One way of assessing a commercial architecture firm’s ability to collaborate is by viewing their portfolio. A good architecture firm will have projects from all different environments, showing their flexibility and meeting client needs.
5. Sustainability
Successful commercial architecture firm must have the capability of designing buildings that are sustainable and have minimal impacts on the environment, in addition to having an in-depth knowledge of building codes and regulations – skills which enable them to construct beautiful yet functional commercial properties.
Architects need a keen knowledge of the business side of commercial building, such as selecting suitable locations for projects and producing accurate cost estimates. Furthermore, they should communicate clearly and concisely with both clients and team members throughout each stage.
As retail shopping centers develop, architects are working to design spaces that will entice consumers back again and again. Trends include open-air spaces and designs that reflect local culture; for example, one lifestyle project in Miami uses fountains and benches to recreate old Miami streetscape. Another trend involves malls featuring flexible tenant space arrangements which can adapt quickly to changing market conditions, guaranteeing their owners profits from any changes that arise in tenant requirements.
