Commercial architecture combines functionality and style for business structures. Architects meet with clients to define needs, visit sites, create designs, and prepare project plans.
Commercial architecture is the design of buildings and structures for business use. This genre of architecture focuses on combining functionality and style to meet the needs of a wide variety of business types. The impact of commercial architecture can be seen throughout the major city centres, where almost all buildings are commercial. Architecture is the design and construction of structures designed to provide protection from the elements. The simplest structural requirements are easily met when building a shelter, but an architect’s job is to combine good design elements into a building that meets current and future needs.
The field of commercial architecture has been active since the inception of architecture and some of these structures are still available today. Roman and Greek architecture included the building of elaborate structures, complete with courtyards and meeting rooms. Today most architects work in commercial architecture. Projects have four phases: obtain customer requirements, determine site location, create a design proposal, and submit project plan and costing.
The first part of the process is meeting the customer and defining their needs. The more specific and detailed the requirements, the more precise the proposal can be. Ask to meet with people at different levels of the organization to understand how they do business, the practical requirements and public image of the company. Look at the corporate image, publications and marketing materials provided by the company to get an idea of its design tastes and preferences.
Work with the client to visit the proposed site location or discuss space requirements for the required building type. Look at other buildings in the area to get a sense of local style, height, physical presence and use of color. For example, a building designed for a location with a large number of office towers will be very different from one designed for a park-like environment.
Create concept drawings and drawings for the client to review. Focus on the building exterior, main floor and office workspaces. Many commercial architecture firms employ model makers to create a scale model of the design. This process helps the customer visualize the final product.
Once the conceptual design is approved, the technical and cost aspect of the commercial architecture begins. Prepare detailed project plans, time, cost and decision points. This project plan forms the basis of the offer and must be approved by the client before any work can begin.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
