When you think about interior design, you must also think about workforce productivity. Work flow and positive spaces will have a significant impact on your team’s productivity. Interior designers will capture your business culture, people and function to develop spaces that energize.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of the commercial interior construction design process, as well as tips for creating a successful interior space. We’ll also highlight important considerations when designing a space for businesses and feature case studies of recent projects that illustrate best practices.

What is Interior Construction Design?

Interior construction design involves the process of creating exciting work spaces as well as managing the design and construction of interior spaces. This can include designing functional space layouts, workflow that is sensical  as well as the  selecting of materials and finishes including specifying electrical outlets and lighting.

The creation of human spaces for work may seem secondary however it should be considered paramount. Consider a space that you worked that drained your sole versus a space you were energetically charged. Interior design architects are trained and skilled at creating the latter by concepting, specifying and coordinating the installation of flooring, doors, windows, and other interior elements.

What Services Do Interior Designers Offer?

designers offer a range of services that can help clients create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Here are some of the key services that interior specialists offer:

• Design Conceptualization.
• Space Planning.
• Specifications and Finishes.
• Color Consultation.
• Selection of Artwork and Accessories.
• Custom Millwork and Cabinetry Design.
• Collaboration with Architects, Engineers, and Contractors.
• Project Management.
• Integration and Coordination of Services
• FF&E (Fixtures, Furniture, and Equipment)
• Data Infrastructure and Security Infrastructure
• Behind the scenes work

The Value of Working with an Interior Designer in a Commercial context

Working with a creative interior designer brings many benefits to interior construction projects. They play a critical role in the success of the project. Here are some of the key benefits that interior professionals bring to a commercial building:

Expertise in Interior Design

Interior designers have extensive knowledge and training in interior construction and can help clients create a vision for a commercial interior construction that meets the needs and preferences of clients. They bring a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to the table, incorporating natural elements, such as wood and stone, into their designs to create a unique and inviting space.

They will also have extensive knowledge of the market and industries, which contractor is reputable and how to make the most of any room.

Attention to Detail

an Interior designer is known for their due sense and attention to detail. They focus on every aspect of the design, from selecting the right flooring to ensuring that electrical outlets and lighting are in the right locations. This also helps the construction team in realizing the client’s intention.

Project Management software

an Interior designer play a critical role in project management. They work closely with key stakeholders, such as contractors, and project managers, to ensure that the build runs smoothly and that the interior construction job is completed on time and within budget. They use software to stay organized and manage timelines, resources, and budgets effectively.

Creativity and Innovation

an Interior designer bring creativity and innovation to every project. They use their expertise and knowledge of processes, technology and materials to create unique and innovative spaces that meet the needs and preferences of clients. They also use 3D renderings and other technologies to help clients visualize the final design and make informed decisions.

Integration of Various Components

Interior designers are skilled at integrating various components of interior design, including furniture, finishes, FF&E, data infrastructure, security infrastructure, and the structure of the rooms and the building itself. They collaborate with architects and other construction professionals to ensure that every aspect of the design is carefully considered and executed, resulting in a functional and aesthetically pleasing space that meets the needs of clients.

Cost Control

The interior designer also plays a key role in managing expenditure. They also help clients to make informed decisions about materials and finishes, balancing aesthetics with costs to provide a space that is both beautiful and functional.

The Projects Process

The design process in interior design involves several stages, from initial concept to final construction documentation. Here is a breakdown of the key stages

1. Conceptualization

The first stage of most projects is conceptualization. During this stage, the designer meets with the client to discuss the project’s goals, timeline, and costs. The designer will also gather information about the location and site context, such as the building’s structure, natural light, and views. Based on this information, the designer will create a preliminary design concept that meets the client’s needs and preferences.

2. Schematic Design

The next stage is schematic design. During this stage, the designer will refine the design concept, creating sketches and drawings that illustrate and support the overall design direction. The designer will also produce mood boards and material samples to help the client visualize the final design. The designer may also collaborate with other construction experts to ensure that the design is feasible and meets building codes and regulations.

3. Design Development

The design development stage involves further refining the design, taking into consideration feedback from the client and other stakeholders. The designer will produce, 3D renderings, and specifications that provide a clear picture of the final design. At some point during this stage, the designer will also finalize material selections, finishes, and fixtures as well as reflect on the cost of the project.

4. Construction Documentation

The final stage is construction documentation. The designer will produce detailed drawings, schedules, and specifications, using the latest drawing technology, that provide the necessary information for construction. The designer and contractor will also work with builders, and other professionals in the construction industry to ensure that the design is executed according to the design intent.

Key Considerations

Throughout the process, designers must consider and manage several key factors to ensure that the final design meets the needs and preferences of the client while also being functional and aesthetically pleasing. These factors include:

1. User needs and preferences: The design must meet the needs and preferences of the end-users.
2. Functionality: The design must be functional and practical, meeting the practical needs of the users.
3. Site context: The design must complement the surrounding environment, taking into consideration factors such as light, views, and the building’s structure.
4. Budget: The design must stay within the project’s budget, with expenditure managed carefully throughout projects
5. Timeline: The design must be completed within the project’s timeline, with effective project management and communication.

Potential concerns

1. Ignoring functionality: While it’s important to make a visually pleasing interior, it’s equally important to ensure that it meets the practical needs of the business or user. For example, a beautiful sofa may not be comfortable or functional for the intended users.
2. Overlooking details: Overlooking details can also be a pitfall in interior design.
3. Not considering the user experience: Another common pitfall is not considering the user experience. The interior needs to be designed with the end-user in mind, ensuring that it meets their needs and preferences.
4. Over Capitalizing: Interior design can be expensive, and it’s easy spend too much if costs are not managed carefully.
5. Not communicating effectively: Effective communication is essential in interior design. The designer needs to understand the needs and preferences of the client, and the client needs to understand what to expect.
6. Ignoring the Location: The interior of a building needs to be designed to complement the surrounding environment, taking into consideration factors such as light, views, and the building’s structure.
7. Choosing trendy over timeless: Choosing trendy design elements over timeless ones can result in an interior that looks outdated quickly.

Tips for a Successful Interior Construction Design Project

To create a successful project, it is essential to consider the following tips:

1. Set Clear Goals: Determine the goals of the job including costs, timeline, and the desired outcome.
2. Collaborate with Stakeholders: Engage with all stakeholders, including architects, engineers, and interior designers, to ensure that everyone is working toward the same vision.
3. Consider the User Experience: a critical point, design the interior with the end-user in mind, ensuring that it meets their needs and preferences.
4. Balance Aesthetics and Functionality: Create an interior that is both beautiful and functional, balancing aesthetics with the practical needs of the users.

Use Quality Materials: Choose quality materials and finishes that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing, to ensure the longevity of the project.

Case Studies

Case studies provide valuable insight into best practices for commercial interior construction design. Here are some examples along with a photo of each space for reference.

1) Google Office: The Google office in Tel Aviv, Israel, features a creative and functional design that incorporates elements, such as timber, and stone to create a unique and inviting interior. The space is designed to encourage collaboration and creativity, with open workspaces, cozy nooks, and playful design elements such as colorful paint and art.

2) Apple Store: The Apple store in Brussels, Belgium, is designed to reflect the sleek and modern aesthetic of the brand. The store features clean lines, minimalistic design elements, and large windows that allow light to flood the space.

3)Airbnb Office: The Airbnb office in San Francisco, California, is designed to reflect the company’s values of community, creativity, and sustainability. The space features an open and collaborative design, with natural elements, such as wood and greenery, incorporated throughout the space, bringing it to life.

Conclusion

Designing a commercial interior space is an exciting process, but it can also be daunting. With so many factors to consider and potential pitfalls to avoid, the project requires careful planning and attention to small things to achieve big success. In this blog post, we have provided an overview of interior design, highlighting the various stages of the design process and considerations to keep in mind. We have also provided tips for creating a successful project, emphasizing the importance of clear goals, collaboration with key stakeholders, and attention to user experience and functionality.

Finally, contact Level Engineering next time you decide to renovate your business interior.

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Upon visiting the site, our engineers initially suspected that the escarpment was not taken into consideration when calculating the wind load on the building. Accounting for the escarpment in the Topographic Factor of the wind load equation, it directly increased the wind load by 35%; meaning that the wind would have a higher impact on the building than if situated on flat land. 

Additionally, it appeared that the load input shown in the metal building fabricator’s drawings considered the entire footprint of the building as an “enclosed building”, which would not have taken into account the increased uplift pressures that would be seen for the overhang.

So, why did the roof come off?

During the engineer’s calculations, they found an uplift pressure of 100 pounds per square foot (psf), but the roof paneling used, was only adequate for an uplift pressure of approximately 33 psf. After discussing with the roofing panel manufacturer, it was determined that the panel used is not recommended for high wind conditions like those found on the Colorado Front Range. 

The roof paneling was subject to this extreme uplift because of an architectural design omission. Had a soffit been in place, the soffit would have taken the uplift force while the overhang roof paneling would have been subject to a reduced suction load.

Level Engineering can provide Forensic Inspections for many different commercial buildings, whether for investments, safety concerns, or natural disasters. 

Give us a call at (720) 408-0119, and our client relations team will work with you to set up a time for an engineer to come out to assess your property. 

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Structural connections of the exterior stairs and walkways were compromised and the concrete masonry unit (CMU) wall was starting to fail.

Our engineer designed a temporary stabilization system for the stairway to support the stairs for continued occupation and until the stairs could be completely rebuilt.

The engineer performed an analysis of the existing stairs and building structure, then designed a permanent steel framing system to safely restore and support the stairs, at minimal cost.

During the analysis, they also modeled the structure in 3D and provided structural repair plans to the owner. They worked with the contractor to ensure a quality product for the owner of the building. All of this work was performed on an accelerated timeline to ensure the safety of the building and the occupants.

Level Engineering provides common-sense solutions for a myriad of commercial structural challenges. We are experts in forensic evaluations, code compliance, and creative solutions. Level engineering has comprehensive design and construction backgrounds with over 150 years of combined field experience.

For more information about Level Engineering’s full range of civil and structural engineering services, give us a call at 720-408-0119.

Our experienced team will work with you to determine the best solutions for you and your building. Contact us today!

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