The commercial building sector demands consideration of many more attributes of the finished building design that a general or domestic shed might—and for good reason.
A prominent commercial building may need enhanced presentation depending on use, location and type of business. Although there is always a greater emphasis on function, especially if the industry is a harsh environment that involves heavy machinery, traffic and more, the form should always closely follow in the materials selection phase.
Balancing Design and Functionality
Selecting the right materials is crucial at the concept stage as it may impact the structural elements, configuration of access and spaces, and ultimately the design style. So working closely with the building designer and manufacturer to select materials is vital.
A short list of considerations in materials selections might include:
Engineering: Size does matter! Question if the structural material offered satisfies initial requirements and future extensions without expensive re-engineering. Building heights, spans and orientations, among other criteria, demand specific framework material elements.
Structure: Closely tied in with engineering is the structure choice to accommodate the intended enterprise. Solid concrete tilt-up wall panels might be great for a fertiliser or agricultural storage operation but might blow the budget for a large retail complex. Selecting the right materials with a builder who both designs and constructs and has knowledge of various construction processes is important to get right at the concept and estimation stage.
Environment: Consideration of the many possible external and internal environmental factors should be discussed at the design phase with your commercial builder. Coastal locations may require using cladding that resists corrosion from salt air. Maintaining a stable internal atmosphere may require specific insulation systems.
Noise abatement for neighbours may necessitate using acoustic-rated materials. Dust retention may require additional sealing products at joints and external points. Minimising visual impact in a sensitive environmental space may use materials that blend naturally with the surroundings.
Location, location, location: The catchphrase of the real estate game also plays true in the selection of materials for a commercial building. The variety of decorative cladding materials is expanding rapidly, and the past limitations of basic Colorbond, although still prevalent, no longer restrict the designer from creating an impressive feature frontage or achieving the corporate theme of a large complex or simple shed.
Application: The simple selection of cladding orientation can also change the structural elements of a building design. Vertical cladding or horizontal cladding? Angled cladding feature sections? Reverse pitch cantilever awnings? Grid ceilings? Fire-rated walls? The design options available mean the materials should all be considered part of the concept, architectural and structural process by your trusted commercial builder in Millicent.
Working closely with a building designer, manufacturer and commercial builder serving Millicent to Mount Gambier and beyond like Blackbird Industries means many of your material questions and selections can be dealt with at the right stage to save you money and achieve the right outcome for your next project. Get in touch with us today to discuss your needs.
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