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A commercial construction project is a significant undertaking. Project owners must make the best financial decisions to make every dollar count, especially in this day and age.
For some, that may mean new construction isn’t the best path. Instead, their best bet is to find an existing commercial property and perform some commercial remodeling.
This is called a commercial renovation. Although this can be cost-effective for business owners, many factors must be considered during the renovation process.
This guide will explain what a commercial renovation is and what steps are involved. It will also help you determine if you should consider a commercial renovation for your next project.
Table of Contents
1. What is a Commercial Renovation?
2. Who is Involved in a Commercial Building Renovation?
3. Preconstruction Steps to a Commercial Renovation
4. Would Your Business Benefit from a Commercial Renovation?
5. What You Can Expect From a Commercial Renovation With FMP Construction
A commercial renovation can take many forms. Some projects involve only a small remodel or an exterior facelift, while others are much more complicated.
Some commercial renovations mean taking an existing commercial space and adapting it for a new workspace. This is called adaptive reuse, which we have plenty of experience with.
This process could involve:
Commercial companies need building permits for any remodeling projects requiring professionals to sign off.
Most commercial renovations follow the design-build concept, which is the most cost-effective method. This strategy involves bringing the design and construction teams together in the beginning phases.
The architect is a key player in a commercial renovation. They are responsible for designing your project to fit into your existing structure while ensuring a cohesive interior and exterior design.
The MEPS design team will help to tie into or modify the existing systems.
An electrical and mechanical engineer may be needed for updating or upgrading power sources and mechanical systems. A master plumber can also be used to design the necessary plumbing adjustments.
This project will also require the help of a:
They will be responsible for implementing the designs into the construction process. Since they will be present during the initial design meetings, they can also comment on the feasibility of the project design and the chosen materials.
It’s vital to assemble your team before you purchase your property. They can help confirm the chosen site’s feasibility before making any investments.
Before the construction phase begins on a commercial renovation, the design team must complete the following steps:
To begin the space needs a site analysis, the project scope must be defined.
Will this renovation project involve a remodeling with an addition for extra square footage, or will it be a complete new-use renovation/adaptation?
Alternatively, the renovation could simply be an interior remodel or exterior facade improvements.
Once the project scope is determined, the next step is to see if the existing site will work.
The first step in completing a construction feasibility study of an existing building is to check its structural integrity.
The structural framing and design will be assessed, and any necessary structural repairs will be noted.
Essential questions to answer are:
If the structure and site pass the initial feasibility assessment, a deeper analysis must be made to see if there are any other obstacles or limitations to the project.
Zoning, coding, and occupancy permits can be challenging to meet and attain. Often, zoning obstacles can be overcome by discussing possible variances with the local authorities.
An energy assessment should also be completed. If the structure could benefit from a new HVAC system or some mechanical upgrades, the renovation should include this.
The construction permit will require renovations to meet ADA standards and improve accessibility for those with disabilities. This could affect the scope of work that must be completed.
Lastly, the structure should be assessed for space and design functionality.
Before beginning the schematic design phase, the estimated renovation cost must be calculated. Once approved by the stakeholders, a renovation construction budget should be created.
Learn more: Mastering Construction Budgeting: A Comprehensive Guide
Using the existing building drawings, the architect will try to see how the wish list fits into that structure. If more space is needed, the architect will determine if an addition to the building is feasible.
A renovation schematic design phase is like solving a puzzle within design and space constraints. The design team must be creative and innovative to make the project work.
The project manager will create a timeline with milestones and an end-date goal to organize the project.
Sometimes, renovations are done in phases. If so, the scope of work for each phase should be clearly defined. It can be helpful to create a renovation checklist for each phase.
Materials used for the commercial renovation should be chosen based on availability and sustainability.
Project managers must ensure building materials are ordered ahead of time so that the construction team isn’t stuck waiting for the delivery of supplies.
Materials should not only be suitable for the initial budget but also for long-term costs.
When possible, green building practices should be implemented. These are good for the environment and can earn a greater reputation, cost savings, and employee attraction.
Additionally, tax incentives and grants are available from the government and other organizations to encourage businesses to go green.
Yes, commercial renovations provide many benefits, but significant risks are also involved. Businesses need to weigh the pros and cons of such a large investment.
A commercial renovation could allow companies to update their spaces to adjust to the current workforce.
Since COVID, remote work and the work/live environment are not only preferred, but expected. Renovating your building to include more collaborative workspaces and integrated break rooms could improve talent retention.
A company can also offer more for their employees through a renovation that adds room for:
Companies need more space to develop departments, add new equipment, or build a storage warehouse when they grow. Expanding square footage to allow room for growth is another big reason many companies invest in commercial renovation.
Commercial renovations also allow for adaptations that may be unknown, including incorporating potential future phasing into the structure.
For many commercial renovations, structural repairs are made and old materials are replaced, extending the structure’s life. For instance, your building may require structural concrete repairs if it has any cracks or spalling.
Modern amenities that improve energy efficiency are also often installed.
As well, all of the above benefits will increase the property value, making the cost of the renovations worthwhile in the long run.
Companies are limited in their creative freedoms due to the limitations placed on them by the existing structure. No matter how hard you try, some renovations can’t live up to completely new construction.
Also, older buildings are unpredictable. Through the renovation process, unknown obstacles could be found that greatly increase the project cost and potentially even stop the project in its tracks.
Many firms have a signature style that they are known for. This will attract clients who want their designs. However, FMP Construction takes a different approach.
Instead of simply applying a signature style to your project, we follow a client-based process.
We take the time to understand our clients and what our clients’ clients want. We believe we should focus more on our clients’ success than artistic style.
In addition, we listen not only to what you know you want but also to what you didn’t know you needed.
This means that we ask the right questions. We want to know how your business works to help you look beyond your immediate needs and consider possible future growth.
We have years of knowledge in building code adaptations. We won’t shy away from code variances because the process is complicated.
FMP Construction understands that complex projects may require complex solutions, but we are willing to do what it takes to find the right path to success.
A commercial renovation has various benefits. For one, it’s often cheaper and faster than new construction for property owners.
It’s also a great way to upgrade your existing structure to reflect modern design and functionality.
Contact FMP Construction for your next commercial renovation project. We will find a way to transform your existing site to reflect your vision.
