Exploring the stages of building a commercial building
Building a commercial building is a complex process, involving multiple project phases, subcontractors and professionals; taking the project successfully from initiation to completion. As such, within this article, we’re exploring the stages of building a commercial building.
The stages of building a commercial building
Development and Planning: this is arguably the most crucial stage of the commercial building construction process as, within this stage, the foundations are laid for the entire project. It’s within this stage that the location, budget and choice of contractor will be made; determining the timeline, client and contractor expectations and desired outcomes.
Pre-design: this stage is essentially an extension of the development and planning stage, where both involve outlining the overall expectations and goals for the project. How the pre-design stage is managed, therefore, tends to be unique to the businesses and contractors involved, with some choosing to combine pre-design and planning into a single-phase. Though, however the planning and pre-design stage(s) are managed pre-design serves to outline the specific needs and crucial elements of the project in question, including the number, sizes and purposes of the rooms in the building and the general orientation of the structure of the building in relation to local roads and utilities.
Design: this stage requires detailed drawings and schematics of the building, utilising the expertise of engineers and construction professionals to ensure the structural integrity of the building, alongside the integrity and safety of the plumbing, electrics & lighting and mechanics/technology planned for use.
Pre-construction: the pre-construction phase is heavily focused on paperwork and administrative duties, including acquiring any required permits and insurances, alongside procuring bids from relevant vendors in order to meet the project budget. Not only this, but during the pre-construction phase, the construction project team is determined.
Construction: this is the main event! When all the magic happens and the commercial building construction truly begins; visions come to life and walls start going up. A lengthy process, the construction phase is where all of the previous hard work, planning and development really shines through.
Post-construction / handover: once construction has been completed, the newly constructed commercial building must go through a process of post construction – ensuring compliance, health & safety, quality control and evaluation & feedback. Post-construction is a chance for you to walk through the building with your contractor and assess the quality of the build, providing any feedback and comment – a bit like a wash up meeting.
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