Architects play a pivotal role in commercial construction. As the individuals primarily involved in designing a structure, architects provide the detailed drawings, floorplans, and specifications required for a construction project. Architects may also be responsible for providing preliminary estimates on cost and time in conjunction with the general contractor. From scaling a model to conducting risk assessments, commercial architects are integral to the success of a construction project. Learn more about the importance of having a quality commercial architect on the job right here.
Exploring Architectural Expertise
As a general commercial contractor in the San Francisco Bay Area, Gidel & Kocal knows the importance of working with the best in the business. Our company has maintained our top-tier reputation for quality and excellence throughout the decades because we understand the value each party brings to the table. That includes working with the most qualified architectural teams in the industry.
Commercial architects do so much more than just provide drawings and blueprints. While both of these are integral to the construction and success of a commercial construction project, they are not where the end of the road lies as far as an architect’s responsibilities are concerned. Commercial architects are heavily involved in the conceptualization and design development aspects of commercial construction. It starts with planning and drafting a structurally sound building, but their work doesn’t stop there. In addition to designing a building for aesthetics, commercial architects must also consider budgetary requirements, design according to building safety codes, account for permits, and more.
Beyond the Design
Expertise in commercial architecture requires a solid understanding of the multifaceted nature of commercial construction. It goes beyond meticulously scaled drawings and includes elements such as electrical, heating, cooling, plumbing, and ventilation systems. The architect’s responsibilities include knowing which building codes must be accounted for given the type of structure that is being built. For example, life science conversions will have different requirements from auto dealerships, medical facilities, and financial institutions. An experienced commercial architect will come equipped with the knowledge necessary to design a building that supports all of the activities that will be performed within it.
Collaboration for Vision Realization
As is the case with any professional in a commercial construction project, no one works alone. A successful outcome is only possible when all parties work together in a cohesive manner. The collaborative efforts between architects, construction teams, clients, and stakeholders are what make for a commercial building everyone can be proud of. Synergy between the parties is crucial, but that requires openness from all sides.
Experienced and established commercial architects tend to have strong relationships with general contractors. Many have worked together on numerous previous projects, which makes for a seamless transition from design to construction. As any professional in the general construction space knows, collaboration is key. What’s more, the best projects are those in which each process is integrated into another. Pre-construction is not isolated from design, nor is design isolated from client coordination. While there may be a process in which one stage precedes the next, it is imperative that each party considers the others when making their decisions. A holistic approach to commercial construction will always yield the most successful outcome in terms of safety, expectations, and client satisfaction.
Gidel & Kocal’s Approach to Commercial Architecture
The partnership between a commercial general contractor and a commercial architect is one of the most important on any given construction project. As a leading general contractor in the Bay Area, we pride ourselves on partnering with only the most established commercial architects in the region.
Just as with general construction, commercial architecture can be extremely specific. Certain architectural firms specialize in niche areas of commercial construction. What’s more, their technological expertise with regards to computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting software may vary depending on the scope of the project. Gidel & Kocal is particular about who we choose for each job. Clients who opt to work with us are guaranteed a level of professionalism, experience, and expertise that exceeds their expectations.
The trade partners we work with are all fully licensed and insured. Commercial architectural firms come with proven track records; oftentimes, they also come with our own seal of approval, as we have worked with many of them before on previous construction projects.
From the early stages of conception all the way through to the final drawings, commercial architects are essential to the success of a construction project. To discuss the role architects will have in your future construction project, we encourage you to contact us at Gidel & Kocal today.
