Commercial construction is undergoing a transformation, moving away from sterile and functional spaces to rooms that work with the user, creating a sense of comfort and style. Taking inspiration from long-held residential design features, hotels and cafes are now beginning to look like living rooms, with high-end detailing such as timber joinery, exposed brick and bespoke features.
As one of Sydney’s leading builders with experience in both residential and commercial projects, we’ve seen how beneficial it is to bring a residential mindset to a commercial fit out.
However, it’s not just a case of briefing a commercial builder and hoping for the best – only builders with experience in both types of construction will understand the unique requirements of your build and how to successfully merge the two. Here are some of our best tips.
1. High-end materials
Forget cheap and cheerful – commercial spaces are now embracing the high-end materials most commonly seen in residential projects. Think exposed brick, timber and bespoke joinery that allows you to take advantage of the unique features of your site.
2. Indoors-outdoors
Bringing the outdoors in has long been a feature of open-plan living spaces, but this seamless approach now extends to commercial spaces. In a recent project we completed for Chargrill Charlies in Dee Why, we installed sliding stacker doors and bifold servery windows. This allowed for another source of natural light and ventilation and created a seamless connection between the street and the restaurant, giving passers-by a chance to peek inside.
3. Embracing the natural look
Natural fibres have long been a go-to option in residential homes, but they are now rising in popularity in commercial property, with timber, rattan and wicker featuring across finishes and furnishings.
Design that incorporates indoor plants is also becoming more prominent, with the introduction of greenery considered from the initial design stages, instead of as an afterthought.
4. Sustainability
The commercial design market is embracing recycled materials, passive design and other sustainable features, with many clients recognising the need to invest in environmentally friendly measures. Renewability and recyclability are key to any modern commercial design, starting with the build process and ending with the facilities available to users.
For example, are there waste facilities that encouraging recycling or separating food waste? Is there an opportunity for solar panels or other renewable energy sources? Are there materials that can be recycled in the build process to save time and money? A residential-minded builder will have encountered these questions before and have solutions ready to deploy.
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If you’re looking to transform your commercial space, get in touch with the expert team at Ozzbuild. We’d be happy to discuss how our residential experience could benefit your commercial project.