As the economy begins to recover – shoppers return to retail and employees make their way back to the office – the buildings they return to should offer a true welcoming. More than just places of business, commercial spaces serve as the setting for professional collaboration, commerce, and the “normalcy” we are all looking for. As a property owner, what are you doing to signal that you are open for business? What message is your building exterior sending?
Today’s Trends
Commercial exterior trends are changing. Glass has dominated as one of the most popular building materials in commercial design for around 50 years, but property owners recognize this material has its shortcomings. Glass is not energy efficient, nor is it the most secure. Too often, commercial exteriors lack personality and give off a “cold” feeling. Look to Mother nature as a source of design inspiration. Wood is a beautiful and flexible material to work with and can help take years off your design. Natural stone of all kinds can also add warmth and depth to your exterior. Consider how material and color work together to provide a fresh appeal.
Energy Efficiency
After considering the value of an aesthetic update, factor in the cost savings of energy efficient design and materials. Energy efficient windows are just one example of how material choice can reduce heating and cooling bills and add to your operating bottom line. Your building exterior material choice is also an opportunity to increase energy efficiency. Brick and stucco are traditional choices, but don’t overlook new materials such as architectural panel systems. These panels can be made of resin, metal, or composite material. They quickly clad large spaces, add a layer of insultation, and make a bold statement.
Secure Style
Property security is always a factor to consider in the exterior design/remodel process. Accessibility to employees, tenants and visitors must be balanced with the security needs of your commercial space. Both design and material choice can help prevent break-ins, deter shoplifting, and provide lighting to secure entrances. When considering an exterior remodel, take advantage of the opportunity to review the following:
- New security systems available
- Lighting to enhance your building’s appeal
- Lighting to help deter crime
- Material choices that provide security (stone, wood, masonry – not glass)
‘Tis the Season
It’s not too late to begin a summer/fall exterior renovation. Now is the time to start the planning process and make the most of the long summer days. Minor updates not requiring city permitting or plan review can be completed in a short time frame. Larger scale projects that involve permitting generally take longer to get started, but Key Interiors consultative approach means we work with you every step of the process to ensure that your exterior design/build is completed on budget and on time.
The Key Difference
When considering an exterior remodel to your commercial building, Key Interiors provides you with a comprehensive and educational design/build process, as well as the “full toolbox” of material choices. For example, when updating windows, it is important to understand the cost difference between aluminum and vinyl frames. Depending on placement, vinyl clad windows could be a great cost savings. Many general contractors can quote you a price per square foot, but those estimates are “industry standard” and do not include custom design or material choices beyond the basics. Key Interiors consultative approach means that we share all options, all vendors, and educate clients throughout the process.
If you are considering an exterior remodel to your commercial building, contact Key Interiors to learn more about our process and the Key Difference.
