What Are the Stages of the Commercial Construction Process for a Contemporary Bank Space in Queens and Brooklyn, NY?
What are the stages of the commercial construction process for a contemporary bank space in Queens and Brooklyn, NY? The process is complex, and for the inexperienced client, fraught with surprises. At Bellwood, we pride ourselves in creating a seamless and stress-free process, from start to finish. The process includes development and planning, design, and construction – but within these steps there are many, many smaller elements to consider.
Assuming that the property has already been purchased and is ready for renovation (or, if the client was fortunate enough to find a vacant lot on which to build), the first phase is a very detailed planning process.
Set a Budget
Step one is always to set a budget. Commercial building costs in the NYC area are typically between $200-$500 per square foot. Of course many factors are at play here - much more than we can write about in this blog - but suffice it to say that the budget will drive all design choices.
Make a Plan
The planning phase is very complex as it defines the goals for the project, and it’s the phase where the architect and general contractor come together if you’re not using a design-build firm where both entities (along with mechanical and electrical engineers) are under the same roof. The planning phase determines whether an existing building will be renovated, or whether it’s best to tear it down and start from the ground up.
Design and Logistics
The design phase will determine the layout and finishes of the space, which - for the purposes of a contemporary space - will involve engineering to ensure the bright, light, expansive spaces that are desired in modern design. Mechanical and electrical engineers are heavily involved during the process, as are interior designers who will make the space attractive and functional for all users. There will be countless meetings between the client and the design team during this phase; and it’s the phase during which many compromises are often made on materials and finishes that will fit within the design theme and the budget.
This phase also includes application for a building permit, insurance, and other logistics such as materials staging - which, in a busy urban area, are often difficult challenges. An experienced design-build company will have the expertise to ensure that this phase leaves no stone unturned, since mistakes early on can snowball into big problems later.
Construction
The construction phase is the messy and volatile part of the project involving site preparation (potentially demolition), and all of the incredibly complex and detailed moving parts that the project manager will be juggling to ensure the project stays on budget, on time, and that the client’s vision is being honored. Here, the project is somewhat at the mercy of unforeseen circumstances such as unavailability of materials, fabrication delays, supply chain issues (a pervasive problem since COVID), various challenges with subcontractors and local authorities, and even weather delays. An experienced project management team will ensure that most of these challenges are either anticipated or handled with speed and efficiency.
Post-Construction
Upon completion of the project, the contractor and client will do a walk-through and create a punch list of items that need further attention before the project is officially approved and signed off.
Although this sounds relatively straightforward, the main component that is the key to success is good communication. Working with a design-build firm can expedite communication. Since all of the necessary parties are working for the same company, it’s where the buck stops and there is often far more communication and collaboration between teammates than there is with outside parties.
Related: How to Find the Right Commercial Builder in the Queens and Brooklyn, NY Areas