Architect Insights into Designing Mixed-Use Buildings

 In the past mixed-use building designs were the most common way to build in most urban areas. However, modern civilizations evolved into a new direction of urban planning. Commercial and residential architecture designs depended on separating different areas uses to offer the maximum usability of space. For owners and developers, creating connectivity with mixed-use spaces is the driving force in today’s growing urban development. You want a pedestrian-feel mixed-use building with urban access and the latest luxury amenities. Something that invites commercial business, residents, and organizations looking to lease mixed-use space with an ideal location. More than ever, owners and developers are also looking for the best mixed-use developments to achieve better building performance and cost-effective maintenance. Something we know a thing or two about.

Mixed-use property design guidelines

A building that has more than two usages is referred to as a complex building. Although the word complex doesn’t necessarily mean big in this case, the buildings are mostly large scale. When an architect starts designing a mixed-use property, the first thing they think of is how to make the Building fit in with the surrounding environment. Under this question, there are two parts to consider – first – design the Building to keep to the same character trades as the existing buildings. Or create an entirely different design while still respecting the look and feel of the surrounding environment. 

Before any of these designs can take place, an architect has to consider the following design guides: 

  •  The height of the Building:
    Like any building design, a mixed-use one should not exceed the surrounding buildings’ height. Even though a multi-function facility will require more space and more floors, the design rules constraints should always be applied.
  • Building materials:
    Building materials and colors are a part of every community’s identity. An architect should stick to the building materials used by surrounding buildings. For example, a glass tower should not be inserted between tiny, stone contemporary buildings.
  • Uses distribution:
    Keep commercial uses on the ground floor, from one end you want a connection between the pedestrian paths and industrial uses and from another, you want a sense of privacy for the residential part of the Building.
  • Parking:
    As it is a big building, you are bound to have more traffic. Parking should be designed to have at least one parking spot per unit and additional service car slots
  • Building parts:
    In a mixed-use building, you need sufficient directions to different areas. If you have two entrances, one for the residents and one for commercial, you need to clearly mark these entrances to help users know where they need to go. 

Interested In a Mixed Used Building – Speak to a Leading Commercial Architect in NJ

The firm of Seth A. Leeb is a full-service residential and commercial architectural firm that stays up to date with the latest architectural trends. We have considerable experience working on large and small residential projects, including remodeling, extensions, and new builds. 

For more information on our services, including custom home plans and home remodeling designs, and to speak to custom home architects, please contact us today or visit our website at https://leeb-architecture.com/

Originally posted https://leeb-architecture.com/architect-insights-into-designing-mixed-use-buildings/

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