Commercial architecture compared to other types of architecture
Comparing commercial architecture to other types
There are many different types of architecture: residential, landscape, urban, industrial, commercial. Each have similar approaches, but different executions. The focal point of this post is commercial architecture. Comparative to these other architectural types, what makes commercial architecture unique?
Commercial compared to Residential
The glaring differences between these common types of architecture are building size and foot traffic. Residences are smaller projects. Such projects allow for close communication with the client (the homeowner) and the interior designer. Each party will discuss specific needs and wants based off the client’s preferences and vision, and the client will be by the architect’s side throughout to share his/her opinions on the plan and design.
Commercial buildings, on the other hand, consist of architectural design that is more straightforward. Moreover, commercial projects are more black and white. There is less design pressure as the focus is more so about necessities rather than customization. For instance, retail stores need a specific number of bathrooms, offices, or warehouses. They also need to be spaced properly to enable easy navigation for customers. Those details are more important than interior decoration.
Commercial compared to Landscape
Landscape architects deal with the outside world. Parks, neighborhoods, and outdoor public spaces are among their common projects. Landscape architecture has to be prepared for crowds and everyday foot traffic. However, the primary concern with this type of architecture is appearance and condition. Parks needs to be visually appealing. People go to parks to enjoy nature; therefore, parks must offer a natural, comfortable feel.
Concrete paths need to be level and free from cracks. Trees and shrubs need to be spaced properly and in bloom. In addition, parks, neighborhoods and public spaces need resting areas, such as benches or gazebos. Lastly, lighting is also important. People need to feel safe when walking or visiting these areas at night. Clearly, landscape architecture is entirely different from commercial architecture.
Commercial compared to Urban
Urban architecture focuses on cities. The complex version of architecture must be able to control the masses of inhabitants within a city. Cities usually experience a balance of foot traffic and car traffic. For this reason, intersection controls, whether it be traffic lights, stop signs, or yield signs, need to be placed strategically. People need to be able to reach their destinations safely and timely; it is up to the urban architect to ensure such objectives. Additionally, the numerous buildings throughout a city must be properly spaced. This can be executed rather simply as long as architects adhere to city building codes.
Like landscape architecture, urban architecture applies to the design of an area as opposed to a single structure. Hence, the obvious difference between urban and commercial architecture.
Commercial compared to Industrial
Industrial architecture is most closely related to commercial architecture. Each plan the layout of a singular, large building. Industrial plants do not have customers, though, they do employ a ton of people. Industrial architecture requires a space that can hold all employees and allow for augmentation. The primary difference is the equipment and machinery used in industrial buildings. All sorts of specialized equipment is used in industrial plants. Because of this, a plant may need a specific number of electrical outlets, specified heating or cooling, and adequate spacing to allow workers to navigate between machines and to have enough work space to do their jobs. Plumbing and piping are also particular aspects to account for in industrial architecture.
As you can see, there are evident differences between commercial architecture and all other architecture types. If your project requires any of the above types, DBA Architects can execute the project. We’ve been assisting clients with their architectural needs for over 28 years, handling hundreds of thousands of projects. Contact DBA Architects today! Also, visit our blog for additional architectural news and input.
