The demands on commercial facilities are greater than ever in 2025. They must be high performing, low maintenance, and energy efficient. All while maintaining a top-notch appearance that attracts customers and boosts employee morale. Fortunately, there are a number of innovative materials and design techniques that can help accomplish these various goals. Keep reading as we explore some of the best ways to enhance facility performance through strategic infrastructure choices.
Provide Some Sound Mitigation
Clamorous industrial environments can have multiple drawbacks. They can negatively impact the focus and productivity of employees. Extreme noise can cause ear health problems. It may also result in municipal fines if it becomes a distraction to the surrounding community.
There are multiple means of industrial noise reduction for a commercial facility. Acoustical louvers reduce the impact of ambient noise created by strong winds and heavy precipitation hammering against walls. Mass-loaded vinyl enclosures can be added to noisy generators to limit disturbance from utility rooms. Sound-absorbing blankets applied to perimeter fencing can enhance the privacy of the facility and guarantee tranquility for neighboring structures.
Use Passive Design Principles
Sustainability and energy efficiency are the name of the game in modern building design. No matter how breathtaking the structure looks or how well it performs, it will fall short of expectations if it is an energy pit.
While advanced features such as PV technology, water harvesting, and low-E windows are some of the most popular ways to enhance energy efficiency, much of the battle is fought from the beginning of the design process. Namely, by using passive features that leverage the building site for as much natural heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation as possible, it significantly reduces the amount of energy required to create a comfortable and functional facility.
Strategic building orientation can optimize sunlight for daytime lighting. This is further leveraged with correct window placement and skylighting. Louvers aligned with the area’s prevailing wind patterns can control ambient airflow into the structure for improved ventilation. Using trees, hills, and other natural barriers for shading reduces the amount A/C has to work during the hot summer months.
Protect the Foundation
There is no quicker way to put a facility out of commission than foundation problems. Compromised foundations create structural integrity issues for the rest of the building, leading to safety, performance, and aesthetic challenges.
There is no greater enemy to foundations than water. Both pressurized groundwater and water flow in above-grade areas have the potential to threaten the foundation. As such, it is crucial to install the best moisture barrier for basement walls when constructing a commercial facility. When combined with an effective groundwater control system (downspouts, gutters, slot drains), foundational moisture barriers can prevent condensation in structural walls, reducing the risk of mold/mildew formation, musty smells, and increased humidity for ongoing structural integrity and facility performance.
Maximize Versatility
Versatility is a top concern in modern facilities. Buildings must be able to seamlessly evolve to accommodate a constantly-changing business landscape.
Open interiors are a great starting point for enhanced customizability. With fewer interior walls, renovation and reconfiguration are markedly streamlined. Durable flooring choices are also paramount. Materials such as polished concrete and epoxy terrazzo provide a classy finish that is not easily damaged by motorized carts or shifting furniture. Demountable partition walls--especially glass options that do not restrict light transmission--are a great feature for quickly defining space and adding privacy as needed.
Leverage Exterior Space
There are numerous benefits to constructing functional exterior space in a commercial building. It can quickly give employees and/or patrons the chance to step outside and get fresh air. It provides connectedness with nature for improved mood.
Above and beyond occupant wellness, many facilities are also looking for ways to use the building’s exterior for day-to-day operations. Rooftop decks and landings are being used for short-term storage and light packing. Patio flooring installations are also becoming increasingly popular, providing durable, attractive surfaces that extend usable work or leisure areas outdoors. Well-designed patio floors can create comfortable breakout spaces for employees, outdoor dining areas for restaurants, or multifunctional event spaces for commercial use. Green roofs are being used not only for their environmental benefits, but as a place to hold important work meetings and business functions.
Don’t Neglect Aesthetics
“Industrial” and “utilitarian” are not one and the same. It has become increasingly apparent in recent years that all types of commercial facilities must be vibrant, attractive, and welcoming. This ensures that employees take pride in the workplace for enhanced mental health and productivity.
Strategic landscaping choices are a first step. Carefully mix low-water features, such as stone patios and brick walkways, with well-manicured greenery for a comforting feel. Keep windows in top condition for an attractive crystalline aspect that maximizes light flow. For facades that feel a bit drab, consider decorative screen panels for an element of architectural intrigue.
Build Strategically and Help Your Facility Thrive
Modern commercial buildings must be able to pass a lot of tests. From next-level sound mitigation to functional exterior space, consider any of the ideas listed above to make your structure as high-performing as possible. For more of the latest trends in medical facility design and equipment sourcing, explore the resources at Omnimed for ideas and inspiration!
Author Bio:
Todd Gillman is a freelance writer that loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on residential and commercial real estate. He lives in Land O’ Lakes, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and researching real estate trends in his free time. Todd’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.