One of the first known examples of a multi-use building is Trajan’s Market. This was a multi-level structure with shops and apartments built around the year 110AD.
Multi-use buildings were not seen much for a long time, until the 1900s when they became a lot more common across many cities in the US. Zoning laws changed this, as the locations of buildings with specific functions became regulated.
With time, urban areas have become more and more crowded. For instance, recent urban revival has resulted in the return of Multi-use buildings as a space-saving solution.
To clarify, on multi-use buildings and the benefits that come with them, keep reading.
What Are Multi-use Buildings?
As the name suggests, a multi-use building is one building that serves several purposes. Above all, three or more businesses can operate efficiently out of the same building.
Therefore, sometimes confused with office buildings. For example, multi-use buildings, however, can also contain other types of businesses, commonly including:
- Retail
- Hotels
- Entertainment
- Restaurants
- Residential units
- Industrial operations
These buildings are an excellent way to take full advantage of limited space.
Multi-Use Building Benefits
Multi-use buildings are making a large comeback for several reasons. These reasons can affect building owners, businesses in these buildings, and residents.
Exposure to Customers
Retail businesses inside a multi-use building can attract a significantly larger number of customers than stand-alone stores.
The inclusion of residential areas inside a multi-use building can further help with this. People living within the building are likely to often shop at their local businesses.
Efficiency
Efficient resources utilized are trash disposal, sewage, and energy. Maintenance costs can also be lower due to shared services between commercial and residential spaces.
In terms of the design, there are a lot of things to think about. Alpha To Omega Properties covers all stages from conceptual planning to initial design. Having all of this managed by one company is a huge benefit in the initial stages.
Location
In recent years millennials have been entering the housing market. Younger generations tend to prioritize local shops and services. A lot of value is placed on the convenience of being able to walk to shops and restaurants, as well as work.
Several multi-use building amenities being in a small area is beneficial here. Having easy access has become a huge selling point for new buyers.
Post-Pandemic Considerations
The Covid-19 pandemic has made it clear that moving forward there needs to be a large focus on health and wellbeing. Consequently, a multi-use building could potentially present a high risk of spreading viruses.
Air pollution shows increasing fatality risk of Covid-19, so environmental factors are being looked at.
Things such as open social spaces and green offices could be incorporated. Better service for electric vehicles rather than petrol vehicles, or even vehicle-free areas could help drop air pollution massively.
Design of Modern Office Space
The design of office spaces has changed a lot over the years. These changes are sometimes a direct result of the technology available.
For instance, increased use of laptops and tablets provides workers with more flexibility. Workspaces with several options have become more desirable as a result.
Large multi-function spaces (work, meetings, dining, etc.), smaller private booths, and well-planned circulation all make for an ideal working environment for everyone.
How to Get Started
There are a lot of steps to designing and constructing multi-use buildings. Alpha To Omega Properties is a comprehensive construction and design company, with a huge amount of expertise in commercial project management.
So, If you’re looking for help with a building project, or just have some questions, contact us here. We are always happy to help.