COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

COMMERCIAL BUILDING
A commercial building is defined as one that uses at least 50% of its floor space
for commercial purposes, such as retail, service provision, or food service (restaurants
and the like). For example, a ten-story building in New York City with six floors
dedicated to apartments or residential dwellings and the remaining four floors to
commerce would not be considered a commercial structure. In addition, a commercial
building (or piece of land) can be defined as a space that has the potential to generate
revenue.

Additional qualities of commercial real estate include:

 A place where businesses can run their day-to-day operations and serve
customers or clients. As a result, a commercial property need not be a
store or restaurant; it can also be a space that generates revenue by
providing services to people, such as a law office or a doctor's office.
 Schools are not considered commercial real estate; however, places of
worship and lodging establishments such as hotels may be considered
commercial properties.
 Unlike residential rental properties, where a tenant pays a fixed monthly
fee for the entire apartment (and that is how the lease agreement is
written), commercial property leases are typically written so that the
occupant pays a set amount per square foot of space.

TYPES OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES

Within the scope of commercial properties, there are generally six different types:
Office

Retail
Industrial

Multi-family
Land

A single-tenant space to a skyscraper, and everything in between, are all examples

of commercial properties that are classified as office properties. Buildings are classified
as Class A, B, or C, which leads to more classifications.

 Class A structures are thought to be the best of the best. It's usually a newer
building with better amenities and infrastructure. A Class A building, on the other
hand, could be an older structure that has undergone extensive renovations. In
general, they are well-managed and situated in a desirable location with easy
access to other points of interest.
 Class B buildings are typically the most sought after by investors because,
despite their age, they can still generate a significant return on investment with
some renovations and upgrades. A Class B structure is typically well-maintained
and managed.
  Class C structures are typically over 20 years old, in less desirable locations, and
poorly managed and maintained. These buildings are usually in need of
renovations and, as a result, charge lower rents to compensate for the lack of
maintenance. Because of the lower quality of the property, these spaces tend to
stay vacant for longer than a Class A or Class B commercial property, making
them prime targets for redevelopment.

Retail and restaurant commercial real estate properties can be standalone structures
or can be found on the lower floors of larger structures, especially in more urban areas.
This is particularly true of institutions like banks and coffee shops. Shopping malls or
strip malls (also known as strip centers) are frequently the focal points of commercial
real estate properties in less urban areas.

A strip center is a non-enclosed space that houses multiple retailers, covers

anywhere from 5,000 to over 100,000 square feet, and has a tenant that acts as an
anchor, such as a large supermarket or TJ Maxx, with the remaining stores being
smaller retailers, either in name or in size.

A shopping mall, on the other hand, is typically between 400,000 and 2 million
square feet in size and may include multiple anchor stores such as Macy's, Nordstrom,
and Sephora. Depending on the location and average clientele of that particular
shopping mall, the remaining stores may range in size, national name recognition, and
price point. For example, depending on the location and average clientele of that
particular shopping mall, you may find a Payless Shoe Source right across from an Aldo
or Ferragamo.

RSIDENTIAL BUILDING

A residential building is defined as one that uses more than half of its floor space
for residential purposes. To put it another way, a residential building provides sleeping
quarters with or without cooking or dining facilities, or both.

TYPES OF RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

Residential buildings are divided into following types:

Individual houses or private dwellings

Individual houses or private dwellings are usually owned solely by members of

one family. When a building houses more than one family, it is referred to as a multiple
family private dwelling.

Lodging or rooming houses

 Multiple or a group of buildings that are managed as a lodging or rooming house.
Accommodation is provided for different individuals on a temporary or permanent basis
in this case.

Dormitories

Dormitories are another type of residential building in which sleeping accommodations

are shared by multiple people. This category includes school hostels and military
barracks.

Apartments
 Apartments or flats are big buildings which consists separate dwellings for
different families. Apartment will reside minimum three or more families living
independently of each other.

Hotels

Hotels are similar to lodging houses in that they are both managed by a single
person, but they primarily provide temporary lodging. This category includes inns,
motels, and other lodging establishments.

SITE SELECTION FOR RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

The site selection for any building is a crucial and expert job that should be
handled with extreme caution by an experienced engineer. The site requirements for
buildings with various occupancies differ. The following are some of the important
factors to consider when choosing a site for any residence.

 The location should be in a fully developed area or one with development

potential.
 There should be good transportation options, such as a train or a bus service, for
going to work, college, the market, and so on.
  Water supply, drainage sewers, electric lines, telephone lines, and other civic
services should be located close to the chosen site in order to obtain their
services at no additional cost.
 As much as possible, the soil at the site should not be of the made-up type.
Buildings constructed on such soils typically experience differential settlement,
which can lead to collapse. In such circumstances, building cracks are quite
common.
 The chosen location should be large enough to provide ample light and air to the
building while also preventing neighboring structures from dominating it.
 The ground water table at the site should not be very high.
 The proximity of schools, hospitals, markets, and other amenities is considered
beneficial for residential sites, but these amenities have no bearing on the
location of other public buildings.
 At a reasonable depth, good foundation soil should be available. This aspect
reduces the building's cost significantly.
 The site should command a good view of landscape such a hill, river, lake, etc.
 Residential house site should be located away from the busy commercial roads.
 Because such locations are subjected to continuous noise, residential sites
should not be located near workshops or factories.
 The site's orientation has an impact on its selection. In our country, the site
should be such that in the summer, early morning and late evening sun are
accepted in the building, and in the winter, maximum sun light is available.

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

Commercial construction and residential construction vary in nearly every way

from the building materials used to the equipment required, and even the way funding is
secured. The differences start with the way residential properties are used compared to
commercial properties. Residential refers to buildings that are designed to be lived in.
Commercial and Residential properties have significant key differences including
Building Materials, Codes, Cost, Construction Equipment, and Construction time.
BUILDING MATERIALS USED IN COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

Every project requires certain materials to meet the demands of a building

design. In general, the materials used for residential construction are much different
from those used in commercial buildings. The average home uses timber frame
construction because timber is considered the most cost-effective and structurally
appropriate for smaller-sized buildings. Companies that specialize in residential
construction are best-suited to complete traditional timber frame construction projects.
While some architecturally designed homes implement steel framing into construction,
the average homeowner generally can’t afford to invest in a steel-frame home. 

Commercial construction projects have larger, more complex design

requirements that demand different materials than the timber commonly used for
residential properties. Steel frame construction is most commonly used for commercial
projects because it is a more resilient material and allows for larger and taller buildings
with greater longevity. It is essential to consider the quality and rating of steel and the
construction techniques that will be used before signing a contract.

CODES AND PERMITTING

Commercial buildings have stricter regulations than residential. Both require

adhering to specific codes and obtaining permits from the municipality in which the
structure is being constructed.

However, commercial properties have different rules and regulations for building
materials, electrical systems, plumbing, construction techniques, design, and size.

Construction management professionals for commercial projects are well-versed

in the relevant local and federal building regulations that are necessary for commercial
projects. Additional standards are in place for commercial buildings to protect against
safety concerns related to elevators, IT concerns, handicap accessibility, parking lots or
parking garages and others. Commercial codes and permits are complex and require
experienced professionals to ensure compliance. While residential buildings also
adhere to building standards, these requirements are considered simpler and easier to
comply with than commercial construction.

SIGNIFICANT COST DIFFERENCES

The costs for residential and commercial developments are vastly different, even
for buildings of comparable size.

These cost differences stem not only from the materials and compliance standards
explained above but also from costs related to overhead, labor, and equipment. The
number and quality of workers, as well as the use of specialized equipment, can have a
significant impact on the final cost of a project. Bidding is frequently used to secure
labor; the job is awarded to the lowest-priced, most capable bidder.

Residential properties, on the other hand, can rack up significant bills for
overhead, labor, and equipment, but these cost differences are rarely comparable
because residential construction is done on a much smaller scale.

Funding for commercial versus residential construction is completed using

different protocols. Commercial projects are often funded by, a corporation with bank
financing, government agency, and a wealthy owner or developer. The funding entity
will then hire a general contractor to oversee the project and hire and schedule
subcontractors through a competitive bidding process. The homeowner usually takes
out a bank loan to pay for residential projects. Insurance loans or cash may be used to
complete the purchase in some cases, or the residential construction may be covered
by a government agency in the event of a natural disaster. Residential projects include
extensive interaction between homeowners, contractors, and subcontractors. Work is
often scheduled through referrals or marketing rather than bidding.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

Commercial construction, by its very nature, necessitates the use of specialized

equipment to complete most projects. Many commercial building designs necessitate
the use of heavy machinery such as earth moving equipment and cranes. To ensure job
safety and project quality, these machines must be operated by experienced
professionals. While residential construction necessitates specialized knowledge, only
the most lavish homes necessitate the use of industrial-scale construction machinery.

Furthermore, many aspects of a residential construction project are completed by

DIY-ers with impressive results, using advice from friends or online How-To videos.

This would not be possible on a commercial project. Mistakes and accidents that
are made on residential projects are often much easier to remedy than those in
commercial construction and don’t lead as easily to a lawsuit.

STANDARDS AND SPACES FOR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

ESTABLISHMENTS

(Nasa Book, kopyahin mo xd)

Shopping Center

Retail Shop

Book Shop

Jewelry Shop

Shoe Shop

Barber Shop

Supermarket

Restaurant

General Offices

Private Offices

Banks

Hotels
Motels

Medical Offices

Commercial Parking Lot

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS FURNISHINGS

When designing the interior of a space, it’s important to keep in mind the differences
between residential and commercial furniture. Commercial furniture is more durable and
can withstand constant use, whereas residential furniture does not need to be as tough
because it does not see the same amount of traffic. Commercial furniture is often more
expensive than residential furniture due to its durability, professional appearance, and
superior construction; however, commercial furniture can be customized in a variety of
ways to meet the needs of the end user. As a result, commercial furniture is made to
order, and delivery can take anywhere from six to eight weeks.

Whether you’re buying new furniture to upgrade your brand’s image or because
you’re trying to instill a new company culture and up morale, there are quite a few
considerations to keep in mind to help you choose between residential or commercial
furniture.

Commercial Furniture
 Commercial furniture is frequently made to withstand a lot of use. It can
withstand changes in the environment, such as being moved frequently or jostled. The
materials used are of higher quality and will last for a longer period of time. Commercial
furniture is designed to be replaced every ten years, which means that the designs are
typically more neutral and less eye-catching because they must adapt to changing
trends.

Residential Furniture
 Residential furniture is usually made of less durable materials and has flashier
designs that try to keep up with the latest trends and be more stylish. These are less
expensive, making them ideal for a workplace where replacing a broken storage unit
isn't a priority.

Fabric and Threads

Fabric selections for both commercial and residential spaces should be

considered, such as whether it is scratch, stain, and UV resistant, easy to clean, and
appropriate for the space. For example, you wouldn't buy microfiber furniture for a
company that allows employees to bring their pets to work. There are also fire-
resistance standards in place, which require a certain level of protective coatings on
furniture.

Meeting Regulations
 Unless you're specifically buying for a dorm room or co-op area that has rules
and doesn't allow items like certain types of lights or space heaters, residential furniture
doesn't usually need to adhere to any specific coding. However, there are usually more
rules in place for commercial spaces that you should be aware of. As previously stated,
ensuring that the fabric is fire resistant is a crucial regulation. Some jurisdictions
mandate that businesses only purchase furniture that can accommodate a wide range
of people, regardless of their height, weight, or any disabilities they may have. The
Americans with Disabilities Act lays out the rules and regulations that commercial
spaces must follow in order to be accessible to people with disabilities. Additionally,
designers and architects incorporate their own guidelines into each structure, which you
should be aware of.

Other things to consider in residential and commercial furniture

Indoor furniture

Interior design is commonly associated with residential designers that specifically

concentrate on space planning and design for a home or any personalized space.
However, commercial interior design, also referred to as contract design, has a niche of
interior design for space planning as well. Such specialized interior designers plan
spaces for hotels, restaurants, corporations, gyms, hospitals, medical facilities, and
schools in the most adroit and meticulous way.
 You must first learn about the type of furniture, the manufacturing process, and
the product itself before making your purchases. Commercial furniture is renowned for
its high durability and ability to withstand wear and tear over extended periods of time.
Owners of commercial spaces prefer commercial grade furniture because of its
durability, superior construction, and professional appearance.

Quality

Furniture quality is an important business consideration in high-traffic commercial

environments. The quality of furniture is determined by its functionality, durability, and
style. For example, different hardwoods are used for the wood seating components,
which are assembled using Mortise & Tenon jointing to ensure long-term strength and
durability. Padded seating is available in a variety of colors with high density foam
padding, premium vinyl, and stain resistant fabrics. In comparison, furniture for
residential use doesn’t need to withstand high levels of daily use and abuse as they are
used to serve mainly one family and occasional visitors. While the furniture is made to
last, it’s not as strong, durable and easy to maintain when compared to commercial
furniture.

Design

Furniture for commercial spaces is frequently made to withstand a lot of use.

Commercial furniture is designed to last at least ten years, so there are fewer variations
in the designs. They tend to be more neutral in design because they need to be able to
adapt to various interior design trends. Most commercial furniture can be customized,
allowing you to choose from a variety of color schemes and upholstery options.
Residential furniture, on the other hand, has a wide range of designs that aim to be
stylish, current, or as classy as the home owner desires. They can be ornate or
minimalist. There is a plethora of styles to suit everyone's preferences.

Durability
 Though commercial and residential furniture may appear to be identical, there is
a significant difference in terms of durability. Commercial furniture, on the other hand,
must be built to withstand the rigors of the food service and hospitality industries. Metal
items are protected with a protective powder coat that resists rust, flaking, and
scratches. Upholstery for restaurant seating should be fire-resistant and stain-resistant
fabric or other materials. Residential furniture doesn’t necessarily have to adhere to any
specific coding or regulations and are mainly bought for their visual appeal. This is not
to say all residential furniture is flimsy or unsafe but it certainly be outlasted by its
commercial grade counterpart.

Outdoor Furniture

Whether commercial or residential, most people look for the same characteristics
they value in furniture for indoor use when they evaluate outdoor furniture. They look for
quality, durability, style, comfort, and of course affordability. The only difference is patio
furniture is built to endure exposure to harsh weather elements. Just as it is for indoor
commercial and residential furniture, there are big differences for residential and
commercial grade outdoor furniture based on how their construction and the materials
used.

Materials

Patio furniture made of aluminum is the best option in areas with frequent
rainstorms or high humidity because it is resistant to water-based damage. In temperate
climates, commercial-grade steel or iron outdoor furniture with a powder-coat finish that
prevents rusting and discoloration is a good choice. Because they are resistant to
temperature changes, tempered glass, plastic teak, and resin are frequently used
outdoors.

With the look of teak wood without the upkeep, plastic teak is quickly becoming
the popular choice as it is lightweight, long lasting, eco-friendly, low maintenance and
waterproof. Resin table tops don’t require painting or sealing. They natural maintain
their vibrancy and won’t easily fade, crack, rot or peel. They are also fire retardant and
stand against extreme temperatures.

Design

Many guests prefer to dine outside when the weather permits. The design of a
restaurant patio can help to set the tone and create an outdoor oasis. The right patio
furniture setup and arrangement can make a big difference in the overall design. The
contrasting aluminum frames on the plastic teak tables and chairs give off a vacation
vibe that makes guests feel at ease. The allure of an outdoor Parisian sidewalk cafe is
created by aluminum bamboo rattan chairs and a resin table with a light marble finish.

A rooftop bar or outdoor lounge can be a perfect spot for pure relaxation and for
hosting elegant happy hours with dim romantic outdoor lighting, scenic views and faux
wicker bar stools accompanied with matching cushioned chairs. There are even beach
style metal chairs that will allow your guests to feel like they are on vacation.

Durability
 Commercial outdoor furniture materials last for years in ideal conditions with
minimal maintenance, whereas residential outdoor furniture needs to be replaced every
couple of seasons, especially when exposed to inclement weather. Most patio furniture
items can withstand a variety of elements for a lifetime and still look brand new. Another
important factor that affects durability is usage.

Because they are not used as frequently as outdoor furniture found on restaurant
patios or by the poolside at popular hotels and resorts, residential patio tables have less
wear and tear. To ensure maximum strength, restaurant outdoor chairs and bar stools
have a support bar underneath them. Overall, commercial patio furniture materials are
more durable.
 REFERENCES

https://www.cdmg.com/building-faqs/commercial-versus-residential-
construction#:~:text=While%20residential%20properties%20are%20exclusively,location
%20for%20a%20business%20enterprise.

https://www.cdmg.com/building-faqs/commercial-versus-residential-
construction#:~:text=While%20residential%20properties%20are%20exclusively,location
%20for%20a%20business%20enterprise.

https://www.upcounsel.com/commercial-building-definition

https://www.archdaily.com/774114/residential-and-commercial-building-messer-ssm-
architekten

https://theconstructor.org/building/types-site-selection-residential-building/5995/

https://www.bos.com/inspired/the-difference-between-commercial-and-residential-
furniture/

https://furnishingsanddesign.ua.edu/2015/02/01/residential-vs-commercial-furniture/

https://www.sdofficedesign.com/commercial-vs-residential-furniture-whats-the-
difference/

https://www.restaurantfurniture.net/resources/articles/what-is-commercial-grade-
furniture-and-how-does-it-differ-from-residential
Planning and Designers Handbook, Second edition. By Max B. Fajardo