A three-story commercial mall is a multi-level building designed to house a variety of retail stores,

restaurants, and other businesses. The mall is typically located in a high-traffic area and is designed to
attract a large number of customers. Proper planning is necessary for the provision of spaces by
blending them into the grandeur and spirited environment. The mall is typically located in a high-traffic
area and is designed to attract a large number of customers. Proper planning is necessary for the
provision of spaces by blending them into the grandeur and spirited environment.

The mall's design should be given great thought, and the building entrance is an important feature that
provides a transitional element between the inside and outside functions. It creates the first impression
of the space a person is about to enter . The arrangement of floors of the mall is made with certain
intentions. The first floor is allowed for supplying food items for the convenience of the customers. This
is the space where a large number of customers can be expected. As the shops are arranged around a
circle, it is possible to view all of them standing in the middle of the circle. So, it is very easy for the
customers to locate the shops that they want to visit

When designing a three-story commercial mall, it is important to consider the space requirements for
the various areas of the mall. Proper planning is necessary for the provision of these spaces by blending
them into the grandeur and spirited environment. The following is a list of space requirements that need
to be considered:

 Retail stores: The exact space requirements for retail stores vary depending on the type of store
and the merchandise being sold. According to Baker and Funaro in Shopping Centers: Design
and Operation, 350 feet is the minimum satisfactory distance between stores, and not more
than 200 square feet need be devoted to the space itself. They recommend a space of 9 by 18
feet, and one 10 by 20 feet should be ample. The floor space is supposed to be 0.25 percent of
the entire mall building

 Restaurants: Restaurants require roughly 2 to 3 times the amount of parking that the rest of the
mall needs. Refreshment facilities (bar and restaurant) should be accessible by all users

 Entertainment spaces: Entertainment spaces like game rooms, gaming arenas, movie theaters,
and multiplexes require more parking space than other areas of the mall

 Leisure spaces: Leisure spaces like spas, saunas, salons, and massage centers require space for
equipment and treatment rooms

 Eateries: Eateries including fine dine restaurants, fast food corners, dessert points, and coffee
shops require space for seating and kitchen equipment

 Anchor locations: Anchor locations take up the most space in a mall. The exact space
requirements for anchor locations vary depending on the type of store and the merchandise
being sold

 Entrances: Entrances should be given equal attention and should be properly designed to create
a good first impression

 Restrooms: Restrooms are an essential space in a mall and should be properly designed and
located
 Parking: The parking space for a mall is standardized at a ratio of 3:1. This implies that for every
one square foot of retail in a mall, there should be three square feet of car parking space. If the
parking lots have sidewalks, the sidewalks should be at least seven feet wide to make it easier
for people carrying packages to move freely

 The floor space is supposed to be 0.25 percent of the entire mall building, and the ground floor
space is set not to be more than 25% of the building total area lot. The reason for large floor
space in the malls is to allow free and comfortable movements by the visitors

 Building materials and design elements: The design of a mall should be modern and immersive,
incorporating unique experiences for consumers

Here are some common aspects of national building codes that are typically considered when
designing commercial malls:

1. Structural Requirements: National building codes often specify the minimum structural
requirements for buildings, including load-bearing capacities, earthquake resistance, and wind
load considerations. These requirements ensure the safety and stability of the mall's structure.

2. Fire Safety: Building codes typically include regulations related to fire safety, such as the
installation of fire sprinkler systems, smoke detection and alarm systems, emergency exits, and
fire-resistant construction materials. Compliance with these codes is crucial for the safety of
mall occupants.

3. Accessibility: Accessibility codes, often based on international standards like the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States, require that commercial malls be designed to
accommodate people with disabilities. This includes provisions for wheelchair ramps, accessible
restrooms, parking spaces, and entrances.

4. Building Materials and Construction Techniques: Codes may specify the types of building
materials that can be used, their fire resistance ratings, and construction techniques. This helps
ensure the durability and safety of the building.

5. Occupancy Limits: Building codes establish maximum occupancy limits for different areas within
the mall, such as retail spaces, corridors, and common areas. These limits are based on factors
like the size of the space, the number of exits, and the intended use.

6. Electrical and Mechanical Systems: Codes govern the installation and maintenance of electrical
and mechanical systems within the mall. This includes guidelines for electrical wiring, HVAC
systems, and plumbing to ensure safety and efficiency.

7. Energy Efficiency: Many modern building codes include requirements for energy efficiency and
sustainability. These codes may mandate the use of energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems,
insulation, and renewable energy sources to reduce the mall's environmental impact.

8. Zoning and Land Use Regulations: Zoning codes dictate where and how commercial malls can
be located within a municipality or region. Compliance with zoning regulations is critical for
obtaining the necessary permits and approvals.
9. Parking Requirements: Building codes often specify the number and layout of parking spaces
required for the mall based on its size and intended use. Adequate parking facilities are essential
for customer convenience.

10. Safety and Security Measures: Building codes may require the installation of security features
such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and emergency communication systems to enhance the
safety and security of the mall.

11. Signage and Wayfinding: Regulations related to signage, including size, placement, and visibility,
are usually outlined in building codes. Proper signage and wayfinding are essential for guiding
visitors within the mall.

It's essential to work closely with local building officials and consult the specific building codes
and regulations applicable to your project location. Engaging architects, engineers, and
construction professionals with expertise in local codes and regulations is crucial to ensuring
that your commercial mall design complies with all legal requirements and safety standards.

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