The basis of a truly successful commercial building is good design so make sure that you get it right first time by employing the services of a building designer for your commercial project. Here’s what you need to know.

A building designer can be defined as a professional that prepares the design of a building and also the working drawings and specifications that are needed for the project to go ahead. Building designers are particularly useful for commercial projects as they are able to design a building and space that meets your exact needs, whether that is a retail space, office space, or some other kind of commercial environment. They will also work to ensure that you get the most you can out of your budget and that your commercial building is as environmentally sustainable as possible. You will end up with a building that is not only functional but attractive, and it is this combination that creates productive, successful environments. Not only that but a correctly designed workplace is a safe workplace and this is a key thing to think about during the building design phase. The building designer will also be able to help with things such as getting development approvals and the relevant permits from the local council.

When hiring a building designer for your commercial project, think about the following:

• Do they have experience with commercial design?
• Can they listen to your ideas and turn them into a reality?
• Are they able to work within what is often a very strict budget?
• Will they draw up a written contract that details everything?
• Are they registered with the Building Designers Association (BDA)?
• Are they licensed with the appropriate body?
• Can they make themselves available for your project as necessary?
• Do they have references or a portfolio that you can refer to in order to see their past work?