Whether you’ve done office renovations or remodeling before or are considering working with an office redecorating company for the first time, it can be helpful to know some industry terminology. Listed below are some of the terms used in our industry.
BREEAM is an abbreviation for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method. First introduced in 1990, this rating system has become the world’s primary sustainability assessment. To achieve a BREEAM rating, a building will need to undergo third-party certification by a licensed BREEAM assessment body.
Cat A Installation Simply put, Cat A installation follows the shell and core stage and ensures that the building is fully functional. It includes the installation of all standard utilities such as electrical services and general lighting, but does not include décor or interior design features.
Cat A + Fitting Cat A + fitting is primarily important for landlords. It has all the elements of a standard Cat A with the addition of primitive Cat B features such as meeting rooms and kitchens. This jargon means that those renting the space in question will have the basic features they need to use the space.
Cat B Adaptation Cat B adaptation continues the project from the Cat A process, decorating the empty space and converting it into a fully furnished office. The Cat B procedure takes into account the specific needs of the personnel who will be using the building and adapts the space to their own requirements.
Coworking (Virtual Office) An increasingly popular phenomenon, coworking is changing the way small businesses operate. A coworking building either charges a membership fee or operates on a “pay-as-you-go” basis. The facility provides access to office space and shared workspaces for registered members. Because coworking spaces are often shared by different companies, they are places where entrepreneurial spirit is high, resulting in a strong sense of community.
Design and Build This concept refers to a project where a single company, design or construction services, assumes responsibility for completing a retrofit or renovation project. Unlike the traditional “design-bid” model where contractors will bid to provide a specific design, Design and Build allows the design and construction phases to overlap by providing a single point of responsibility. This benefits the client by increasing efficiency and reliability by allowing the project to be completed at a lower cost and in a shorter time.
Detail and Build A project undertaking where the client provides the design and the contractor takes responsibility for the execution of the work. It differs from traditional construction projects because there is a fixed price and schedule. Project risk is assumed by the design and build company.
Fitwell A building certification system that evaluates the health impacts of buildings and aims to encourage specific architectural practices that will benefit the well-being of building occupants. When evaluating the health impact of a building, it draws attention to the following criteria.
Community Health Refers to worker safety and the extent to which the building’s design encourages physical activity.
Office Layout Office layout is a project that involves developing an office space to accommodate the demands of employees.
Office Refurbishment This involves delivering a Cat B fit for purpose to an office that is no longer fit for purpose. This is often brought about by the need and specific requirements for re-arranging a space for new occupants or a desire to freshen up a space.
Shell and Core This term refers to the procedure performed on a building before the Cat A phase begins. This first stage of the process involves the construction of the skeleton and structure of the building itself, including elements such as the elevator and stairwell. At the end of the “shell and core” you should have a blank canvas that sets the stage for active wealth opportunities.
Area Plan / Area Audit A process in which information about an institution is collated and analyzed to determine the needs of personnel. This data is then used to conduct compliance studies to meet the needs of personnel.
WELL Building Standard A certification system run by IWBI (The International WELL Building Institute). It assesses the impact of buildings on human health and well-being. It is the world’s first building certification body. The scheme supports specific design and construction practices that have been proven to support human health through medical and scientific research.