Building Evaluation and Selection Should Garner High Priority When Relocating According to Commercial Architects at OTJ
Washington, DC (PRWEB) July 02, 2014 -- Companies today are faced with the decision to remain in their existing office space or relocate when their impending lease expiration date approaches or staff growth requires more room. While relocating can seem like a daunting task for the organization and its employees, the interior architectural design professionals at OTJ Architects continue to see successful results for businesses when sufficient time is allotted to appropriately evaluate and select the new office building.
“In addition to a sound building infrastructure and appropriate square footage, it’s also important to take into account the types of building amenities offered such as gym facilities, conference centers, or event spaces,” said Lance Jaccard, Partner at OTJ Architects. “These types of spaces help boost employee morale and ensure improved recruitment and retention.”
Once a building or buildings are identified for possible relocation, OTJ coordinates with the prospective landlord to get approval for test fits, obtain CAD backgrounds for review and schedule a tour of each space to become familiar with conditions that may affect planning and build-out costs. Test fits – or preliminary space plans – are then created to show the client’s potential new space within each building.
It is important to also obtain a full evaluation of the quality and quantity of the building standards of each location. OTJ is accustomed to performing this comprehensive review for clients to verify the existing building meets the organization’s desired standards going forward. OTJ team then compiles a building compliance review document based on the following evaluation tasks:
• CAD drawings review
• Building survey
• Effective square footage utilization analysis
“Because cost is another driving factor in relocating, we also prepare a preliminary budget and schedule indicating all critical dates that must be met to achieve the anticipated completion date,” Jaccard said. “We work with our clients to develop a list of construction requirements outlining the various items needed or desired for the new space and can submit this listing and the space plan to a general contractor to obtain preliminary construction pricing as well.”
OTJ has successfully helped a multitude of clients relocate their offices and realize greater space optimization, increased staff productivity, and improved operational efficiency including American Wind Energy Association, Spectrum Science and Partnership for Public Service.
“Office relocation can be very exciting for a company and its staff,” said Linda Jackson, Senior Project Manager at OTJ Architects. “However, the opportunity to design a new office does not occur very often, so it’s important that the building selected for relocation is one that can truly showcase the organization’s space in the best possible way.”
Contact OTJ Architects to discuss your architectural needs today.
About OTJ Architects
OTJ Architects is a well-respected national interior architecture design firm that has successfully completed thousands of projects throughout the country. Founded in 1990, OTJ is comprised of five studios headquartered in Washington, DC, with more than 60 architects and designers, many of whom are LEED Accredited Professionals. OTJ is registered in 37 states and is able to consult in all 50 states. The responsive interior architecture consultants create effective environments through listening, understanding and tailored design. These designs focus on helping clients enhance collaboration, company branding and employee recruitment and retention. OTJ’s design teams provide clients with personalized attention to create workplace solutions that reflect their unique, individual needs. For more information visit OTJ.com.
Liz Marshall, OTJ Architects, http://www.otj.com/, +1 (202) 621-1318, [email protected]
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