Commercial architectural design is a complex, multi-layered process that requires detailed planning, research, and collaboration.

Undertaking your own commercial design project can feel a little daunting. It can be difficult to know where to begin, who you need to work with, and how to get from concept to execution.

In Cape Town, architects operate the same as anywhere else. However, specific local regulations and restrictions that impact the design process will vary from country to country.

Research is an essential part of any design journey, so let's outline what you'll learn in this blog, so you can feel more comfortable when you start a design project.

This blog will cover:

• What Is Commercial Architectural Design?
• The Design Process in 6 Simple Steps
• Why You Need A Great Commercial Architect For Your Project

What is Commercial Architectural Design?

Commercial architects work on projects ranging from corporate buildings and cultural venues to hospitals and airports.

Their skill level and expertise take many years of training and experience.

Architect students typically spend between 5 and 7 years studying, and that’s even before they complete the necessary experience and further exams to obtain their licence. 

Additional Considerations in Commercial Architectural Design

There are many additional elements in commercial buildings that you don’t need to consider in residential architecture.

Commercial architects need to cater to the public and understand how large groups use communal spaces while maximising functionality, comfort, and safety for everyone who enters the building.

In addition, the architect must respond to the aesthetic and logistical restrictions of working with specific organisations and industries.

Many corporate institutions will have branding requirements that must be included in designs. Health and safety requirements will also be included in the design of buildings for healthcare institutions.

With so many factors at play in commercial design, and each project requiring its own unique requirements, it is no wonder the process of commercial design is so detailed and extensive.

Let’s explore the essential elements of successful commercial design in 6 simple steps, so you can better understand what to expect and how to make the most of the experience.

The Architectural Design Process in 6 Simple Steps

The architectural commercial design process is the foundation of every commercial project, from project management to seamless execution.

Architects are key figures in any design project. They play a crucial role in every step from beginning to end, so their responsibility and impact should not be underestimated.

While every individual architect's design process is unique to them, there are several essential phases you can expect from any commercial design process.

1. Pre-Design Phase

This initial phase sets the project in motion. Architects will dig into their research, liaising with their client to get an understanding of the size and scale of the project, the location and its surroundings, and to get a grasp of expectations and projections for the building.

The architect will begin space planning, land zoning, and business zoning for the site, and create estimations for the cost and timeframe of the project. Architects in South Africa will need to work within the land zoning laws concerning environmental protection and commercial space development.

All the logistics must be figured out before they can move on to design concepts and proposals.

2. Schematic Design Phase: Design Proposal

Once the pre-design phase is complete, the architect can move on to the design proposal. This is when they bring their client’s vision to life by generating a personalised and curated design concept for the project.

They use their professional experience and expertise to draft detailed drawings and 3D renderings of the floor plans for the entire building. Architects also factor in structural and mechanical considerations, electrical and plumbing, and other necessary systems during the schematic design phase.

3. Design Development Phase