1652191744710 B 0212 Facilities Cost1

Facility Management Cost Trends: Office Build-Outs

Jan. 23, 2012
Comparative Building Costs: Office Build-Outs

LEED Platinum office #1
This two-story building, home to an insurance company, capitalizes on daylighting with the use of glass walls. The partitions provide acoustical privacy but permit light to flow throughout the office.

To reduce operating expenses, the 2,200-square-foot space includes high-efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, a vegetative roof that adds extra insulation and reduces the cooling load, and a water reclamation system to flush toilets and urinals.

LEED Platinum office #2
This two-story structure, which houses a business consulting firm, boasts a shaded wrap-around balcony that provides views of the surrounding wooded area. The 4,100-square-foot space features 9-foot ceiling heights and welcomes daylight into the space while still ensuring privacy for clients.

The building’s operating costs are lower than the average due to its high-efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, a vegetative roof that boosts the insulation value and reduces the cooling load, and a water reclamation system to flush toilets and urinals.

Non-LEED office #1
This 5,300-square-foot build-out for a reserve studies provider is located in a historic building designed in 1912. The architect picked a color palette that reflects typical color schemes of the early 1910s. The mezzanine level allows easy access for clients and mobility for staff. The floor plan fills the long, narrow space with open, low workstations with views of the Milwaukee River.

The build-out increases communication and efficiency among the staff, who previously occupied multiple floors and suites in a nearby office building.

Non-LEED office #2
This 3,100-square-foot office sits on the second floor of an 18-screen IMAX entertainment theater, office, and retail complex. The layout combines high-end custom maple hardwood, curved obscure glass, sliding glass, and pod entryways with 5/8-inch and 1/2-inch reveals, requiring unique installation processes.

The space includes a state-of-the-art conference room for motion picture previews and a dining area decorated with movie posters. Windows divided by wood mullions from mid-way to ceiling and 12-foot ceiling heights give the office an open feeling.

SOURCE: DESIGN COST DATA, BNI
*Actual building costs have been adjusted to reflect materials prices as of January 2012. 

About the Author

Janelle Penny | Editor-in-Chief at BUILDINGS

Janelle Penny has been with BUILDINGS since 2010. She is a two-time FOLIO: Eddie award winner who aims to deliver practical, actionable content for building owners and facilities professionals.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations