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Commercial Construction Trends for 2021

Sep 14, 2021

Last year was a wild ride in the building industry. After pandemic-related closures and material shortages, project lists are now growing with the economy bouncing back. Weaver Commercial Contractor (WCC) remains focused on delivering value-driven solutions to our customers – some of which come from trending technologies, materials or other strategic approaches to construction.

With a vast commercial portfolio, we also recognize that not every building decision should be made based on current industry trends (in fact, we might have renovated a few spaces to cover up those that didn’t age well). But at Weaver, we’re already incorporating some key commercial construction trends into our process. Here are several trends to watch unfold in 2021 and beyond.

Designing

Design technology is an obvious trend expectation as it continues to evolve and enhance the industry. But don’t underestimate the need for good design itself as a foundation. Finding a contractor to execute your vision probably isn’t a challenge, but securing an expert designer/builder who actually listens to your organization’s needs and creates a facility to meet them, can be.

WCC uses a “design-build” approach and works with you from the beginning design phase through completion. Instead of bidding on a design created by another party, WCC customers benefit from single-source accountability that cuts out the middleman. We use our industry-specific experience to your advantage by helping you maximize the functionality of your design and finding cost-saving alternatives. Our 3D renderings show customers what their building will look like, both inside and out, to eliminate any confusion and provide an opportunity to request changes well before construction even begins. It’s a streamlined approach that allows us to foresee potential concerns and make changes early on when the conventional bid approach would add extra delays to your project by going back to a third-party to draw up a new design.

Metal Buildings

Metal building systems are popular in commercial construction because they are durable yet attractive and energy efficient. These systems also are cost effective for both building and maintenance.

For these and other reasons, the Metal Building Manufacturers Association says that metal shipments to its members have steadily increased over the past few years. They expect metal building systems to continue increasing in market share for commercial office buildings, retail, and governmental facilities (while maintaining its existing popularity with industrial facilities and warehouses).

WCC is certainly on board with this trend. We found a spot on the Top 100 Metal Builder List in the May 2019 issue of Metal Construction News (58th for Top Metal Builders by Tonnage). From food processing to manufacturing to ministry, you’ll find several examples of completed metal building projects on our website.

BIM

Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology replaces CAD drawings and moves the building process into a virtual space. Infrastructure project growth and increasing adoption rates lead experts to predict that the tech trend will reach an estimated $9 billion by 2025.

While 3D renderings help show clients the finished spaces, BIM shows the concealed mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing, fire suppression, etc.) within the ceilings, floors, and walls. This helps multiple parties working on the project understand how these systems fit into the building structure and interact with each other, avoiding potential conflicts before construction begins. It reduces costly changes which negatively impact both the client’s budget and their schedule.

Keeping the Timeline

It’s disappointing that keeping the timeline is a trend in business, but not all commercial building contractors do it. After a year of supply chain delays and increased demand, keeping projects on time can be a challenge, but it’s important for customers who’ve already waited an extended period of time.

WCC combats timeline issues with Construction Manager At Risk, a cost-effective and time-conscious alternative to the traditional design-bid-build process. CM at risk allows the client to choose the CM before the design stage is complete so they may identify budget challenges and supply or other issues early in the process to avoid setbacks later. Usually, they select someone loyal to their organization, and may even rely on their repeat business. The CM at risk centralizes the operation under a single contract and provides the client with a guaranteed maximum price. The client maintains a separate architect/engineer (A/E) relationship but the CM and A/E work together to execute the design.

This collaborative process enhances the working relationship and it motivates the CM to keep subcontractors –and ultimately the project – moving. Working with a CM at risk can reduce design changes, elevate the quality of construction, improve communication, speed up the schedule and solidify cost expectations.

Environment

Green design and construction is the trend that keeps on trending. Despite savings in the long run, environmentally friendly materials still land in a higher price range, which makes them more of a luxury. Still, as sustainable materials become more mainstream, and other sustainable technologies grow, so will material affordability.

Regardless, contractors almost have an obligation to create environmentally efficient buildings. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) says buildings consume almost 40% of the total U.S. energy consumption and generate 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. Contractors can help improve these metrics with more sustainable design/build practices and energy conservation efforts, including:

Renovating existing buildings into new facilities
Improving construction site practices to assist the environment
Reducing building material waste and separating recyclable materials (even food containers from employee lunches)
Enhancing indoor acoustics and air quality to save operational energy
Installing solar panels and/or maximizing use of natural light

Green buildings deliver human benefits as well. Employees in green buildings report 30% less headaches and respiratory problems. Mental health and productivity also improves when daylight gets incorporated into the design.

Get more Trends and Commercial Ideas from Weaver

Weaver Commercial Contractor designs, builds, and renovates commercial buildings for a wide variety of industries. Between understanding each industry’s needs and incorporating the unique needs of your project, we also apply commercial construction trends into a building plan that is tailor made for you.

Contact us today to discuss your upcoming project and learn more about how Weaver Commercial Contractor is the solid partner you need.

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Building the Backbone: WCC's Expertise in Industrial and Warehouse Construction

By ahusted agency • 24 Apr, 2024

Industrial and warehouse facilities play a vital role in local and global supply chains. They are the lifeblood for many businesses. As such, having a quality warehouse space is vital for your business’s success. As a leader in industrial and warehouse construction, WCC can help your organization accomplish its manufacturing and supply chain goals. Understanding Industrial Construction Challenges Industrial construction can be surprisingly complex. Depending on the industry involved, a facility may need to meet compliance standards for health, safety, and environmental regulations. At the same time, facilities must have scalability, durability, and operational efficiency. WCC uses innovative design and construction practices to meet and exceed these essential standards. Tailored Solutions for Complex Needs Manufacturing, logistics, and distribution can look very different between industries. Industrial clients typically can’t go with a “one size fits all” approach, which is why WCC applies custom construction solutions tailored to the unique needs of each client. Doing so maximizes productivity, efficiency, and safety once the facility is in operation. WCC’s Industrial and Warehouse Success Stories WCC has undertaken a wide variety of industrial and warehouse projects, consistently delivering high-quality results for our clients. For example, we built four buildings for Venture Products’ Ventrac Manufacturing headquarters, with corporate offices, manufacturing and distribution facilities, and even an automated painting system. As Mark Steiner, Venture Products Vice President and Facilities Manager stated, “They have a qualified staff that worked hard to understand our needs and to show us options that we might wish to incorporate into our facility. It was important that I be able to work closely with them on several aspects of the project, where we, as the owner, would also work as one of the subcontractors. This relationship worked out very successfully with all WCC projects completed on schedule and finished under budget.” With a proven track record of overcoming the complexities of industrial and warehouse construction, WCC is an excellent option for your next building project. Our team’s commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction is sure to deliver a building that meets your organization’s needs. Contact us to get started.

Flexibility by Design: WCC's Vision for Multipurpose Spaces in Modern Construction

By ahusted agency • 17 Apr, 2024

There is a growing demand for multipurpose spaces in both the commercial and public sectors. While the exact nature of these buildings can vary, Weaver Commercial Contractor’s status as a pioneer in the design and construction of flexible, multi-use buildings makes us well-suited for these projects. The Evolution of Space Utilization Space design and utilization have evolved substantially over the years. It used to be that a single building would have just one purpose. But, as time has gone by, changes in work, lifestyle, and community needs have resulted in many projects requiring greater flexibility and adaptability – primarily by being able to be used for multiple functions. Our changing world makes multipurpose spaces essential for many organizations. Principles of Flexible Design When WCC takes on a multipurpose project, we focus on the key principles of versatility, sustainability, and user-centric design. Quite simply, no two multipurpose projects are exactly alike because each organization must consider its own unique needs. To achieve successful outcomes, the desired functions of the space and the needs of the people who use it must come first. Smart building systems and modular construction are just two examples of technological innovations that are helping us put these principles into action. Showcasing WCC’s Multipurpose Projects WCC has been involved in multipurpose projects in retail, ministry, and other areas, bringing our expertise to a diverse range of buildings. For example, our work for LifeSpring Community Christian Church went well beyond a sanctuary, with additional spaces like a cafe, children’s play area, offices, and more – all with an expandable building design. Pastor Jeff Dueler gave high praise to our team, saying, “You didn't just build an amazing product, you did it with integrity and grace." With flexibility a more important part of modern construction than ever, WCC’s expertise in delivering multipurpose spaces catered to your unique needs can be a true difference-maker. With our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and client satisfaction, you can have confidence that your project will be a success. Talk to us to learn more.

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Mastering Complex Construction: WCC’s Approach to Large-Scale Commercial Projects

26 Feb, 2024

While some aspects of construction remain the same regardless of the scope of the project, there is no denying that large-scale commercial construction work has unique intricacies and challenges. Working with a team that can handle more complex construction work is an absolute must — and WCC is up to the task. Navigating Complexities in Large Projects The biggest challenges associated with large-scale construction often come down to a matter of scale. Areas such as logistical coordination, resource management, and timeline adherence can become surprisingly challenging for projects that require large quantities of materials and manpower. As a design-build contractor, WCC is able to account for these needs beginning at the design and planning stages, ensuring that we navigate these issues in a streamlined, collaborative manner. Case Studies of WCC’s Major Projects WCC has taken on a wide variety of large-scale commercial projects over the years. For example, for MFS Supply in Solon, OH, we raised an 18’ clear height roof to a 32’ clear height for an 82,000 square foot warehouse. We’ve built a 94,584 square foot FedEx Ground Distribution Center in Canton, OH, as well as a 46,825 square foot multi-retail venue space for LincWay in Orrville, OH. A broad range of experiences makes our team uniquely suited for large-scale projects. Client Perspectives on Large-Scale Projects Don’t take our word for it. Consider this perspective from Mark Steiner, Vice President and Facilities Manager at Venture Products, for whom we built a 373,000 square foot facility for Ventrac Manufacturing Headquarters: “This is the third large commercial project of a design-build nature that I have worked with WCC. They have a qualified staff that worked hard to understand our needs and to show us options that we might wish to incorporate into our facility. It was important that I be able to work closely with them on several aspects of the project, where we, as the owner, would also work as one of the subcontractors. This relationship worked out very successfully with all WCC projects completed on schedule and finished under budget.” A solid foundation of construction expertise and experience in handling large-scale commercial construction are essential for achieving successful project outcomes. WCC’s proven track record in this area ensures that you can move forward with confidence as you plan your next project.

Innovative Design & Build Solutions in Commercial Construction

19 Feb, 2024

Design-build construction has become a trendy phrase in the construction industry lately — but it’s important to understand what this actually means for your commercial construction project. Quite simply, design-build is when both design work and construction work are performed by the same contractor. It’s an approach we love at WCC, and it’s one that can offer significant advantages for your project. Advantages of Design-Build Approach Working with the same contractor for design and construction has several inherent advantages. Because the designers and builders are part of the same team, this streamlines processes and improves collaboration. Communication is improved as everyone works as a cohesive group to solve problems and achieve the best results. This approach can also lower costs and make it easier to meet project timelines. At WCC, this single source of accountability enables us to use our industry-specific knowledge to maximize your building’s functionality and find cost-saving solutions. WCC’s Unique Design-Build Projects With decades of industry experience, WCC has worked on a wide range of commercial projects, helping businesses plan for current needs and future growth. From multi-retail venues and banks to our own office additions, we’ve tackled many unique projects that have helped us strengthen our collaborative skills and overall process. For example, for Casa di Sassi’s manufacturing headquarters in Apple Creek, OH, we helped design and build a 48,400 square foot manufacturing and warehouse facility with four docks, aggregate bins and silos, and an exterior product staging/viewing area, as well as a maintenance shop and break room. Client Feedback Whether using us for design-build or on a project that already has its own architect, our clients love our work! This is what Matt Miller, senior vice president of First Federal Community Bank said about working with WCC: “We highly recommend WCC. They made the project seamless, smooth and stress-free. They are a group of building professionals that are even better people. We highly recommend them. We had a great experience. We know that you will too.” With our extensive industry expertise, you can rely on WCC for your next design-build project. We are committed to quality every step of the way to ensure that the final result is something you can be proud of for years to come.

Building for Healthcare: WCC’s Expertise in Medical Facility Construction

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