Master planning establishes a cohesive vision for a site, neighborhood, or city district. Accounting for land use, infrastructure, and zoning regulations, it outlines potential building projects and sets overarching design guidelines.
While buildings serve a functional purpose for their occupants, their impact extends beyond their walls. When combined with thoughtful urban planning, architecture can create destinations, contribute to community identity, and foster connections between people and the places they share. This process is known as placemaking.
For commercial and residential developers, higher-density, mixed-use buildings present many practical benefits and opportunities. Integrating retail, living, work, and entertainment into a cohesive package, the approach can maximize development and activate urban areas with various tenants.
The goal of any developer is to achieve a return on investment. While approaches differ across projects, one of the most common ways to improve a building’s profitability is to increase its height—especially in competitive urban markets.
A commercial building is a significant investment with long-term cost implications, and improving performance and lowering energy costs should be key design goals. In Iowa, one way to improve performance is by taking advantage of the Commercial New Construction Program.
A mechanical system is a major investment. Initial costs can make up a significant portion of a construction budget, and heating and cooling are some of the greatest long-term expenses of building ownership. Your choice also has a direct impact on occupant comfort and your carbon emissions.
Multifamily and mixed-use developments are one of the fastest-growing sectors in the building industry. In 2022, multifamily housing accounted for 34% of all new residential construction—the highest annual total since the 1980s.
A building is a long-term investment. Although construction costs may be top of mind during the architectural process, it’s important to remember the costs of maintenance, utilities, and replacements.
Mental health issues are rising on university campuses. Over the last six years, the number of students reporting anxiety symptoms increased from 17% to 31%, according to a recent study by the Healthy Minds Network.
Many factors influence design decisions—including budget constraints, zoning regulations, site conditions, and sustainability goals. In addition to these factors, you and your architect will consider the needs of occupants and their ability to access the building with ease.
