Month: June 2025

Commercial Construction, Multi-Family Construction

Understanding the Pre-Construction Process

The first step, or set of steps, for any commercial, multi-family, or residential project, is the pre-construction process. During the pre-construction phase, before construction begins, much of the planning and essential work happens. 

Usually pre-construction meetings take place involving the owner, project manager, architect, general contractor, and project manager.  During these meetings the following are often discussed and decided on.

Defining the scope of work, Design/Development: including scheduling necessary tests (soil tests, for example) or pulling required permits, understanding the overall objectives of the project.

Costs and Schedule Management: This covers scheduling of subcontractors, estimated and actual costs, managing timelines for the project, and understanding risk management. 

Team Assembly is crucial to any good project: having a reliable team in place, including subcontractors, vendors, designers, and assistants, can make all the difference. 

Site Prep like getting an area graded and utilities set up, and setting up temporary offices, bathroom facilities, etc are the last step before a project actually begins. This means we’re ready to get started with the physical work of your new construction or remodel project! 

Landscaping

Low Maintenance Commercial Landscaping ideas

When planning your commercial building project, don’t forget the landscaping! Without it, your building will still be beautiful and appropriately designed for your needs, but it won’t stand out. 

Adding landscaping to your project will soften its edges, provide a peaceful place for clients and employees, provide shelter and food for a variety of wildlife, and keep water and maintenance costs low

landscaping np 2
Choose native plants. This is the first step in ensuring your landscaping will be sustainable and easy to care for. Group plants together for easier watering. 
 
Consider perennial shrubs and flowers, like (for the Western Colorado area), Viburnums like Snowball bushes, Roses, Lavender, Tulips for early spring, Coral Bells, and Diablo Nine Bark.  
 
Ornamental grasses and wildflowers are great options as well as evergreen bushes and shrubs.
 
Next, consider hardscaping.  Adding stone pavers, decorative gravel, and mulch will give your landscaping interest without adding more plants and maintenance.
 
landscaping np 2-3

Automated irrigation will save money and time for you and your staff. Plants will get the water they need at a scheduled time each week (on multiple days, usually). This means healthy plants and no stress for your employees! 

Considerations for your low maintenance commercial landscaping: sun exposure, weather, and traffic. 

Know which plants will work best for various areas of your building. It may be best to choose shade-tolerant shrubs for some areas, while those that receive more sun are better for perennial flower beds or flowering shrubs.

Be aware of areas where snow will pile in winter (in parking lot medians or nearby sidewalk areas). You may want to consider just using decorative gravel in areas like this.

Similarly, consider foot and car traffic at your business. What will work for visibility, beauty, and ease for everyone using your space? 

Planning accordingly can lead to a beautiful outdoor space for your business, its employees, and clients too. 

Scroll to top