Tag: commercial development

Commercial Construction in 2021

The residential housing market isn’t the only sector of real estate that has transformed over the past year. 

Commercial real estate has undergone a lot of changes, in part because businesses are rethinking how much commercial space they need after many employees have adapted to working from home. 

If you are considering opening a commercial space in the next year, consider the following:

Look for High-Demand Locations

If your business is dependent on consumers, make sure you are keeping your search in locations that are in high-demand. Consumers are already in these places, making your business easy to get to. 

High-demand areas attract other businesses as well, naturally creating more traffic (and business) than areas that are becoming vacant.

Repurposing a Building vs. New Construction

If you are deciding between repurposing an old building and new construction, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of each. 

Adaptive reuse projects can often be completed faster and cheaper than building new. Like we stated above, however, you will want to take location into consideration, as well as the needs specific to your business. 

Low Interest Rates

Low interest rates extend into the commercial sector for those who own their commercial building. Low rates equal less interest paid over the course of a loan, saving a significant amount of money. 

New Features

Consider what features are important to your business, your employees, and your clients. Many businesses are finding value in an increase in outdoor air ventilation, more space for distancing, and other measures specific to people’s health. 

Are you looking for a new commercial space?

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Horton Group Showcases MHK’s New Office at 350 Goose Lane

MHK is the newest addition to 350 Goose Lane!

The new office for MHK, which is part of the Hearst Health network, takes up levels one and two of Building C, for a total of 14,450 square feet of space. 

New Layout for Changing Times

Horton Group worked closely with MHK to ensure the layout of the office would ensure safety as people return back to the office. Prior layout designs were altered to solve space configuration needs. The final design includes workspaces to benefit employees now and in the future. 

“They were involved every step of the way,” stated Horton Group President Kenny Horton. “We wanted to ensure their layout allowed for proper distancing and a healthy workplace.”

Kenny Horton

Take a look at how the office came out!

  • A welcoming entrance.
  • Conference rooms vary in size for meetings and collaborating. Here is a smaller meeting area.
  • Most conference rooms have TVs for shared presentations and virtual meetings.
  • A larger conference room, with plenty of space to spread out.
  • There are also various private offices with glass walls large windows for an open feel.
  • Desks that allow for privacy and employee safety.
  • A view of floor 2.
  • There are two kitchen and dining areas for lunch and breaks.
  • Kitchen area 1.
  • Kitchen area 2.

MHK office space incorporates meeting rooms of varying sizes for collaboration, desk configurations that allow for distancing, and ample windows and glass walls for natural light. 

350 Goose Lane Office Park

350 Goose Lane Office Park is an ongoing development consisting of three buildings on a professional campus. MHK joins Bank of America Merrill Lynch, the Stone Agency, and American Cruise Lines, among other local businesses inside the Office Park. 

Set on 16 acres, 350 Goose Lane Office Park was once Wilber & King Nursery. Horton Group has maintained the integrity of the former site, with beautifully landscaped green space, pond views from every building, and a courtyard with access for all tenants. The campus includes ample parking for all three buildings and is conveniently located off I-95, with easy access to the train station in Guilford. 

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Office Design Trends for 2021

office design trends

It seems like everything has changed this year, including the spaces we work in. While some continue to work remotely, others have headed back to their place of employment.  

Businesses have adapted to the changing times, implementing new protocols to keep their employees healthy at the office. However, all of this leads to the question: 

How will office design trends change?

With two new commercial build projects happening in 2021, we’re excited to create office and retail spaces for a diverse range of tenants, all the while keeping in mind function and safety. 

Below are some ways we expect commercial design to change: 

Layout

An open office design is popular among many companies. An open layout uses floorspace more efficiently than multiple walls and doors, but it also means people are working closer together. 

Some designers believe the open office layout will begin to fade, though others disagree. 

“There’s a lot of benefit to spending time near daylight and fresh air, and an open plan facilitates that,” said Kevin Van Den Wymelenbery, Director of the Institute for Health in the Built Environment.

Those who want to keep the open feel, ensuring there is ample space between workspaces is a great place to start. Another option is to install glass walls or tall plexiglass dividers to help create separate work areas. 

Airflow

No matter the layout, airflow is one of the most critical factors of new commercial space design. With the right HVAC system, increased outdoor airflow and filtered air improve indoor air quality for all. Rather than circulating air in the room, new systems will pull exhaled air out of the room and push in filtered air. 

Surface Finishes

Construction materials, especially those used for shared surface area, may also begin to change. Germ-resistant materials that prevent the growth of viruses, bacteria, and mold can help stop the spread of all infectious diseases. In addition, touchless technology will continue to see a rise for doors, elevators, and bathroom fixtures. 

As we get ready to work with client for these new spaces, we’re excited to incorporate new design trends to make every space functional and safe for all!

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Horton Group Project Recap

As the holiday season gets underway, we can’t help but look back on the past year. Amid the challenges and unforeseen circumstances, we’ve witnessed incredible things happening in our community.

Small businesses exceeding expectations to meet the needs of the people they serve. 

Individuals going above and beyond to help others. 


The Horton Group team working together to provide the very best service to our clients. 

Every year, we’re grateful for the work we do, and this year, we feel even more honored to be helping people feel at home. 

As we move into 2021, here are some updates on our current projects:

The Residences at 66 High Street

The Social Redesign is completing a unit at 66 High Street! Nicole White, along with designer Mary Ellen Sullivan and the Horton Group team, is working on completing the newest unit in the Leete Building. The best part? You get a say in the final design of the unit! If you haven’t been following along, visit The Social Redesign on Facebook and Instagram for your chance to vote. 

In addition to new units being completed, outdoor living spaces are also coming to fruition. The pool is in at 66 High Street! Residents will be able to enjoy an inground pool overlooking the Long Island Sound come summer. We can’t wait!

Overland Lofts

The Overland Lofts is now leasing units! This project with Davenport Companies has been an exciting project. From a Willys-Overland factory to residential lofts with commercial space, this historic building is part of the Springfield, Massachusetts revitalization project. The Overland Lofts include 60 market-rate apartments, retail space, and dog park, and more!

Coming in 2021

We’re excited about a new project happening in 2021! Stay tuned for more details on this commercial space in Branford, as well as other residential and commercial development projects.

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What is Transit-Oriented Development?

With a pressing need for sustainable metropolitan and suburban growth, a trend toward transit-oriented development, or TOD, has become increasingly popular among planners and developers. Particularly in the United States, where most people are reliant on automobiles, TOD can help create more sustainable communities.

What is Transit-Oriented Development?

Transit-oriented development is a mixed-use development that includes commercial, residential, office, and entertainment properties. The development is also located near a transit station for easy access to transportation.

When successfully designed, TODs bring together people, activities, living space, and public space. Walking paths, cycling lanes, and easy access to transit services eliminates the need for daily vehicles and increases nearby resources for residents. 

Benefits of Transit-Oriented Development

TOD can positively impact lifestyle, the environment, and economic factors. Here are some of the benefits of transit-oriented development, according to the Transit-Oriented Development Institute: 

  • Reduce dependence on driving
  • Allow residents to live, work, and play in the same area
  • Reduce the area’s negative impact on the environment
  • Provide access to better life services
  • Stimulate the local economy
  • Provide better access between urban and suburban areas
  • Provide access to better entertainment and recreational services
  • Provide access to better jobs
  • Revitalize urban areas

Is Transit-Oriented Development only for large cities?

Trends toward TOD extend beyond the urban center. In cities, TOD can provide more affordable housing and connect people to resources in the area. In Springfield, Massachusetts, the Overland Lofts is a part of the revitalization efforts of the city, providing market-rate housing and commercial space downtown.

Development in suburban towns can play an integral role in building a more vibrant, safe, and sustainable community. The Residences at 66 High Street are located in the heart of Downtown Guilford and are only a half-mile from the Shoreline East Train Station. Residents love being a part of a larger community, the ability to walk to shops and restaurants, and easy access to the train station. 

What lifestyle factors are essential for your next move? Let us know in the comments!

 

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Design-Build vs. Design-Bid-Build

You decided to build.

Do you know what type of build process you want to commit to?

Beyond choosing the right builder, you need to understand how the builder will complete the scope of work. Two methods are design-build and design-bid-build. We go over the differences between these two processes below. 

Design-Build

With design-build, the owner signs just one contract with the builder (or project manager).

Often, design-build companies have their own team to handle all aspects of the project, including design, construction, and all trades. With this type of construction process, the owner has one point of contact, making it easier to communicate. 

The contractor can also hire subcontractors for trades as needed, though they resume all responsibility for the finished project, cost, and schedule. 

Design-Bid-Build

Design-bid-build is the more traditional model in construction. Design and construction are handled by two different companies, with two separate contracts. 

Where does the bidding come in?

First, the design team works to complete a set of construction documents for the project. From there, various contractors can submit bids for the project. Usually, the work goes to the lowest bidder. This can help to ensure the cost of construction will stay low. When communication between all parties is strong, this process is effective. 

When completing new construction, it is most important to feel comfortable with who you are working with. From there, you can discuss the type of building process that best fits your needs. 

 

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Signs your Commercial Space is ready for a Remodel

Your office sets the tone for your business. The physical space you work in each day can either add to productivity and climate or detract from it. Just like your home, an office needs to be well-maintained and updated throughout the years. Below are five signs that it’s time to remodel your commercial space. 

Employees are Distracted

Employees spend a large portion of their day inside the office. The work environment should cater to their comfort and productivity. Elements like green space, collaborative meeting areas, and an efficient floor plan can help set the tone for a dynamic office.

If employees are dealing with issues such as poor lighting or a leaky faucet in the bathroom, they will become distracted from the tasks at hand.  In short, the office should assist, rather than get in the way of employees’ work. Even seemingly small issues are a signal to consider remodeling. 

Outdated Technology

If the technology in the office is outdated, chances are everything is obsolete. Any technology being used by employees should keep up with the demands of their work. Determine what is proficient and upgrade the rest. 

No Space

Are you squeezing in more people and furniture into the same space your business started in? Businesses grow over the years. It can get quite uncomfortable working if you feel crowded. Take a look at the current floor plan to determine if you need to rearrange the space, expand, or move into a new office. 

Deterioration of Furniture

Depending on how many people use the furniture in the office will signal how long it will last. From couches to desks to chairs, make a note of the condition of the furniture. 

Meetings take place Outside of the Office

When you schedule meetings with prospective clients or employees, do you invite them to meet you in the office or a nearby coffee shop? If you are not proud to welcome people into your office, it’s time for some upgrades. 

Once you decide it is time for a remodel, the possibilities for a modern and productive work environment are endless. 

 

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How Drones are Changing Construction Sites

Drones are becoming increasingly popular at construction sites. These small, easy-to-maneuver cameras are controlled from a remote on the ground. They are proving to be useful during every stage of construction, from mapping out a worksite to monitoring safety and timelines. 

Construction sites are large areas where a lot of people and machinery are coming in and out daily. Missing even one detail on the job could cause complications for weeks. Communication, attention to detail, and timeliness are essential to making sure a build happens correctly and on schedule. Drones are being used on construction sites to aid in the process. 

Design and Pre-Construction

When planning to build on a new site, it is necessary to survey the land and prepare plans for the build. Drones quickly and accurately survey the job site. This cuts out surveying tools and human error, which means drones can save both time and money in the initial stages on construction.

In addition to surveying, drone photography gives a clear birds-eye view of the land, which you can use to map out the site. Project managers can then use this real data and merge it with the virtual design of the project. This can help owners visualize the project, making it a useful tool when bidding on a project or explaining your vision to your client. 

During Construction

During construction, drones can collect data to see the progress of the build. Again, this can be useful when meeting with clients to discuss the phase of development. In addition, it helps the project manager to stay on track with the schedule. 

When equipped with streaming video, drones make it possible for the project manager to monitor the work site from another location. Management can instantly communicate needs based on video happening in real-time. This decreases delays that occur when workers need an answer, or a project manager notices an issue that needs to be resolved. Video streaming with drones also allows managers to track materials on the site and acts as a 24-hour surveillance system, keeping the worksite safer. 

Inspections

Rigorous inspections can be done almost instantly with drones. These small flying cameras can fit pretty much anywhere, without the need for workers to climb to the roof or below ground. Flying a drone to one of these hard-to-reach areas of the structure saves time, gives a close-up view, and eliminates safety concerns.

Project Completion

Once the project is complete, drone photography and video can show a timelapse of the build from start to finish (as long as the entire project was streamed). Giving your client aerial views of the full project can help with marketing and show the entire site in one photograph. 

Drones, along with other advanced technology, continues to change the construction industry, helping to make worksites safer and more efficient.

 

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Access and Security in Commercial Buildings

Access and Security for commercial buildings

Commercial buildings, especially those with multiple tenants, have people coming in and out all day long. Access needs to be convenient for clients and customers, while security needs to be a top priority for all involved.

With technology and multiple options, both access and security can be achieved in any commercial building.

Locks

Upgraded locks are essential for security for both small and large commercial spaces. This can consist of a regular key and lock, or a key fob, which allows access through a small hardware device. If you are in a building with a front entrance, find out what type of lock secures the front, as well as your specific office space. At 350 Goose Lane Office Park, the front entrance of the buildings require a key fob to get in the building after hours, and individual tenants have either a traditional key or key fob access to their own office.

Surveillance Cameras

Surveillance cameras provide security when monitored correctly. By installing surveillance cameras to cover entry points, exits, and common areas, and monitoring the cameras regularly, tenants and those coming to the office will be getting an extra layer of security.

Security Guards

Depending on the size and use of the commercial development, security guards may be essential. This can come in the form of a security booth you check in at as you drive onto the property, guards circulating the grounds and buildings, or both.

Another option is utilizing virtual security guards with a remote video monitoring service. Virtual monitoring services can be set up at any location in or outside of your commercial building.  When a suspicious incident is identified, the monitoring service can take steps to determine if it is a false alarm and contact law enforcement when necessary.

Access Control

Access control systems can help you authorize who can enter your building. Smart cards or key fobs are used to allow access into a building or office suite. This also allows for tracking who is in the building at different times throughout the day.

Safety is at the top of the priority list for business owners. Always know your options when you sign a lease and implement necessary security measures when moving to a new office space.

 

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The Benefits of Landscaping

Landscaping does more than just create beautiful curb appeal. Taking care of your property, whether a single-family residence, a condominium community, or a commercial development, has environmental, economic, and health benefits.

Environmental Benefits

Maintaining your lawn or property helps to protect you and the environment. Here are some of the ways landscaping helps the environment:

  • A lawn helps to control temperature extremes. In summer months, grass is cooler than pavement or cement, and trees that provide shade help cool down the property and home even more.
  • Grass helps to capture dust and pollutants and produces oxygen, keeping the air we breathe cleaner.
  • Pollutants and storm runoff are reduced when healthy lawns absorb water, which reduces local flooding and keeps polluted water out of larger bodies of water.

Economic Benefits

Along with helping the environment, a well-cared for property has economic benefits for homeowners and business owners alike:

  • Curb appeal is the first thing people notice when looking to buy a home. A beautiful property can increase the value of your home and reduce the time your property is on the market.
  • Residents of apartment complexes or condominiums are likely to pay more to live in a complex with grounds that are well cared for. HOA fees generally take care of landscaping, which means residents can enjoy the benefits of the property without having to care for it themselves.
  • In commercial spaces, green space encourages shoppers to spend more time at the development and increases property values.

Health Benefits

Landscaping also positively impacts health, both at home and work environments.

  • By filtering pollutants, landscaping helps to clean to the air.
  • In workplaces, landscaped areas help to decrease stress and increase positive mood, even if just looking out a window.
  • A well-planned property can provide privacy and a beautiful environment where you can spend time with loved ones.

With warmer weather approaching, now is the time to get started on your landscaping, so that you can enjoy the benefits of the outdoors for the next several months.

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