As we emerge from the pandemic and life returns to ‘normal’, few sectors of architecture are experiencing as much change as the commercial one. Shifts to the ways people work, both in their locations and in their preferences for the built environment, are inspiring some pretty drastic reappraisals of what constitutes a good commercial building.
And while our minds naturally gravitate towards the towering skyscrapers of our CBDs, spare a thought for the small commercial projects that are becoming increasingly important - and increasingly in demand - across the country. From retail to small offices, these spaces are becoming a focal point for new ideas and innovative solutions that capitalise on the opportunities presented by the current global context.
There are some challenges though - as with many smaller projects, the budgetary implications of a global economic slowdown are definitely being felt; and the changing nature of work and hybridity - as much as it is an opportunity - is also a conundrum for the architect looking to make a beautiful, but practical, space.
One thing is for certain though: it’s full steam ahead on the sustainability front for small commercial projects, and there are some distinctive trends emerging that look certain to define the coming months and years.
Resimercial design
While not specifically a sustainability trend, this one bears a mention because of its role in improving the adaptability of numerous smaller commercial projects. Designing workplaces that take cues from residential homes not only makes spaces more accommodating, but it also makes them more flexible, more versatile, and more readily usable for a wider variety of purposes than previously.
Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD)
Following on from resimercial design, where small commercial projects have outdoor spaces, WSUD is on the rise. This includes everything from aquaponic gardens to spaces that are informed by the natural geography using local stones and native grasses. Not only do outdoor spaces incorporating WSUD make a huge impact environmentally, but they also provide a much needed biophilic element to the workplace.
Natural light
It’s hard to overstate the importance of natural light in driving sustainability outcomes in this sector. Apart from the positive biophilic effects it has on occupants, natural light is increasingly being can be harnessed to reduce energy requirements and increase efficiency. Whether it’s a reduced need for artificial lighting or using the sun as a heating source with a thermal wall, natural light is illuminating small commercial projects across the country.
Bio-based material selection
While we’re unlikely to see small offices being constructed out of mud bricks, there’s an undeniable movement towards more locally sourced, environmentally sound material choices - both in construction and interior design. From earth walls to recycled timbers, furniture, and fabrics, architects are thinking outside the traditional small-commercial box to improve the sustainability profiles of their projects.
The small commercial sector will no doubt be one to watch as it continues to evolve and respond to the changing economic and environmental conditions of the world at large - and there’s little doubt we’ll see a slew of innovative sustainability solutions emerging over the next few years.
This year's Sustainability Awards will no doubt see projects submitted that adhere to these trends. For more information, visit sustainablebuildingawards.com.au.
