Today’s business spaces are filled beyond capacity, even during slower seasons. However, with advances in technology and the quest for business owners to maximize space, there is always a solution to any kind of space constraint issue. For instance, mezzanines are often used to increase usable office spaces without the need to move business operations to larger office spaces. A well-designed mezzanine can allow your business to save rent, unnecessary moving costs, and even property taxes.
But how do you design a functional mezzanine? Well, here are a few tips that you can leverage:
Understand its function
You need to establish beforehand what you will be using the mezzanine floor builders Melbourne for. Is it going to a storeroom, a work area, a kitchen, or library? Ensure that space and other architectural factors are suitable for the intended function. If it is smaller than expected, you better think of other functions for it.
Height And Structural Support Capacity
Besides the available space, it is critical to establish whether the slab floor has the capacity for your mezzanine. If you aren’t sure about its capacity, conduct a slab and soil analysis. In case your slab cannot support a structural mezzanine, you need to integrate special footings. Additionally, the function of your mezzanine may also influence the design and column loads.
Will you be using stairwells and handrails?
To access your mezzanine space, you need stairwells or handrails. If it is accessible to the public, then it must meet certain code requirements for stairwells, stairways, stair extensions, and guardrail spacing. On the other hand, if you are going to use the mezzanine space for storage purposes—and will not be accessible to the public—then different sets of building codes will apply. To be sure, check the code enforcement in your state for comprehensive details.
Work within your budget
Most mezzanine floor builders Melbourne has to offer will charge you based on the size of your mezzanine, the type of flooring, design requirements and a host of other factors. So, set a budget before you contact any builder. Don’t focus too much on saving because mezzanine floors provide great value for money in the long term. It will save you the cost of business disruption, renting a bigger space, or purchasing a new property.
There you have it; 4 vital factors to consider if you want to design a functional mezzanine. Most importantly, remember that before you consider the design, you should always establish whether or not the building can accommodate a mezzanine, which implies that it should have enough space and high ceilings.
