Of course, we all know that “necessity is the mother of invention.” COVID-19 has certainly caused a need for new or redeveloped commercial space that reduces the transmission and health risks of COVID-19 and potential future viruses and bacteria. In addition, with the realization during the pandemic that people can work as effectively remotely, commercial building owners must be able to demonstrate why a centralized office setting is still critical for growth. Therefore, several New York City developers are currently addressing these issues with newly constructed or redeveloped spaces or buildings soon to hit the market.
One example is combining buildings to give tenants more space to spread staff out to allow social distancing. This example will also invest in enlarging elevator banks and elevators, as that is seen as a bottleneck in terms of office employees getting to their desks. Traditionally-sized elevators can be ideal for virus/bacteria transmission, so larger ones are needed. Additional changes being implemented include larger stairwells, individual washrooms, and outdoor terraces.
Another example is the renovation of an old retail store to an office complex that will host a school to train young people in the high-tech skills of the tenants elsewhere in the building. Staff can assist in training without leaving the building. Entering this building will be a touchless experience with personal phone apps signaling the elevators needed to get to the right location.
Another item that developers are considering and instituting is additional bicycle parking and showers, anticipating the biking trend will continue after the return to “normal”.
Another item being instituted is the return to something seen in old buildings and that is every floor having and operating its own heating and air conditioning system so that no air is circulated with other floors to temper spread of viruses. The trend of the last few decades of centralized air circulation may be ending. Each tenant is free to add MERV filters or a bipolar ionization system if they wish.
Another potential trend is the “groundscaper”, a low-to-the-ground building that stretches an entire block to minimize time in elevators and spread staff out on the same floor for easier communication.
CCES is not an architectural firm or construction contractor, but we have the experts to help your firm assess the climate change and sustainability factors and optimize them for your benefit, including reducing your carbon footprint and improving worker satisfaction and productivity. Contact us today at karell@CCESworld.com or at 914-584-6720.