Quick and Handy Tips On Choosing Locations for Business

 

Getting into business involves many aspects. Aside from the concept, one has to consider the physical locations where to establish. Here is a young Architect Elmer Mamiit, a graduate of BS Architecture at Mapua Institute of Technology (MIT). The latter has done extensive works for many entrepreneurs. Hailing from a family of architects, Elmer is popularly known for his space-saving and out-of-the-box ideas. The Business Mentor sought out his tips and more on what to be on the lookout for.

The Place

 Architect Elmer: On scouting a place, shop, location, or stand-alone site, I recommend that you already have an Architect or Designer with you on the preliminary site oculars so that design details are checked beforehand based on your corporate branding standard requirements.  It might be too costly to implement on the client’s part if the existing space, detail stub-outs, and Utility actuals are not available. Or suited on the proposed/ intended store or business.

For an excellent or visible location, depending on the food business, it can be incorporated on a foot traffic basis of customers plying on that route or hallway. Heavy foot traffic is recommended;

It was restored and converted from an old, dilapidated house into a well-known Sulu Coffee chain called Dennis Coffee Garden situated in San Jose Zamboanga City.

Shape of Space

Architect Elmer: For easy planning, not-too-costly shape, rectangular is the best shape per our experience and is highly recommended; the square is second best, and circular might get you too costly for a fit-out. Irregular-shape plans might be expensive too for interior fit-out due to numerous walls and corners to deal with. Still, sometimes this kind of plan makes it an attractive program depending on the type of business.

Store Fronts

Architect Elmer:  usually, storefronts are given by the Lessor/Mall as per their own Design Guidelines, but as per the design of a specific type of business, we recommend out-of-the-box design and just have it approved by the design team of the lessor/Mall. If not approved, Compromise. They can give you suggestions on how to re-do the whole concept, not sacrificing the storefront design guidelines of the mall and your own corporate branding, standard, and design.

Floors Walls and Ceilings

Architect Elmer: Check for appropriate durable materials. Do not splurge on the material concept sacrificing cost. There is always an alternative material that will be cheaper, more durable, and would define your shop’s character.

A space utilized for a Fiorgelato International located in International departure NAIA Terminal 3

Utility Systems

Architect Elmer: Check for: 

-Electrical: The system of a Mall or place is not always 240V. Check availability of power load, especially the existing stub, out if the Main Breaker is sufficient enough to power up your store;

-Mechanicals and Sanitary: These utilities might sometimes be tricky. Assure always that the space or location you get is well planned for This Utilities to

Incorporate on the plans. Design Guidelines of the Mall or Place will be a BIG help in deciding what utility to use and what is appropriate to your design.

Sometimes clients tend to get the lowest bid of charge. making sure they get a reasonable price for their money but not knowing sacrificing the quality and standards of the construction /renovation.-COST: Certainly, we need a reasonable cost, not an expensive, too expensive fit-out/renovation cost but a well-planned, well-designated cost for all materials, equipment, and labor.

Recommendations:

      1.  Know your materials, what you really need, what should really be, and when required.

      2.  Get an Architect. An architect should know what, when, and how it should or will be done for you. They should be of help and not of a burden to you.

Safety Requirements

Architect Elmer: The mall or space should also provide safety requirements; There Utility is costly if there are no stub-outs on the area. ALWAYS refer to the Design Guidelines of the MALL or space before planning out the entire room or maybe before making a Down payment for the space.

Communications

Architect Elmer: Telephone lines, private automatic branch exchange

(PABX) lines or Cable lines will also be a great help for the shop. Alternatives can be a cellular network. Look for solid signals and available Internet providers.

Finally, it is always good to understand and be guided by a professional. Mistakes may be costly, including delays in launching a business. The trial and error of being a know-all or saving a few amounts may create more damage.  In choosing an architect, including the contractor, make sure to do a background check. Ask for referrals and know the area of expertise.

Time is always of the essence.

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You may contact Armando “Butz” Bartolome for questions and more information.

By email: [email protected]

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